Projects

Enhancing weather forecasting and early warning systems in Vietnam

Working for the World Bank, we partnered with KISTERS to strengthen Vietnam’s weather forecasting and early warning capabilities, supporting better decision making during severe weather events.

Flood risks and the need for effective forecasting

Vietnam faces significant challenges from flooding, particularly during the monsoon season and tropical cyclones. These events disrupt communities, damage infrastructure, and result in substantial economic losses. The World Bank ranks Vietnam among the countries most at risk from climate change, with extensive exposure to fluvial, pluvial and coastal flooding. Low-lying areas, such as the Mekong Delta, are especially vulnerable due to their limited elevation above sea level. Effective forecasting and early warning systems are critical for mitigating these impacts.

Challenges in current forecasting systems

To address these challenges, the Vietnam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration (VNMHA) has developed a range of modelling tools and techniques for coastal and flood forecasting. However, manual processes for data acquisition and model preparation were time-intensive and prone to inefficiencies. Computational resources were also limited to local machines, making result-sharing challenging and reliant on specific individuals.

To meet the increasing demand for reliable and timely forecasts, there was a need for a systematic and automated approach to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and improve forecasting accuracy.

What did we do?

We worked closely with VNHMA to create a client-server-based forecasting system using the Delft-FEWS platform, a globally recognised solution for national forecasting agencies.

Key contributions included:

  • System integration: Hydrological and coastal models were integrated into the Delft-FEWS platform, incorporating data from ground-based river and rainfall observations, satellite rainfall estimates, and numerical weather prediction models.
  • Automation of forecasting workflows: Routine tasks such as data acquisition, processing, and sharing were automated, streamlining workflows and reducing manual intervention.
  • Supercomputer integration: The system was connected to a high-performance Cray supercomputer, enabling significantly faster run times and parallel ensemble forecasting, which improves the accuracy and efficiency of predictions.
  • Customised user interface: A tailored interface was developed to meet the needs of forecasters, providing a consistent and user-friendly experience across all models.

Collaboration and capacity building

The success of the project was supported by close collaboration with key partners:

  • KISTERS: Provided the Water Information System (WISKI), enabling the unification of hydro-meteorological data from both automatic and manual stations.
  • HarmonySoft: A Hà i-based company, HarmonySoft worked with JBA to deliver bespoke training programmes for VNHMA staff to effectively operate and maintain the new system.

Modernised and efficient forecasting

The enhanced system provides VNHMA with a platform for delivering robust and timely forecasts. Key benefits include:

  • Improved efficiency: Automation enables forecasters to focus on interpreting and improving models rather than performing administrative tasks.
  • Resilience and scalability: The system’s architecture is robust and can scale to meet future demands.
  • Enhanced collaboration: Centralised data and streamlined workflows promote greater collaboration among forecasters.
  • Global standards: Adopting the Delft-FEWS platform places VNHMA alongside leading forecasting agencies worldwide.

Transforming early warning systems globally

This project demonstrates how modern forecasting technology and strong partnerships can deliver efficiency gains for national agencies. By streamlining processes, the work completed for VNHMA offers a scalable model for other countries looking to enhance their early warning systems and build resilience to climate risks.

To learn more about our work in Vietnam, contact our team.

Location:

Vietnam

Client:

The World Bank

Expertise:

Hazard and risk modelling
Forecasting and early warning
Training and capacity building

Delivered By:

JBA Consulting

Partners & Collaborators:

Vietnam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration
KISTERS
HarmonySoft
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