Going forward, linking the early warning system to the needs of end users in various economic sectors can thus help make the case for sustainable funding for early warning. For generation, the priority should be to improve data gathering on hazards, exposure and vulnerability, and to develop hazard and risk maps at smaller scales that can guide local efforts at risk reduction and preparedness. There is also a lack of regional-level multi-hazard risk maps including for transboundary hazards. The production of such maps should not however be seen as one-off efforts but rather as continual processes to understand the dynamic nature of hazards and vulnerabilities. For this purpose and to ensure local ownership it is vital to involve local communities in gathering data. It is thus essential to bridge the gaps between scientists and disaster managers.