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The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations

The purposes ofWMO are: EXECUTIVE COUNCIL To facilitate worldwide cooperation in the estab­ President j.W. Zillman (Australia) First Vice-President j.-P. Beysson () lishment of networks of stations for the making of Second Vice-President A.M. Noorian meteorological observations as well as hydro­ (Islamic Republic of Iran) logical and other geophysical observations related Third Vice-President Y. Salahu (Nigeria) to , and to promote the establishment Ex officio members of the Executive Council and maintenance of centres charged with the (presidents of regional associations) Africa (Region I) M.S. Mhita provision of meteorological and related services; (United Republic of Tanzania) To promote the establishment and maintenance Asia (Region II) A.M.H. !sa (Ba hrain) (acting) of systems for the rapid exchange of meteorologi­ South America (Region Ill) N. Salazar Delgado (Ecuador) cal and related information; North and Central America (Region IV) A.). Dania To promote standardization of meteorological (Netherlands Antilles and Aruba) and related observations and to ensure the uni­ South-West Pacific (Region V) R. Sri Diharto (Indonesia) (acting) form publication of observations and ; Europe (Region VI) F. Quintas Ribeiro (Portugal) (acting) To further the application of meteorology to avia­ Elected members of the Executive Council tion, shipping, problems, agriculture and Z. Alperson (Israel) N. AI-Shalabi (Syrian Arab Republic) (acting) other human activities; A. C. Vaz de Athayde (Brazil) (acting) To promote activities in operational A.l. Bedritsky (Russian Federation) a_nd to further close cooperation between F. Camargo Duque (Venezuela) Meteorological and Hydrological Services; A. Diouri (Morocco) M.D. Everell () (acting) To encourage research and training in meteor­ P.D. Ewins (United Kingdom) ology and, as appropriate, in related fields, and to U. Gartner (Germany) assist in coordinating the international aspects of A. )aline (Mexico) R.R. Kelkar (India) such research and training. j.J. Kelly ( of America) · The World Meteorological Congress . K. Konare (Mali) H. Mbifngwen Bongmum (Cameroon) (acting) is the supreme body of the Organization. It brings j.R. Mukabana (Kenya) (acting) together delegates of all Members once every fom:-""""' " A. Ndiaye (Senegal) (acting) years to determine general policies for the fulfilment H.H. Oliva (Chile) (acting) of the purposes of the Organization. - L.P. Prahm (Denmark) R. Prasad (Fiji) The Executive Council Qi.J1 Dahe (Chi.J1a) (acting) is composed of 36 directors of national Meteoro- G.K. Ramothwa (Botswana) G.C. Schulze (South Africa) . logical or.Hydrometeorological Services serving in an T. Sutherland (British Caribbean Territories) individual capacity; it meets at least once a year to N.l. Tawfiq (Saudi Arabia) supervise the programmes approved by Congress. K. Yamamoto (Japan) (acting) ). Zielinski (Poland) The six regional associations PRESIDENTS OF TECHNICAL COMMISSIONS are each composed of Members whose task it is to Aeronautical Meteorology: N.Gordon coordinate meteorological and related activities with­ Agricultural Meteorology: R.P.Motha in their respective Regions. Atmospheric : A. Eliassen Basic Systems: G. Love The eight technical commissions Cli.Jnatology: Y. Boodhoo are composed of experts designated by Members and Hydrology: D. G. Rutashobya are responsible for studying meteorological and Instruments and Methods of Observation: S.K. Srivastava hydrological operational systems, applications and and Marine ). Guddal and S. Narayanan research. Meteorology: The Secretariat of the Organization is located at 7bis, avenue de la Paix, Geneva, Switzerland. WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION Secretary-General G.O.P. 0 BASI I Deputy Secretary-General M. jARRAUD ~ - · . ~ Assistant Secretary-General YAN Hong \ ~-~~ jg ~~ Vol. 50 No. 4 October 2001

The official journal of the World Meteorological Organization Iffi lUJJLJLIETTIN

Subscrietion rates: In this issue ...... 276 Surface mail The Bu lletin interviews: 1 year: SFR 60 2 years: SFR 110 Morley K. Thomas ...... 277 3 years: SFR 145 Human and economic impacts of events in 2000, Airmail by S.G. Cornford ...... 284 1 year: SFR 85 2 years: SFR 150 Global crop production review, 2000 ...... 300 3 years: SFR 195 World Weather on the Web, by C.Y. Lam ...... 303 Published quarterly Uanuary, April , Weather on the Web, by J. Fenix ...... 306 July, October) in English , French , Internet applications in the Kenya Meteorological Department, Russian and Spanish editions. by S. Machua, P. Mutai and P. Ambenje ...... 311 Web-based training in meteorology: past and future, Remi ttances and all correspondence by C. Duncan ...... 313 about the WMO Bulletin should be Impact of the Internet and other information technology addressed to the Secretory-Gene ral. advances on research, by N.S. Soreide ...... 316 E-met services in Singapore, by C.L. Wong ...... 321 Opinions expressed in signed articles or in World Meteorological and World Water Day 200 I ...... 324 advertisements appearing in the WMO WMO Executive Council-Fifty-third session ...... 326 Bulletin are the author's or advertiser's Regional Association IV(North and Central America)- opinions and do not necessarily reflect thirteenth session ...... 335 those ofWMO. Th e mention of specific companies or products in articles or Third Technical Conference on Management of Meteorological advertisements does not imply that they and Hydrological Services in Regional Association V are endorsed or recommended by WMO (South-West Pacific) ...... 337 in preference to others ofa similar nature WMO Programme news which are 110t mentioned or advertised. World Weather Watch Programme ...... 339 Extracts from unsigned (or initialled) Instruments and Methods of Observation Programme ...... 341 articles in the journal may be reproduced Tropical Programme ...... 342 provided the customary acknowledge- mentis made. Requests to publish signed World Climate Programme ...... 343 articles (in part or in whole) should be World Climate Data and Monitoring Programme ...... 343 addressed to the Edito1: Atmospheric Research and Environment Programme ...... 344 Public Weather Services Programme ...... 346 World Meteorological Organization Agricultural Meteorology Programme ...... 347 Case postale 2300, CH -121 1 Geneva 2, Hydrology and Water Resources Programme ...... 349 Switzerland Education and Training Programme ...... 353 Tel.: (+4 1. 22) 730.84.78 Fax: (+41.22) 730.80.24 Technical Cooperation Programme ...... 354 e-mail: [email protected] In the Regions ...... 356 News and notes ...... 358 The table of contents and a summary of News from the Secretariat ...... 359 the feature art icles in the Bulletin are Obituary ...... 364 posted on the WMO homepage: Reviews ...... 364 http://www.wmo.ch (Hot topics) of coming events ...... 370 Acting Editor: W. Degefu Members of the World Meteorological Organization ...... 3 71 Associate Editor: judith C. C. TORRES Index for WMO Bulletin 50 (2001) ...... 372 I I I I lloo rt!JJf1~ f1~~oorg "The Internet for meteorology"

