It appears increasingly likely that an el Nino-related weather system is developing over the southern Pacific Ocean during the latter half of 2023.  This is likely to bring drier that normal conditions for the Southwest Pacific islands, with increasing likelihood of drought and bushfires along the eastern seaboard of Australia.  The period July-October 2023 is therefore an ideal time for involved stakeholders, whether these be emergency services; government departments at all levels of governance; NGOs; and community groups, to develop appropriate risk reduction initiatives, particularly mitigation and preparation. In a number of cases this may require customised training for involved staff and volunteers.

TorqAid has a rich history and experience of both PDRM field work and training throughout both the Southwest Pacific and Australia.  It stands ready to provided needed targetted training for stakeholders should this be requested.  Enclosed is a short paper outlining TorqAid’s PDRM field experience and training in the above mentioned geographical regions, as well as options of training which can be offered.

From the 24 July through to the end of November 2023 an online, accredited PDRM program is being facilitated by TorqAid.  A number of the topics covered are particularly relevent to this el Nino-related situation, these including Topics 1 & 4 (Key DRM Diagrams, Issues and Case Studies), Topics 5 & 6 (Risk Management), and Topic 10 (Climate Change).  Follow the link below for this online PDRM program.

Reverting back to risk reduction initiatives (particularly mitogation and preparation), the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) diagram in the enclosed article ‘A DRM Diagrammatic Framework’, gives some useful guidance on this.

Finally, feel free to contact me on pipercm@iprimus.com.au if you’d like a jpeg copy of the map illustrating the Southeasterly Trade Winds and the ‘Ring of Fire’ in the Southwest Pacific.