Oman marks World Meteorological Day
Muscat – Oman joined the global community in observing World Meteorological Day on March 23, commemorating the establishment of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1950.
This year's theme, 'Closing the Early Warning Gap Together', highlights the need to strengthen early warning systems to mitigate the impact of tropical cyclones, severe storms, and floods.
The WMO recently confirmed that 2024 was the hottest year on record, underscoring the urgency of climate resilience as extreme weather events become more frequent.
WMO Secretary-General Professor Celeste Saulo emphasised the organisation's role in global weather forecasting. 'Over the past 75 years, we have contributed billions of dollars to the global economy, prevented billions more in economic losses from weather, climate, and water-related risks and saved hundreds of thousands of lives,' she said.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for accelerating the 'Early Warnings for All' initiative, which aims to ensure that every community worldwide is covered by an early warning system by 2027.
The next phase will focus on expanding coverage beyond the initial 30 countries to include more vulnerable nations, while strengthening partnerships with donors, development banks, and climate funds.
Oman has been an active member of the WMO since 1975, working closely with the organisation and regional centres to enhance its forecasting and monitoring capabilities.
The country established the National Multi-Hazard Early Warning Centre in 2004. As the first of its kind in the region, the centre provides real-time alerts for natural hazards, including tsunamis, tropical cyclones, and flash floods.
With 80 integrated meteorological stations across the country, supported by marine and weather radar systems, satellite data, and advanced forecasting models, Oman ensures timely and accurate warnings. Alerts are disseminated through multiple channels, including traditional media, social media platforms, and mobile apps.
The centre also plays a key role in supporting government agencies, emergency responders, and the private sector with critical weather updates.
During Cyclone Shaheen, Oman's early warning systems proved effective, with timely alerts and continuous updates helping to minimise human and material losses.
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