This issue's interviewee, Morley Thomas, started in enhance or establish Internet links with the public. These meteorology 60 years ago. Like many others of his links will have a positive effect as users come to generation, he became a with the Air Force recognize the NMHS as the primmy source of timely to meet aviation requirements during World Wa r II­ and reliable information and forecasts. what was then known as a metman. Earlier this yem; his book Met men in Wartime: Meteorology in Canada The Internet has radically transformed operations of 1939-1945 was published. the Kenya Meteorological Department and the Monitoring Centre which it hosts. By increasing the S.G. Cornford reviews the impacts and consequences of amount and rate of data flow, crucial and timely weather around the world in 2000, based principally on services and products are now freely available to users. the reports submitted by WMO Member countries­ Despite practical and financial problems, the Internet is this ye m; a total of 72, comprising some 70 per cent of undoubtedly the way forward for African meteorology. the world's population. Overall, the impact seems less marked than in the previous two years, especially for The Internet has re-invented training in the field of weather-related fatalities. meteorology and related sciences in terms of diversit)\ depth and scope ofsubject area, and pedagogical 276 A review ofagricultural production in 2000 compared with approach. Never has so much up-to-date material been that in 1999, prepared by the US Department ofAgri­ available for those who wish to learn. Charles Duncan culture, assesses the impact of weather events on major describes some of the existing possibilities and a crops worldwide at crucial stages in their growth cycle. tantalising glimpse offuture ones.

With much weather information currently available on Emerging inforrnation technologies, together with the Web from unofficial and questionable sources, there increased computing and decreased costs, have is a need for a collective official voice to present authentic revolutionized all aspects of climate research-and their weather information. The NMS of Hong Kong, China, potential is far from beingfully realized. Nancy Soreide has been charged by the WMO Commission for Basic describes what has already been achieved and what the Systems with the task of developing and hosting future may hold. experimental Websites focusing on information and world city forecasts for its area. C. Z Wong Chin Ling presents the electronic services Lam describes this successful pilot project. Success in available from the Meteo rological Service Singapore, grouping such NMS Websites under the auspices of which have proved profitable in terms of customer WMO will lead to a dynamic, consolidated World satisfaction and cost-efficiency of operations. Such Weather Website, which will be of mutual benefit to the services, enhanced by evolving technology and an world at large and the meteorological community. innovative approach, will provide NMHSs with the means to meet future challenges. !im Fe nix presents the increasing role of the Internet in our everyday lives and its growing importance in Some of the events and products organized to celebrate meteorology. He describes some of the popular Internet World Meteorological Day and \1\ for/d Water Day 2001, services currently provided by the US National Weather as reported by Member countries, and those at Service and looks into the future. His article gives many Headquarters, are summarized in our closing feature useful explanations and hints to NMHSs wishing to article.

Cover: EUMETSAT infrared image at 0600 TU on 30 October 2000 and, above it, the contours of a surface with a constant of . The image is one frame of a computer1Jenerated onimohon from the ECMWF covering the severe which affected several countries in northern Europe on 29·30 October 2000 and depicts a detailed atmospheric process by a model devised for general forecasting. Strotospheric ozone-rich air is seen descending into the "" of the older low north·west of Ireland ond also in olong, curving, deep pocket tucked in behind the upper parts of the and parallel to its slope. Colours correspond to the of the air at the level of this concentration of ozone. Blue is cold and green is worm. (See the article on the sociOilconomic impacts of weather in 2000, pages 284 · 300.) '-flh~ Jff3ooaa~11i1oo r1oort~1fwr1~111~

Morley K. Thomas

Dr Taba recounts: students were required to join the Canadian Officers Morley K. Thomas was born on 19 August 1918 on a Training Corps and Morley became a sergeant in farm in Westminster Township, Middlesex County, artillery. But, in the of 1941, just before gradua­ near London, Ontario, tion, he was told of the need Canada. His mother had for mathematics and been a rural public school graduates to train as meteo­ teacher and his father was a rologists for service with the farmer,who died six weeks Royal Canadian Air Force after Morley was born, a vic­ (RCAF). Morley became one tim of the Spanish flu epi­ of the civilian meteorolo­ demic. Morley grew up with gists, or "metmen". At the his maternal grandparents, flying training schools they uncles and aunts. Education also taught meteorology to was important in the family; the student pilots and other his grandfather, John Auck­ aircrew. He joined the Mete­ land, an enterprising farmer, orological Division for train­ 277 supported his children in ing in October 1941 and sub­ continuing their education. sequently served for nearly Before he started school in four years with the RCAF. the spring of 1925, Morley The need for meteorol­ had learned to read. It was a ogists escalated rapidly and, typical rural Ontario school, by 1944, nearly 400 had been where one teacher dealt with recruited, trained and about 45 pupils. posted as civilians to RCAF In 1931, he passed the Morley K. Thomas stations. He took part in a 15 "Entrance" examinations weeks' course at the Meteo­ with honours, which qualified him to attend second­ rological Division headquarters in Toronto, and was ary school. He went to the Collegiate Institute in St. posted to a Service Flying Training School where stu­ Thomas and obtained relatively good marks, espe­ dent pilots took their advanced training and gradu­ cially in mathematics, and was active in sports. He ated with their "wings". The metmen were responsible graduated in 1936 but, with the depression still exist­ for analysing the weather maps, preparing and issuing ing he was uncertain as to what to do. He returned to weather forecasts, briefing the students and instruc­ the Collegiate for an extra year, concentrated on math­ tors before flying periods began and conducting lec­ ematics and even more sports. He was awarded two ture courses in basic meteorology to the student four-year scholarships in 1937 to attend the University pilots. of Western Ontario in London-a Leonard Foundation When the war was over, Morley requested and scholarship and a Sir Arthur Currie Memorial Scholar­ was granted a posting to the Climatological Section at ship, the latter based on both academics and athletics. the Meteorological Division headquarters in Toronto, Mathematics was the only course Morley consid­ where he arrived in October 1945. He had taken lec­ ered when he entered Western. The honours mathe­ tures in from a university professor as matics and physics programme called for a manda­ part of the meteorological training but the treatment tory first year in general and after that year he of the subject had not interested him. Unaware that chose the actuarial science option. Morley was active there even was a Climatological Section at headquar­ in several sports and was a member of the 1939 cham­ ters, he began compiling and interpreting local cli­ pionship rugby-football team . In the , he mate data from the available records. At that time, worked as a construction labourer. World War I! in most considered climatology to be a Europe began to affect all Canadians. By 1940, all male dull, boring subject and a dead-end discipline. There were only about 12 people in the Climato­ climate issue heating up, it was decided there should logical Section in late 1945 and most were employed be a separate climate unit and the Canadian Climate in the classical clerical work of processing, archiving Centre was carved from Applications and Central Ser­ and publishing national climate data. Morley started vices. Then, in 1979, when the Head of the new Cli­ establishing and developing quality-control measures mate Centre left the Service, Morley took responsibil­ which proved to be an excellent way to learn the prac­ ity for that unit. Now, in 2001, after cutbacks and tical side of climatology. This was how our intervie­ consolidation, both Central Services and the Cana­ wee of this issue started his career in climatology; a dian Climate Centre have disappeared from the scene. career which brought his name to the top of the list of In 1982, Morley was 64 years old and decided to the best climatologists. Readers will find out further retire. Jim Bruce was by then Head of AES and offered details in this interview. In the following paragraphs, to have his retirement delayed. Nevertheless, he some of the highlights of Morley's professional life retired on 31 January 1983. Retired is probably not the are mentioned. right word since, the next day, he moved downstairs For many years Morley was fortunate to work to a small office in the library and began researching with and report to Clarence Boughner, who had an the history of the Service. This had been his intent for avid interest in WMO and represented Canada in some time. CAgM as well as CC!. Boughner allowed him to In February 1983, Morley signed a legal agree­ develop and implement what might be called opera­ ment with the Service giving him access, space and tional climatology and to get into applied climatol­ typing assistance for the history work. At present, he ogy. The Climatolo gy Section, from 12 or so people in reports to the Head of the Service whenever necessary. late 1945 expanded to more than 100 within 15 years. Morley has published a considerable number of 278 Part of the new Department of Environment in 1971, articles and reports on different aspects of climate. He the Service became the Atmospheric Environment is the co-author of Climate Canada, a textbook widely Service and the Climatological Division became the used in high schools and universities. He has been or Meteorological Applications Branch. In 1971, WMO is a member of numerous national committees and Congress wen t through a similar exercise and CC! professional societies. He has an impressive list of would have been dropped as a technical commission awards bestowed on him and is a well-known figure had not Helmut Landsberg defended it strongly and in the international arena. He deserves the title of Mr Congress settled for a name change. Climate by which he is widely known. All those who have had the opportunity of knowing Morley Thomas, agree that he is kind, con­ siderate, friendly, cooper­ ative and extremely knowledgeable. This interview took place in Strathroy, Ontario, in July 2001.

