Disaster occurrences, including those resulting from tornadoes, heat, flooding and wind events result in staggering economic losses, deaths and injuries. With increasing urban populations across the globe, more people are vulnerable to these types of events each year. According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), natural disasters affected an average of 200 million people and claimed 62,000 lives annually during the 1990s. And in the period 2000-2011, the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, reports 1.1 million people were killed.
Though often known for its cold weather, Wisconsin is no stranger to tornadoes, wind and other severe weather events, including extreme heat.
Early warning systems are critical. The science research community continues a pivotal role in providing specialized expertise to assist governments and communities in developing early warning systems.
Countries with strong national warning systems generally have strong public information campaigns. In Wisconsin, and across the United States, people are more likely to pay attention to warnings when they have reliable information about their risks.
Check out the new exhibit in the corridor just outside the Library.