Preventing and mitigating natural disasters: working together for a safer world

One of the major goals of WMO, NMHSs, and their systems, programmes and activities and their partners in disaster-prevention and mitigation communities is to reduce the number of deaths, injuries and damage caused by severe weather, climate and water events. They give individuals, decision makers and other partners the information they need for awareness building, planning, preparedness and, when necessary, for recovery and rehabilitation efforts.

This year, WMO would like to propose a different story from the ones so often making the headlines-one in which the human element takes centre stage. It is a story of confidence, planning, empowerment, positive action and hope. It is reflected in this booklet, dedicated to make disaster mitigation a reality. The contents of this booklet therefore include information on national action plans for coping with natural hazards, planning and preparation for different timescales, planning for environmental emergencies and climate change, and finally preparedness and saving lives.