H. T. - When did you obtain your M.A.? Was it in general meteorol­ ogy or inclined more to climatology? M .K. T. - When the University of Toronto and the Meteorological Divi­ Relaxing aher the third session of the Commission for Climatology in London in 1960. Morley Thomas is pictured (/eh) with sion announced the H. Thorn !USA), G. O'Mahoney (Australia), J. Maher (Australia) and C. Boughner (Canada). resumption of the m as- ters programme in Boughner retired in 1973 and after two years or physics (meteorology) in 1948, I decided to seek entry so, Morley was promoted into his job. In 1978, with the to the course. I applied and was accepted on the under- standing that I could return to climatology if I so ment with punched- card methods of handling data in wished after completing the course. the 1950s and a decade later we had over 100 people in The one-year course was intensive and highly theo­ this area of climatology. Our days of attempting to deal retical. The meteorological courses were given by Mete­ with all aspects of applied climatology ourselves were orological Service staff members while university pro­ shortening since, by 1960, we had obtained sufficient fessors contributed courses in differential equations, resources to recruit staff for new sections dealing with statistics, and climatology. I enjoyed synoptic meteorol­ , applications, and climate research. ogy with its map analysis and foreca sting. When Besides my regular work, I continued to be involved I graduated in June 1949, I was happy to return to cli­ in teaching. In 1950, I began the lecture course which matological work; by that time, punched-card methods I continued giving for two decades. David Phillips took were being introduced to meet the expanding needs of over as lecturer in climatology in 1972 but a few years government, business and industry. I was intrigued later the method of training meteorologists was enough with improving my qualifications to completing changed and the course dropped. additional courses in and climatology at I found many opportunities in the 1950s and 1960s Toronto and McGill Universities during the next two to investigate different aspects of the Canadian climate years. such as unusual periods of stormy weathe1; dry spells, About the time of my M.A. graduation in 1949 Dr warm periods in the Arctic, extreme cold, etc. Interest in Robert.F. Legget, Director of the new Division of Build­ was developing and I was asked to ing Research of the Na tional Research Council in address several professional societies on the subject. Ottawa, asked me to come fo r an interview regarding a Also, I continued collecting all the books, papers and climatologist position he was establishing. The work articles I could find on the Canadian climate, which would entail developing climate parameters for a new allowed David Phi/lips and me to publish several issues 279 National Building Code and providing advice to the of A Bibliography of Canadian Climate. construction indust1y on climate matters. Following the interview I was immediately offered the position. H. T. - When did you become Director, Meteoro­ The Meteorological Service had just introduced a logical Applications Branch and later on secondment policy under which meteorologists could be Director-General of the Central Services seconded or loaned to other government departments Directorate? to work in applied meteorology and climatology. It was M.K.T.- I became Director of the Branch in1971, agreed that a seconded position would be set up for when a major reorganization of the Service took place. building research and I won the position. Since the cli­ We moved to the new Department of the Environment mate archives were in Toronto it was decided that and changed our name to the Atmospheric Environ­ I would remain there and travel to Ottawa every fourth ment Service. The move to Environment Canada was week to confer with the building research scientists. someth ing of a coming-of-age for the Service, since we I developed methods for ca lculating design values had been a very small part of the Department of for Canadian buildings and I produced tables and 1Jm75port but now we constituted about one-quarter of maps of and loads, design for the new department. Clarence Boughner became building heating and cooling, etc. These were published Director-General of a new Central Serv Direc­ as part of the new National Building Code and were torate and I succeeded him as head of climatology. We subsequently adopted by municipalities and used by the were told, however, that we had to get rid of such an construction industry across the country. As by-prod­ old-fashioned name and we adopted the name "Meteo­ ucts of the work I made additional national climate rological Applications Branch". I became responsible for maps and, with Dr Legget's enthusiastic support, pub­ units dealing with the quality-control and archiving of lished the joint NRC/Meteorological Service Climato­ surface and upper-air data, data services and publica­ logical Atlas of Canada (1953) . tions, hydrometeorology, climate applications and data processing. H. T.- In 1953, you rejoined the Climatology As Director General of Central Services, I was also Division. Could you please describe some responsible for those Branches at headquarters which of the work you did there? provided services to govemment and the private sector M.K. T. - The requirements for climate data infonna­ and to our own Service. It was a heterogeneous mix tion in Canada had begun to increase significantly in and included meteorological applications, training, the 1950s, the count1y was prospering and government reconnaissance and forecasting. Fortunately the resources were available. We had just begun to experi- branches had excellent directors. Most meteorological training of Service employees was still done in-house by M.K. T - When I was in the building research position the Training Branch in those days, while some assis­ in 1951, Dr Legget had me appointed to the climate tance was provided to the universities where meteoro­ committee of the National Research Council's Associate logical programmes had started. The Ice Branch work Committee on the National Building Code and I served was largely supported by the Canadian Coast Guard on it periodically until the mid-1960s. During the Service. The Ice Forecast Centra l was in Ottawa and 1960s I was also appointed for two-year terms to the the aerial ice reconnaissance programme flew in the NRC Associate Committee on Soil and Snow Mechan­ Arctic in summer and along the Atlantic coast in winte1: ics and its various subcommittees. From time to time The Meteorological Applications Branch was the one I was responsible for considerable "homework", i.e. the I just described when speaking of my previous duties. preparation of reports for study by other committee The data-processing unit served the other units, as well members. as providing a data service to outside users. We were A delightful committee I served on for four years in just getting into computers but most work was still done the 1960s was one constituted to award grants to uni­ on unit record equipment in the ear0' 1970s. Within a versity professors for geographical research. At that time year or two, the Instrument Branch with its responsibil­ there was a Geographical Branch in the federal Govern­ ities for design and acquisition of the instruments used ment and the Branch funded the grants. Also in the throughout the Service was added to Centra l Services 1960s I was on Canada Agriculture's committee on agroclimatic classification, in which we dealt with the H.T- From 1979 to 1983 you were Director­ possibility of digitizing climate maps, an early attempt General of the Canadian Climate Centre. to achieve a technology that is now commonplace. As Did this new position have different I was responsible for training in the Meteorological Ser­ responsibilities or was it a