Leribe: The Disaster Management Authority (DMA), in collaboration with the Lesotho Meteorological Services (LMS), is conducting a pivotal five-day Sectoral and Sub-National Workshop. This initiative aims to develop and validate forecasting and early action products to enhance Anticipatory Action and Disaster Risk Management in the region.

According to African Press Organization, the workshop has successfully gathered key stakeholders, technical experts, and district sector representatives. Public Relations Officer in the District Administrators Office in Leribe, Mr. Rasebilo Maqelepo, emphasized the workshop's significance in tackling climate change effects. He highlighted that the action plan's development would be instrumental in preparing communities to effectively handle climate-related challenges.

DMA Director of Emergencies and Response, Mr. Retselisitsoe Molefe, underscored the necessity of proactive planning and mitigation strategies, noting that reactive responses tend to be more costly and less timely.

Mr. Moahloli Ntele, LMS Head of Research and Innovation Development and Action First Lesotho Core Lead, explained that the workshop's objectives include the joint development and validation of Impact-Based Forecasting (IBF) products and the strengthening of operational thresholds. Participants are contributing their scientific and forecasting expertise, disaster risk management knowledge, and insights from both sectoral and community perspectives.

Mr. Rethabile Mphahama, an LMS Weather Forecaster, identified the primary hazards in Lesotho, such as heavy rainfall, flash floods, river flooding, drought, severe thunderstorms, hailstorms, strong winds, and frost. Key functions of the workshop involve coordination with districts and local authorities, disaster preparedness, response, and contingency planning.

Mr. Mphahama further elaborated that LMS communicates warnings based on forecast thresholds, expected intensity, and duration of hazards. These forecasts and warnings are disseminated to relevant government and emergency response units through various channels, including radio, television, social media, websites, and district and community structures.