Requisites for a Drought Watch System

An effective response to drought hazard depends on an early warning system able to provide timely and reliable information about the hydrometeorological events and water supply conditions. A review of some of the existing drought monitoring systems is presented. Also, an analysis of the institutional and technical aspects of the hydrometeorological networks and of the agencies responsible for drought management in selected Mediterranean countries is carried out. Finally, the role and the basic requisites of a drought watch system network for Mediterranean regions are discussed.