continuation of 280 vice, I was a member of Tiw1sport Canada's TI·ain ing your previous duties? Council in the late 1970s. From 1979 until retirement, M.K. T -In a sense it was both. Becoming responsible I was a member of the Climate Planning Board. Late in again for climate work in the Meteorological Service my cm·ee1; as I became more involved with "in house" was like go ing home for me. The previous yem; the Ser­ Service management, my outside committee work vice Management Committee had determined that decreased but I do remember participating in extensive since climate and climatology had become so impor­ committee meetings as Environment Canada first tant, a separate unit, the Canadian Climate Centre, attempted to establish national guidelines for environ­ should be set up. I was totally in favour of this move, mental impact assessment procedures. although I was quite aware that most of the Meteorological Applications Branch would be carved from Central Services and that I would miss direct contact with the climate work. I was given the opportunity to head the new unit but declined since I had accepted wider responsibilities with the Centra l Services Directorate and did not wish to back away. Howeve1; when the Cli­ mate Centre position became available in 1979, I accepted an invitation to move to it on the understanding that I wou ld retire within five years or so. For about six months I was responsible for both Central Services and the Climate Centre but then I became free to concentrate on climate again. The Climate Centre now included Morley Thomas in Stockholm for the fourth session of CC/ in 1965 with Acodemicion M. Budyko of the USSR an active climate modelling section and an enlarged periodicals programme, so I was involved with more than I had been a decade earlie1: H. T - When was your first contact with WMO? M.K. T -I must confess that I date back to the Inter­ H. T - Let us talk about your involvement in the national J\!Ieteorological Organization! In August 1947, national committees. the Meteorological Service hosted meetings of all the technical commissions in Toronto and as a very junior staff member I was permitted to regis­ ter as an observe1: I must say that Canadian mete­ orologists have been most fortunate that par­ ticipation in IMO/ WMO activities has always been considered important to those administering the Mete­ orological Service. Three presidents of WMO technico/ commissions during the thirty·third session of the Exewffve Council ot WMO Headquarters in My first active con­ 1978: R. Clark !CHy, Canada), Morley Thomas and A. Villevieille !CAS, France) tact with the Comm is- sion for Climatology (CCL) came early in 1957 when When I began working in climatology in 1945, office I accompanied Clarence Boughner to the second ses ­ policy called for the simple provision of archived climate sion of the commission in Washington. He became data to engineers and other professionals who asked for president of CC! in 1960 and over the next eight years them. We were instructed not to assist in adapting th e I had almost daily discussions with him on WMO mat­ data for their use by creating such "derivatives" as ters. I attended the succeeding sessions at Stockholm design values or indexes. The policy was changed in the 281 and Bad Homburg, was active on the Climatic Atlas 1950s and I have great satisfaction in having pm·tici­ and Guide committees between sessions and, in 1971 pated in this development of applied climatology. and 1975, was a member of the Canadian delegation When I first trained as a meteorologist, I was to Congress. taught Little about climatology and was unaware that In April 1978, I was the Canadian principal dele­ the Meteurulogical Service even had a Climatological gate at CC/- FIJI in Geneva and expected this would be Section. One of the reasons I continued to give a course my final CC/ Session since climatological work had just in climatology to new meteorologists for 20 years was to been removed from my Central Services directorate. help send them into operational meteorology with some But a few days after the beginning of the session, dele­ knowledge and understanding of climatology. gates approached me from almost eve1y WMO Region Over the decade or so before retirement, I was one to ask me to stand. as president of the Commission. of those who actively promoted more attention to cli­ I agreed and was elected unanimously. The World Cli­ mate change. My point was that, as a government serv­ mate Conference took place and then Congress ice, we should be calling the attention of other depart­ launched the World Climate Programme, which ments and private sector interests to the possibility of brought the discipline of climatology to the fore as noth­ global warming, regardless of whether or not climate ing had ever done before. change was for rea l. And if the threat of change turned My part in developing the World Climate Pro­ out to be imaginary, then a better knowledge of climate gramme was mino1: As CC! president, I was asked to would be ve1y useful to government and commerce. It chair several ad hoc planning sessions in Geneva and to seemed that we were not getting anywhere but, as you speak about the Programme at other commission and know, climate change is now an important political regional meetings at such places as Sofia, Rome, subject in most countries Mexico City, and Guangzhou (China). But I consider my role to have been ve1y small in what has become a H. T. - You served as an expert in Nigeria. When major VI'MO Programme. was that and what did you do? M.K. T. -In 1961, the Nigerian Government asked H. T. - You have a high reputation and enjoy the the Canadian Government to assist their Meteorologi­ title of "one of the best climatologists", ca l Service in modernizing their methods of processing Could you mention some of your major climate data. The Canadian Government was willing achievements as a climatologist? to purchase and give punched-card equipment to Nige­ M.K. T. - This is an extremely flattering title since ria if there was a real need and if the Nigerians could I hardly associate myself with the "best climatologists". use modern methods of data processing. Accordingly, the same yem; I was chosen to go to that country, where wanted to eliminate it and distribute its terms of refer­ I visited several meteorological offices, discussed the ence amongst the other commissions. Some European work with meteorologists countries objected and, and technicians and fortunately, Dr Helmut observed their methods of Landsberg, president of data handling. Canada CC/, led a lobbying cam­ purchased and sent the paign to retain the Com ­ necessary equipment, mission. He and I were and a colleague went to the only se lf-avowed Nige ria to install the climatologists at that machines. Over the next Congress and we were couple of years, several successful in retaining the Nigerians came to our Commission but we lost Climatological Section in the title. Congress renamed Toronto for training. A it the Commission for the few years later, howeve1; Special Applications of because of the civil war Meteorology and Clima­ in Nige ria, we lost track tology (CoSAMC). The of this assistance pro­ word "Climatology" was gramme. On a personal added to the title only note I must confess that because of the insistence 282 during the time I was in of Dr Landsberg. It is Nigeria I discovered the interesting to note that, delightful habit of drink­ four years late1; the word ing tea early in the morn­ climatology was becom­ ing and the habit has ing important again and Asomewhat younger Morley Thomas stuck. Congress changed the title to Commission for H. T. - I recall that 1971 was a crucial year within Climatology and Applications of Meteorology the Service, while, during the WMO Con­ (CCAM). Late1; in 1983, the original title Commission gress, CCl was almost written off. Would for Climatology (CCl) was redeemed. For