Launch of WMO Flood Forecasting and Warning Community of Practice

The WMO Standing Committee on Hydrology (SC-Hyd) and the Global Water Partnership (GWP) launched the Flood Forecasting and Warning Community of Practice on 13 October, a dedicated platform for professionals working across hydrology, meteorology, disaster risk reduction, and water management. It facilitates the exchange of knowledge, operational experience, tools, share case studies, operational insights and lessons learned to enhance flood early warning systems—ultimately helping countries deliver timely, actionable information to communities at risk. The launch highlighted success stories and learning opportunities that embody the vision for this new Community of Practice.

A person in a blue shirt stands near a litter-strewn riverbank, with trees, scattered trash, and cloudy skies in the background.

Four country experiences presented illustrated how flood early warning systems are evolving in diverse hydrological environments:

Pakistan shared lessons from recent monsoon seasons, emphasizing the need for real-time monitoring networks and cross-agency operational coordination
Niger showcased progress in regional flood management along the Niger River, demonstrating the value of harmonized data and basin-level collaboration
China highlighted advancements in data automation and the role of WMO Regional Training Centres in strengthening technical capacity
South Africa presented its work on impact-based forecasting, underscoring how clear communication and community engagement can improve response outcomes.

The WMO Secretariat shared examples of Water at the Heart of Climate Action (WHCA) project and CREWS Initiatives where stakeholders could benefit from Community of Practice. The Flood Forecasting Framework (FFF), an open-source, modular approach designed to enhance interoperability and long-term sustainability of flood forecasting systems, was also presented. The FFF aims to enable National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) to adopt flexible tools suited to their hydrological contexts while integrating seamlessly with broader early warning services.

A group of people sit and stand around a table, collaborating and working on laptops during a business meeting or workshop.

The Community of Practice, which now has 138 members and counting, provides access to information related to hydrological modelling and forecasting services, to WMO’s technical guidance on hydrometeorological hazards, and to pathways for countries to strengthen institutional capacity, data management and operational readiness. Open dialogue and a spirit of collaboration between practitioners and forecasters will guide the continuous development of the Community of Practice.

The launch of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Community of Practice marks a significant milestone in global efforts to reduce the impacts of floods. By creating an active, collaborative platform, WMO and GWP are promoting knowledge exchange, driving innovation, and strengthening capacity across the flood forecasting value chain. As climate change continues to alter hydrological patterns, this Community of Practice will strengthen capacity development and peer-to-peer learning, eventually supporting the global ambition of Early Warnings for All.

The participation of over 300 representatives from NMHSs, research institutions, river basin authorities, and development partner from 60 countries in the inaugural session demonstrated the strong global demand for a coordinated approach to flood forecasting.

Click here to learn more and join the Community of Practice.