What is the challenge

The project addresses the growing humanitarian challenge of inadequate disaster preparedness and evacuation management in Latin America and the Caribbean, a region facing increasing climate-related hazards such as hurricanes and floods.

Limited real-time information, fragmented data systems, and weak crossborder coordination result in delayed decisions, inefficient evacuations, and significant human impacts. Those most affected are at risk communities, national and regional disaster management authorities, humanitarian responders, and marginalized groups who often have reduced access to timely and accessible evacuation information.

This challenge matters deeply in the regional context because millions of disaster induced displacements occur each year, and recent events have demonstrated how gaps in information and coordination exacerbate the humanitarian consequences. Strengthening anticipatory action and providing a reliable, dynamic preparedness tool is therefore essential to reduce risk, protect lives, and improve emergency decision-making across the region.

What is innovative about the project

The project transforms an existing static prototype into a dynamic, real-time regional pre-evacuation mechanism. It integrates advanced technologies such as Earth observation data, AI-driven impact assessments, dynamic mapping, and forecasting models. It differs from existing tools by connecting directly to early warning systems, enabling automated alerts, and allowing evacuation centers to publish real-time needs that can be matched with private sector and humanitarian partners.

The innovation also lies in its governance model. Governments, civil society, communities, and private sector actors co-design the platform to ensure technical robustness, local relevance, and interoperability across national and regional systems. This model strengthens both ownership and long-term sustainability.

What are the expected outcomes

During the project period, the aim is to transform the current prototype into a fully functional, user‑tested Pre‑Evacuation Platform. The system will integrate advanced technologies, standardised data processes, and real-time operational features. A country-level pilot will be conducted in collaboration with authorities, communities, humanitarian actors, and private sector partners to validate the model.

In the longer term, the project aims to shift disaster management in Latin America and the Caribbean from reactive response to anticipatory action. By embedding a regional pre-evacuation mechanism within national and regional systems, the initiative seeks to improve access to accurate information, strengthen coordination, and reduce loss of life, displacement, and operational inefficiencies across the region.

Who are the project partners

The project is led by International Organization for Migration, in partnership with the Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction and Terram Pacis.

The consortium combines technical development, data governance, and community-driven design. Additional support is provided by partners including Esri, Microsoft, NASA, UN agencies, regional disaster management bodies, and technical institutions contributing data, forecasting expertise, and coordination support.