Disaster Risk Management

From tropical cyclones in Central America to drought in Kenya and floods in Europe, weather and climate scientists have collaborated with organisations around the world to reduce the impact of natural hazards on vulnerable populations. Improving the skill, quality and relevance of weather and climate information is fundamental to strengthening our understanding of extreme events and how to prepare for them.

Featured Case Studies

Robust rainfall monitoring is helping to mitigate climate-related risks in African countries

Researchers at Reading have developed the TAMSAT (Tropical Applications of Meteorology using SATellite data) satellite-based rainfall estimation and drought forecasting system. TAMSAT-based drought risk management initiatives support millions of Africa’s poorest farmers. Fundamental to this has been TAMSAT’s high quality data and products, alongside a deep engagement with Africa’s climate service providers. Read More >

Key Researchers: Emily Black, Ross Maidment, Vicky Boult etc etc

Developing flood forecasts for improved early warning and early action

Researchers in the Water@Reading hydrology research group work in partnership with ECMWF and the European Commission to contribute to the development of both the European and Global Flood Awareness Systems (EFAS and GloFAS).  Through ongoing collaborations with the humanitarian sector, in particular with the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, researchers have strengthened the use of flood forecasts within the humanitarian sector. Read More >

Key Researchers: Liz Stephens, Hannah Cloke, Jess Neumann,

Assessing the risks of extreme storms

Researchers in the University of Reading’s Meteorology Department have pioneered the use of climate modelling and storm tracking to support evidence-based storm risk assessment in industry. Their work has led to the use of climate model simulations and the development of storm-tracking tools to assess wind and wave risk from extreme storms. Read More >

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