The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations (UN) responsible for promoting international cooperation in meteorology, climatology, hydrology, and related fields. Established in 1950, the WMO coordinates and facilitates the activities of its member countries, which currently stand at 193, in order to improve the understanding and prediction of weather, climate, and water conditions globally.
As the primary international body promoting meteorology, the WMO fosters collaboration among national meteorological and hydrological services, research institutes, and other relevant organizations worldwide. The organization provides a platform for sharing expertise, data, and technological advancements in these fields, with the aim of enhancing weather and climate services to protect life, property, and the environment.
The WMO is responsible for developing and maintaining international meteorological standards and practices, ensuring the quality and compatibility of meteorological observations, and promoting the use of standardized meteorological instruments and terminology. It also sets guidelines for the exchange and dissemination of weather and climate information and issues international warnings and advisories for severe weather events and natural disasters.
In addition, the WMO conducts research programs, capacity-building activities, and awareness campaigns to address emerging challenges related to climate change, water resources management, and environmental sustainability. Through its global initiatives, the WMO contributes to mitigating the impacts of hazardous meteorological phenomena, improving weather forecasts, supporting climate adaptation strategies, and enhancing overall scientific understanding of the Earth's atmosphere and climate system.
