Participatory engagement and lived experiences of early warning and preparedness in two rural communities in Kerala, South India

People-centered, inclusive Early Warning Systems (EWS) that inspire the adoption of early, preemptive protective actions are essential components for protecting lives, assets, and livelihoods against impending hazards. However, warnings often fail to reach rural populations or prompt preparedness. This study examines how co-production through Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) techniques can strengthen people-centered EWS at the community level. Empirical research was conducted in two coastal communities in Kerala, India, affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami and the 2018 floods, engaging 159 participants with PRA methods. This included key informant interviews, storytelling, focus group discussions, and participatory mapping. Results revealed barriers to risk communication, shelter, livelihood instability, and response capacities that constrain last-mile connectivity. The majority of respondents reported being unprepared for evacuation. At the same time, more than half of the participants were satisfied with sheltering, most of whom stayed with other families because designated shelters were inadequate. However, the findings also highlighted that enabling factors, such as trusted communication channels and inclusive coordination mechanisms, as well as gender-sensitive early action, could be mobilized to improve EWS. The study recommends co-production through PRA as an approach to document and empower lived experiences in the context of early warning and response preparedness for people-centered DRR. • Co-producing a list of barriers and enablers of early warning within rural communities using PRA techniques. • Acknowledging the lived experiences across generations in receiving and acting upon hazard warnings. • Identifying last-mile gaps in risk communication, temporary shelter access and choice, and evacuation methods. • Proposing community-based actions to make early warning inclusive and effective.