Water for Development: The Utility of Precipitation and Streamflow Forecasts in Sectoral Decision-making

In many developing countries urban and rural water resources are intrinsically connected to energy and agriculture/food security. In addition to obvious water needs such as potable supplies and wastewater management, proper water supply management is critical for the development of productive, economically strong, healthy communities. Season-ahead forecasts of precipitation and streamflow for rain-fed agriculture and hydropower management, respectively, can lead toward improved decision-making and protect food and energy production, which provide a multitude of external benefits. This, however, requires efforts beyond providing forecasts; sectoral requirements are often diverse and unique, thus forecasts need to be tailored if they are expected to be applied. Examples will be drawn from work in Ethiopia, drawing on strategic development plans in water, energy, and agriculture.