simplicity, you like to expand on that? I have used the CCl nomenclature when speaking of M. K. T - It is hard to realize today that in the 1960s events in the 1971 to 1983 period. there was the belief that climatology was a decadent and old-fashioned subject-despite the increasing H. T. - After your retirement in 1983 you started demand for climate data and information. In Canada, researching the history of the Service. How management consultants in our department told us has it gone so far? that we wou ld never get our proper share of resources M.K. T. -I actually begun researching and writing until we dropped the word "climatology" and adopted a about the subject as a hobby about 30 years ago. At that title that was more modern. I am ashamed to admit time there were space problems and it was suggested that we accepted this advice and with the reorganiza­ that "all that old stuff" be thrown out. The old stuff was tion in the new Department of the Environment, we the correspondence of the Toronto observatory and the named what had been the Climatological Section the Meteorological Service from 1839 to about 1928. Meteorological Applications Branch. I protested and was given a year or so to arrange its dis­ Much the same thing happened in WMO. At Sixth posal. I consulted with National Archives and found Congress in 1971, the delegates declared there was a they were interested in at least some of the material. need to rationalize the system of technical commissions History students came in the summer of 1971 to exam­ into basic and applications activities. Climatology was ine and catalogue the documents and to separate out an integral part of meteorology so a commission by that those documents that would be useful to anyone name could not be considered "basic". There were appli­ researching the history of the Service. The Archives cations commissions for agricultural, aeronautical and accepted the idea that we could temporarily keep this marine meteorology and for hydrology. The Commission material and took the remainder. However, I did find for Climatology presented a problem; some delegates time in the next few years to research and write "brief histories" of the Service for publication by our meteoro­ cards were not only sorted but tallied in counters. What logical society and for inclusion in the Meteorological a labour saver! Many years late1; in 1978, at Congress Service's Annual Report in our centennial year, 1971. in Geneva, when I was elected president of CC/ was But it was 1983 before I could turn my full attention to unforgettable, since I had thought that Eighth Congress histo1y. I published several short pieces over the next wo uld be my last WMO meeting. Had I wanted to few years and it was 1991 before my first volume-The become pres ident I would have thought it political0' Beginnings of Canadian Meteorology-appeared. impossible since three of the eight WMO technical com­ This book covered the period from 1839 to 1880 and missions were already presided over by Canadians. because I was interested in researching aviation mete­ Another unforgettable occasion was in 1985 when orology I jumped ahead in time and resea rched and I went to Rid eau Hall, the residence of the Governor­ wrote Forecasts for Flying covering the 1918-1939 General in Ottawa, to be awarded the Royal Canadian period in 1996. Then I decided to continue with the Geographical Society's Massey Medal and the recep­ sto 1y in wartime, which led to Metmen in Wartime: tion in my honour which followed. Meteorology in Canada 1939-1945 published earlier this yem: I am ve1y happy to have got this far and I do H. T. - Would you like to say something about your family? not plan to fill in the 1880 to 1918 gap nor do I plan to write anything major on th e last 30 years. M.K. T. - Yes, I certainly would. My family has been completely supportive in everything. I met Clara H. T. - A man with your knowledge and experi­ McCandless at a freshman party when we started ­ enced must have many unforgettable lege and we were engaged by the time we graduated. memories in his professional life. Can you We were married in 1942 when I was stationed with recount some of them? the RCAF in Manitoba. 283 M.K. T. - The first that When I was posted back come to mind are to Ontario she returned sca rcely professional but to university to work and they were life-threatening obtain her first graduate as they concern flying in degree. Our first son, wa rtim e. The first time Stephen Morley, was I got airsick I crawled to born in 1945 when we the back of the aircraft, were station ed at opened the door at 2 000 Kingston, Ontario. After ft and lived to wonder at the wa r Clara travelled my foolishness. The sec­ on weekends to lecture for ond was with a pilot who the university and our flew so lo w over Lake secon d son, John David, Ontario that a propeller was born in 1951 . After struck the water and John started school Clara caused the aircraft to returned to graduate vibrate markedly when it school, obtained her came in to land. He Ph.D. in English in 1962, braked hard enough to and became one of the stand the machine on its first faculty members at nose and destroy the evi­ the new York University dence of his foolhardi­ in Toronto. Over th e fol­ ness. Miraculously nei­ lowing twenty-five years ther of us was injured. she published seve ral My first experience Morley and Clara Thomas at the Massey Medal presentation, Rideau Hall, Ottawa, in books and became an with punched cards also 1985 internationally recog- seemed miraculous at the nized authority on Cana­ time. I obtained hourly observations from several dian literature. Also,for the 15 or so years before her Canadian stations on punched cards in 1951 when we retirement in 1984 she was often appointed to national were beginning to experim ent with th em for routine committees and boards and on occasion we would meet processing and ran them through a so rter where the in rail stations and airports. I must add that I have enjoyed travelling with her as a spouse when she went 20 years ago: "VIle aren't so smart, we just happen to be to speak at meetings in Italy, Belgium, France and in the right place at th e right time". I am unhappy that Great Britain. the generation of meteorologists now in the prime of life Our sons: Steve has a degrees in geography and and caree r do not app ear to have nea rly as many John 's is in history. Th ey live in Toronto at present. Steve opportunities as we had. Someone has said "We had is married with a son and has his own charitable fund­ blue above us", and we did, compared to the "heavy raising firm that he founded 20 years ago. John is a col­ overcast" situation which many feel th ey are working lege professor of history and both sons co ach high­ under today. So I really cannot say th ere are things school sports teams: Steve basketball and John football . I was unable to do except that I wish that my genera­ tion of meteorologists could have left a better ''climate" H. T. - Is there anything you would like to have for career advancement by the following generation of done professionally which you have not meteorologists and climatologists. done? M.K. T. - This is a difficult question because I have had the opportunity to do so many things. Men of my H. T.- On that typically altruistic note, I would age group in Canada who sur vived World War II like to thank you for according this inter­ matured in a count1y with an economy that steadily view for the WMO Bulletin. I applaud your expanded for three decades. During that time the Gov­ achievements and even more so the fact ernment felt prosperous enough to support the expan­ that you have remained so delightfully sion of weath er and climate services and research, modest and unassuming and so consider­ amongst other things, of course. As a colleague told me ate of others. 284 JBloomxunoo (JJOOriJ rB~®OO®mxJ11~ 1imxJ[p(JJ~(lg; ®jf WJrB(JlrilhrBrr &WrBOO(ig; {ioo ~@@@

