Water resource monitoring and management
The increasing frequency and severity of floods and droughts has required a shift from reactive crisis management to proactive, science-driven solutions. Water-related hazards threaten lives, undermine economies, food security, and sustainable development and require an integrated approach that strengthens resilience and ensures communities can anticipate, adapt and recover from extreme events.
A World Bank report in 2021 found that floods and droughts affected approximately three billion people over the two previous decades, leading to significant human suffering and financial losses. In the United States, floods and droughts account for more than 20% of the economic losses caused by extreme weather events each year (NASA JPL, 2023)1. From 2011 to 2020, the U.S. experienced nine major droughts, each causing at least $1 billion in damages (Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, 2023)2. In Europe, weather- and climate-related extremes resulted in economic losses estimated at €738 billion between 1980 and 2023 (European Environment Agency, 2023)3.
WMO plays a key role in advancing integrated flood and drought management, promoting solutions that combine cutting-edge technology, improved forecasting, nature-based approaches, and strengthened governance. The Associated Programme on Flood Management (APFM) and the Integrated Drought Management Programme (IDMP) provide countries with tools and strategies to reduce risks, enhance preparedness, and protect vital water resources.
Strengthening water monitoring networks, improving data-sharing, and applying advanced hydrological modeling allow for better prediction and early action. Coordinated efforts at local, national and transboundary levels ensure that water management strategies are sustainable, equitable and effective in reducing disaster risks.
Through science-based solutions and strategic partnerships, WMO continues to support countries in building resilience against water extremes, ensuring that communities and economies can thrive in the face of increasing climate challenges.
