In Kamali, however, the early warning system worked, vulnerable people were alerted and brought to safety and no casualties were recorded. Filling these will require substantial additional investment, particularly at the local level to cover the ‘last mile’ - though it could just as well be called the ‘first mile’, given the importance of reaching the most vulnerable people who are usually at the forefront of any disaster. National authorities had accurately forecast this typhoon, and the accompanying seven-metre high storm surge, several days in advance.9 Nevertheless at least 6,300 people were killed, mostly by the storm surge. Subsequent research pointed to shortcomings at the ‘last mile’, including gaps in risk awareness, preparedness and communication.