By S. G. CORNFORD 1

Introduction vices (NMHSs), and the services they work with, more Despite some individual disasters, the overall impact effective in preventing natural hazards from turning of the weather in the last year of the 20th century was into disasters? (3) Was the reporting of impacts of the markedly less than in the previous two years. The total same standard as in recent years? (4) Were the number of weather-related fatalities reported by impacts really less in 1997 and 2000 than in 1998 and Members was just over 4 000, about 1999, or are the reported fig­ the same as in 1997 and well below ures just a random sample is the figures of 45 000 in 1999 and Th is review one of an annual series of reality? (5) If a complete almost 42 000 in 1998. The decrease in the WMO Bulletin. Th is year, 72 and accurate record of in economic losses reported by Members responded to the Secretary­ impacts were available, Members is almost as marked: in General's invitation to contribute. would the sum of the 2000 they totalled under impacts still prove to be US$ 13 000 million (compared with nearly random, because it is US$ 21 000 million in 1999, over US$ 75 000 million in related to the distribution of human beings and their 1998 and US$ 19 000 million in 1997). assets at risk, rather than evenly distributed over all This raises several questions. (I) Was the areas exposed to weather? weather in 2000 less violent globally than in the previ­ Probably no numerical answer to any of these ous two years and returning to an earlier norm? (2) questions is possible at present, not least because Were National Meteorological and Hydrological Ser- almost all impacts occur on the 30 per cent of the planet's surface which is land and then does so unevenly Former Director !Special Duties) in the O ffice of the because human occupation of the land is uneven. Cer­ Secretory-General, WMO tainly, a great deal of effort goes in to help (2) come true, and (3) appears to be true, though there is some reported than unevaluated fatalities (column (3)), but evidence to suggest that some Members report only the number of Members evaluating all reported losses when impacts have been abnormal. The 72 Members in monetary terms was only half that reporting num­ reporting this year include about 4 234 million people bers of fatalities in all reported events (column (5)). (about 70 per cent) of the world's human population, These numbers should be borne in mind in any 65 per cent of its land area, 89 per cent of all Gross interpretation of the synthesis which follows. National Products (GNPs) contributing to the global Human life lost prematurely in 2000 sum, and 84 per cent of the estimated internal pur­ chasing power of all these GNPs [1). From this sample Table Illists the numbers of weather-related fatalities of the impacts of weather events in the year 2000, it reported by Members, ranked according to the num­ appears that the number of weather-related deaths bers of deaths per million of their populations (col­ globally was less than one-tenth of the figure for 1999, umn (4)). The upper blank line marks rates of that there were again a few very large economic losses 10 weather-related fatalities per million of the popu­ but that there were far fewer middle-ranking ones. lation per year in 2000, and the lower blank line Table I shows the numbers of Members which marks rates of one weather-related fatality per mil­ reported fatalities and/or economic damage during lion of the population per year. the year 2000. Column (1) shows that, of the 72 Mem­ The average rate of weather-related deaths for bers who responded to the Secretary-General's invita­ the 44 populations for which a number of fatalities tion, only four stated explicitly that they had suffered was evaluated by Members (62 populations in 1999) is no weather-related fatalities during 2000. Column (2), 4 017/2 491 per million= 1.6 fatalities per million of on the other hand, shows that 24 reporting Members the population per year (much less than the corre- did not mention any fatalities. Column (3) shows that sponding figure of 10.5 per million per year in 1999). 285 five Members reported fatalities but did not say how Twelve Members [plus Mozambique] suffered fatali- many; column (4) that a further 19 Members gave the ties greater than 1.6 fatalities per million this year numbers of fatalities for some events but not for all; (24 in 1999). and column (5) that 20 Members gave the numbers of This year, only three Members out of 72 reported fatalities arising in all the events they reported on. more than 10 fatalities per million of the population: For economic damage, the position is somewhat Swaziland, Belize and Zimbabwe [although press different. Only one Member reported explicitly that no reports also put Mozambique in that category] . This weather-related economic damage had occurred (col­ is less than the seven (of 78) in 1999 and 12 (of 74) in umn (1)) and only five made no comment (column 1998. Similarly, 16 Members having rates of more than (2)). Many more unevaluated economic impacts were one fatality per million in 2000 is less than the

Table l Number of Members reporting fatalities 1 and/or economic damage during the year 2000

Positive No report Impacts reported Notal/ All reported Total report of of impacts but not reported impacts impacts no impacts numerically enumerated enumerated

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)

Fatalities 42 24 5 19 203 72

Economic damage 14 5 37 19 105 72

"Fatalities• includes both people reported dead and people reported missing . The number xis used when reports soy that more than x , or a t leas x were ki lled or miss ing . "A few" or "some" is counted a s three. Costa Rica; Denmark; Dominican Republic; Trinidad and Tobago Austria; Belize; Botswa na; Brazil; Chile; Czech Republic; Egypt; Fiji; France; Hong Kong, China; )opan; Malaysia; Morocco; The Netherlands; Russian Federation; Sweden; Switzerland; Tha iland; Venezuela; Zimbabwe Denmark Armenia; Botswana; Congo; Crootia; Japan; Morocco; South Africa; Swazilond; Switzerland; Thailand Table 11 Fatalities 1 from abnormal weather events during 2000

Member Fa talities 1 Population2 Fata lities per million (millions) of the population (1) (2) (3) (4) Swaziland 37 1.008 36.7 [Mozambique 7003 19.68 35.6] Beli ze 8 0.241 33 .2 Zimbabwe 220 11 .669 18 .9 Fiji 8 0.817 9.79 Botswana 13 1.622 8.01 Madagascar 111 15.942 6.96 Croatia 20 4.473 4.47 India 2 914 1 013.662 2.87 Switzerland 17 7.386 2.30 Guinea 14 7.43 1.88 Norway 8 4.465 1.79 Egypt 111 68.47 1.62 Tha iland 83 61 .399 1.35 Malaysia 27 22.244 1.21 Argentina 40 37.032 1.08 Congo 3 2.943 1.02 286 Italy 52 57.298 0.91 Senegal 7 9.481 0.74 France 384 59.08 0.64 Bolivia 5 8.329 0.60 South Africa 23 40.377 0.57 Morocco 16 28.351 0.56 Canada 16 31.147 0.51 Sri Lanka 9 18.827 0.48 Japan 59 126.714 0.47 Chile 7 15 .211 0.46 Hong Kong, China 3 7 0.43 Czech Republic 4 10.244 0.39 United States of America 89 278.357 0.32 Venezuela 7 24.17 0.29 Greece 3 10.645 0.28 Lithuania 1 3.67 0.27 Sweden 2 8.91 0.22 Netherlands 3 15.786 0.19 Israel 1 6.217 0.16 Russian Federation 23 146.934 0.16 Austria 1 8.211 0.12 Brazil 9 170.115 0.05 Turkey 3 66.591 0.05 United Kingdom 2 59.062 0.03 Trinidad and Tobago 0 1.295 0.00 Costa Rica 0 4.023 0.00 Denmark 0 5.293 0.00 Dominican Republic 0 8.495 0.00 Total 4 01 75 2 49J5

