How wet is wet? Using meteorological information to drive disaster logistics preparedness

Disaster logistics preparedness has become a significant issue in humanitarian operations and supply chain management not only to improve disaster response but also to mitigate and reduce disaster risk. In particular, many humanitarian organisations deal with inherent uncertainty embedded in recurring natural hazards. This study examines how aid organisations enact the practice of recurrent seasonal logistic preparedness with meteorological forecast information. The study draws on findings from a case study of humanitarian organisations in which recurring seasonal climate extremes are present. By analysing the organisations’ dynamic engagements with climate forecast information for their seasonal logistic preparedness, this study identifies recognisable patterns of actions enacting resource mobilisation logics, mainly simplification and actualisation, hence enables better understanding of the mechanisms behind the logistics preparedness for seasonal climate variability. While the development of meteorological capacity to deliver reliable information and services on weather is extremely important, this study argues that it is also important to understand how organisations that manage extreme weather events and associated disaster risks utilise weather-related information.