Drought Early Warning System
Advanced system for drought prediction and water resource management
Description
The Advanced Drought Early Warning System – a joint initiative of Uzhydromet and the UNDP in Uzbekistan – is designed to bolster the climate resilience of Karakalpakstan's drought-affected farming communities by providing early warnings of the possibility of low water and drought in the region. The system allows for the forecasting of available water resources in the current year in the upper reaches of the mountain rivers of Uzbekistan, located in the zone of natural flow formation, as well as in the lower reaches of the Amu Darya River – a zone known for its intensive water use for various purposes, primarily for the irrigation of agricultural lands. Predictions of future water levels in the lower reaches of the Amu Darya River are carried out for different periods – in January, February and March.
Technology
The system makes use of remote sensing technologies and an online app to gather and disseminate agri-environmental and weather data. Automated meteorological stations and Doppler profilographs provide real-time data on water levels and flow, which are essential for early drought prediction and water management in the Amu Darya River basin.
Target
The primary users of the system are government agencies and local farming communities in Uzbekistan. The system aims to benefit smallholder farmers in Karakalpakstan by providing vital information supporting their agricultural planning and water management.
Business model
Access to the system is free. The technology has been developed with financing from the Adaptation Fund.
Impact
The system aims to significantly improve the drought preparedness and climate resilience of the farming communities in Karakalpakstan. It supports better water use planning in agriculture, contributing to sustainable water management and a reduced vulnerability to climate-induced water scarcity.
Partners
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP); Adaptation Fund, Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Uzbekistan
Four Betters
Better environment