"Fatalities• includes both people reported dead and people reported missing. The nu mber x is used when reports say that more than x , or at least x were killed or missing, "A few" or "some" is cou nted as three. Projections of populotions for the year 2000 are from the Uni ted Nations' Food a nd Agriculture web site (25] where possible, next from (1] and, in the last resort, from (15[e)] . Press reports one year a&er the Roods (11 ; 12[a)]. 4 .5 million people were said to have been affected. 4 Includes l 1 deaths in a in French Guiano five days oher a period of heavy ra in and one on the island of l a Reunion du ring the pas­ sage nearby of cyclone Connie. Excludes the total for Mozambique; the number of fatalities there is based on press reports only. 22 Members in 1999 and 23 in 1998. [Mozambique is and led to the premature loss of Ill lives; 24-hour excluded from these particular calculations: see the rainfalls recorded on 3 April were up to 122.81 m-2• In note below.] parts of northern South Africa, heavy and exten­ Swaziland and Zimbabwe (along with sive flooding in the first half of February meant that Botswana, Madagascar, Mozambique and South the arrival of Eline brought devastating to Africa) were affected by Eline, which communities which were already suffering. More than began as a tropical di sturbance 3 000 km east of 23 people died and thousands were left homeless. Mauritius on 8 February in an area where the sea­ Table Ill lists some rainfall measurements: four-day surface temperature exceeded 29°C. The effects of falls range up to 31 times the normal for a four-day Eline in south-eastern Africa were aggravated by period in February and up to nine times the normal floods and waterlogged soil remaining from fall for the month. In Mozambique, more than from a tropical depression earlier in February. These 500 000 people were left homeless by what were sun-warmed floods provided and moisture to termed the worst floods in 50 years: floods fed by rain allow the cyclone to remain active farther inland than from Eline were augmented by rivers flowing in spate normal after it crossed the coast south of Maputo on into Mozambique from the heavy and prolonged 21 February. In Swaziland, about 28 people were rains in Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe. reported drowned, especially in the flat land region. Zambia did not report any abnormal falls in Febru­ Eline reached Zimbabwe, well inland, still as a strong ary (or weather-related fatalities at any time of the cyclone. More than 100 people died, as well as 34 435 year), although, at other , there was damage to head of livestock. A station in the eastern highlands, crops and infrastructure, and widespread risk of Chasing, has an average February rainfall of 4861 m- 2; waterborne diseases. The considerable economic between 22 and 26 February 2000 the fall was more damage by the February rains and tropical cyclone 287 than 1 22 11 m-2, exceeding the long-term average for Eline is summarized later. the whole rainy in just five days. Later in the In Swaziland, during the year, at least six people year in Zimbabwe, more than 120 people died from were struck by in short-lived and a lightning strikes. The central and southern half of few more died when strong blew down their Botswana was extensively flooded by rain 6-10 Feb­ houses. ruary, then, later, torrential rain from Eline was con­ In Belize, two events characterized the year. centrated in the north and north-east, so that virtu­ Firstly, the , January to May, was abnor­ ally the whole country was affected at some time in mally dry: some regions recorded rainfalls of only the month; at least 13 lives were lost. In Madagascar, one quarter of the normal for the season. Such low no lives were reported lost, though gusts exceeding values had not been seen for 30-40 years. The rainy 200 km h-1 were reported at Mahanoro (on the coast season, however, began on time in June, with normal 20°N), where 80 per cent of the region was destroyed. In falls. Secondly, in late September, hurricane Keith Madagascar, too, the intense tropical cyclone Hudah remained stationary just offshore for three days. also produced gusts exceeding 200 km h- 1 on 2 April Winds were strong and rainfall in some regions

Table Ill Some four-day and monthly rainfalls in South Africa in February 2000

Town Rainfall % of 1/7 of February % of February 22-25 February February monthly 2000 monthly 2000 normal rainfall normal (I m-2) (per cent) (I m-2) (per cent)

Thohoyondu 480 3 111 1 010 935 Letsitele 281 2 115 498 535 Levebu 502 1 997 1 212 689 Pho loborwo 229 1 931 338 407 Lou is Trichordt 268 1 737 669 619 Soekmekoor 347 1 735 674 481 Tzoneen (Grenshoek) 426 1 685 1 163 657 Groskop 222 553 1 000 356 reached 830 l m-2 in less than five days. Flooding was with colder , such as Canada and Sweden, widespread and lasted for months. The hurricane pro­ better insulation of houses, and better heating, led to duced eight fatalities, including four people who died smaller differences between and summer when their bus plunged into a flooded river. Although death rates: mortality was found to increase by 2 per Fiji, fortunately, did not experience any really extreme cent for each degree in the indoor temperature weather during 2000, it was wetter than usual, with below 20°C. As a consequence, the Government several flash floods. Eight lives were lost in , announced its commitment to a 10-year programme flash floods and at sea. to eliminate fuel poverty in the United Kingdom and The greatest number of fatalities was, as usual, introduced an annual payment to the old to pay for borne by a Member with a large population at risk. extra heating. India reported by far the largest number of fatalities: This approach to "extra" deaths because of sea­ 2 914. Severe cold over major parts of northern, cen­ sonally cold weather in the United Kingdom comple­ tral and eastern parts of the country took a toll of ments the success in reducing heat-related deaths in 414 people, including, in January, 163 in Uttar Pradesh hot weather discussed by Kalkstein [6]. In India, extra and more than 150 in Bihar. By contrast, April brought deaths occur in both heat waves and cold waves, espe­ a to Orissa and a severe drought to Gujarat, cially in large cities [7]. In Rome, Italy, mainly the eld­ Saurashtra, Kutch and Rajasthan: fodder and drinking erly suffer from the summer heat [8]. Such periods of water were scarce; in Saurashtra, 140 dams of near extremes within the normal range of climate 168 dried up. Large numbers of birds perished in the offer opportunities for NMHSs as a crucial part of drought over West Rajasthan in May. Again, by con­ national early warning systems, as discussed, for trast, heavy rains and flooding occurred over many example, by Obrusnik and Nemec [9], and show that 288 parts of the country and claimed more than NMHSs can help governments in mitigating the 2 500 lives, including 1 200 in West Bengal alone dur­ effects of the variability of natural events. Abnormal ing the third and fourth weeks of September. natural events need not become human disasters Of the 111 people who died in Egypt, 51 did so in (see, for example, [10]) . car accidents in heavy rain, 28 in car accidents in Such "extra" heat- or cold-related deaths raise heavy mist, two in a bus accident in strong winds and important questions, not least in the specification of 30 as a result of heavy rain cutting electrical power the Members' reports on which the present review is supplies. based. Which of a Member's fatalities should form In the United States ofAmerica, 104 people died, part of the national total of weather-related deaths? Is 19 of them in San Francisco on 14 June, when the air the totalling of fatalities related to"abnormal" temperature exceeded 39°C. High temperatures were weather events alone enough? What constitutes blamed for at least 46 deaths in July, including 19 in "abnormal"? Do we need also to consider "climate­ Texas and 11 in Louisiana. Tornadoes in south-east related" deaths? Are such extra deaths merely a weak­ Georgia in the early hours of 14 February caused ness in the way a society normally adapts, through 19 deaths and those in Texas on 28 March another five. , town planning and social habits, to the By contrast, despite criticism of some aspects of climate it finds itself in? How far might the failure of a the preparedness of its -defence system (e.g. by government to protect its citizens from the impact of the Nat ional Audit Office [2]), the United Kingdom's the weather (and variations within the normal range flood-warning scheme meant that only two deaths of variability of climate) be considered part of the were reported as a result of widespread floods result­ cause of some deaths? What fraction of such deaths ing from the wettest nationwide since should be regarded as weather-related? What is the records began in 1766 [3 ]. However, authoritative importance, in this connection, of climate change? reports [4, 5] estimated that the number of deaths For the present, though, reports must be taken as during four recent winters exceeded the number of they are, and, in this review, the numbers of fatalities deaths in comparable summer periods by 165 000, or from weather events are taken as Members report an average of 41 250 a winter. Of these, 90 per cent them. Exceptionally, the total for Mozambique is were of people aged over 65 years, three-quarters over based on international press reports of the disastrous 75 years and 40 per cent over 85. Most of these extra floods there, first as a result of widespread prolonged deaths were caused not by hypothermia but by the rains in countries upstream (in Zambia, for example, cold aggravating circulatory diseases (leading to forcing the gate at the Kariba hydroelectric dam on strokes or heart attacks), and respiratory diseases the River Zambezi to be opened to prevent the dam such as bronchitis and pneumonia. In some countries from collapsing), and then as result of tropical in Zimbabwe in the February floods and a remarkable "more than 120" are reported to 3000 have died "in the last season" (attributed to December), from lightning strikes during 2500 extensive associated with the 2000 Intertropical . (This is more than 88 per cent of Members' reported total of 1500 deaths from lightning worldwide.) In the southern hemisphere, the maximum was in the summer month of February, when 28 died in floods in Swaziland (especially from tropi­ cal cyclone Eline) and 23 in South Africa. Press reports of 700 dead in Mozambique are not included in Figure 1 and would, of course, :;; 'il make this by far the greatest southern-tierce loss of the year 2000. Q~ Figure 2 shows the fatalities shown in Figure /-Weather-related fatalities which could be al/acoted to aparffwlar month in the Figure 1, but normalized to give the monthly relatively quiet year 2000. "Northern", "equatorial" and "southern" refer to three zones of equal distribution of fatalities in each tierce as area of the surface of the earth ("fferces"). The ma;orlosses of life were both in India, (more numbers of weather-related fatalities per than) 2 500 in rain-fed floods in September and 414 in severe cold in January, with minor month per million of the population of Mem­ maxima in the equatorial fierce in February and December. The total (3 976) is one-tenth that in bers in the tierce making reports. Members 289 1999, and less than notional totals in India and Venezuela that year. Press reports of 700 dead in Mozambique are not included. The large loss in the northern fierce is related to the large reporting in the northern tierce comprised number of people at risk there. 3 646 millions of a possible population there

