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Services from the Norwegian Meteorological Institutes can reduce the effects of disasters – both natural and man-made

Jørgen Saltbones, Ole Nielsen
Norwegian Meteorological Institute (DNMI), PO Box 43, Blindern, 0313 Oslo, Norway

Abstract:
The cornerstone in these services are output from Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models: Up to 48 hours from DNMI’s own NWP model (High Resolution Limited Area Model; HIRLAM) – and access to other’s for longer forecasts; f. ex. ECMWF and UK Met. Off.

Taylor-made ‘tools’ for different disaster situations have been developed.

Links have been set up for the exchange and use of these specialised meteorological products in decision-making processes. DNMI’s personnel often take part in this process, to explain the significance of the meteorological information for the development of the disaster situation and its management.

Examples will be given:

  • Extreme Weather -> Regional State of Emergency
  • Strong precipitation & snow melt -> Flood warnings
  • Strong wind & precipitation in winter-time -> Communication problems (traffic in air, at sea, with rails and roads)
  • Strong wind & precipitation in winter-time -> Avalanches
  • Strong Lows -> High tides
  • Dry conditions -> Forest fires
  • Accidents with oil-related activities -> Oil spill, marine pollution
  • Nuclear accidents -> Serving the needs of the ‘Norwegian Nuclear Preparedness Organization’