As a result, a worldwide earthquake warning network is already in operation and has helped to prepare for (and thus lessen) the vast destruction that might otherwise have been totally unexpected.

With related technology of wireless AD hoc network to organize the traditional air defense warning network, such shortcomings as the poor network coverage and the poor survivability can be overcome.

After the 1985 Ethiopian famine America's aid agency set up a famine Early warning Systems Network (FEWS Net) to give warning of disasters.