Eline and Gloria. A post­

event assessment of the total of fatali­ 0.7 ties was 700 [11( a), 12(a)] though no­ one really knows the true total. By 0.6 20 March [13], 212 bodies had been 0.5

recovered, one million people were 0.4 homeless and some 650 000 were in need of food and medicine. As always, 0.3 the final short-term threat was dis­

ease, following the breakdown of 0.1 All reporting Members water and sanitation services. Figure 1 shows how the 3 976 weather- related fatalities (dead plus missing) whi ch could be allocated to a particular month were distributed through the relatively quiet year 2000 and over three zones of equal area of Figure 2-Fatalities shown in Figure I, normalized by dividing by the sum of the populations of those the surface of the Earth (tierces )2. The Members in each of the ttierces which reported. The verffcol axis denotes fatalities per million of the major losses of life were both in population per month. Both the northern and southern fferces show alate summer/early autumn maximum. India: (more than) 2 500 in rain-fed floods in September and 414 in severe cold in Janu­ of 4 322 million, those in the equatorial tierce 424 mil­ ary. Minor maxima occurred in the equatorial tierce lion of a possible 1 549 million and those in the in February and December. One hundred people died southern tierce 118 millions of a possible 140 million . Economic losses Fo!oli!ies ore ollocoled la one of !hree zones, "!ierces", of equal area an a spherical eorlh, depending on whe!her Whilst NMHSs can mitigate the loss of life from !he lalilude of !he reporling Member's capilal cily is norlh or soulh of loliludes 19° 27' or in belween !hem !see abnormal weather events, it is much harder to reduce [ l51eL p. 370, foolnole 5]) day-to-day damage to a country's economic life: given adequate warning, people can be moved to safety; damaged that they had to be replaced. About 125 000 crops and cities cannot. Variability of economic per­ people were affected, representing 23 per cent of the formance must be expected as a consequence of the population, 5 000 were evacuated and 3 279 left home­ variability of weather and factored into normal plans less. Broken down by sector, losses were: economic- and expectations. NMHSs can, however, be effective at 59 per cent, infrastructure-16 per cent, social-14 per the design and planning stages, and so can, perhaps, cent, environment-9 per cent, miscellaneous-2 per be of greater economic use in advising on climate cent and foreign assistance-! per cent. than on weather: cities need not be built on coastal In Armenia, agriculture in 1999 contributed flood plains, or those on flood plains should not be 33 per cent to the value of the Gross Domestic Product the ones chosen for development; the occasional loss (GDP) [1 ]. In 2000, a very hot dry summer reduced the of all the crops grown on fertile flood-plain silt has to harvest, especially of grains and potatoes, as well as giv­ be seen as part of the average cost of producing the ing unfavourable conditions for sowing winter crops crop over a number of years . and putting forests at a high risk of . The costs of losses and damage from weather­ levels were only 7-16 per cent of the normal monthly related events in 2000 are set out in Table IV. The total average in July and 20-40 per cent in August. Water lev­ of Members' evaluated losses comes to nearly US$13 els in rivers were reduced to 40-50 per cent of normal. 000 million (i.e. one-third of the US$ 39 000 million in Table IV 1999, which itself was half Economic losses as a result of abnormal weather events in 2000 the corresponding figure for 1998 but twice that for Member Loss GNP Damage 290 1997 and 1996). (US$ millions} (US$ billions} (% of GNP) This year, on ly six Members (Belize, Armenia, Belize 280 0.673 41.6 [Mozambique 453 1 3.9 11 .6] Zimbabwe, Botswana, Armenia 110 1.9 5.8 Morocco and Croatia, Zimbabwe 250 6.1 4.1 shown above the upper Botswana 207.5 5.1 4.1 blank line) reported losses Morocco 633 33.8 1.9 exceeding I per cent of Croatia 262.35 20.4 1.3 GNP compared with nine in 518.6 52.7 1.0 1999. Seven Members (those above the second Swaziland 7.5 1.379 0.5 blank line) reported losses Argentina 816 277.9 0.3 India 1 260 442.2 0.3 as a proportion of GNP South Africa 220 133 .2 0.2 above the mean (0.7 per Thailand 134.29 121 0.1 cent) for all Members La !via 5 6 0.08 which evaluated any eco- USA 6 275 8 351 0.08 nomic loss . Switzerland 200 273 .1 0.07 United Kingdom 786 1 338.1 0.06 In a relatively quiet year, Congo 0.66 1.9 0.03 the loss in Belize, equivalent Malaysia 18 .63 77.3 0.02 to more than 40 per cent of Sweden 50 221.8 0.02 GNP and more than 25 per Ch ile 11 71.1 0.02 cent of the purchasing Japan 631 4 078.9 0.02 Australia 53.3 380.8 0.01 power parity estimate of the Czech Republ ic 5.005 52 0.009 GNP (PPP/GNP), was the Trinidad & Tobago 0.5 5.66 0.009 most damaging since 1995, Canada 27 591.4 0.005 when this kind of compari- Lithuania 0.3 9.7 0.003 son began [15 (a,b,c,d,e) ]. In Brazil 9 742.8 0.001 Dominican Republic 0.185 16.1 0.001 the prolonged flooding fol- Turkey 0.00165 186.3 0.000 !owing hurricane Keith, 3 000 homes, nearly 10 per cent of Total 12 772 17 500 the area's housing stock, 1 Based on a press report of international pledges of fu nds for reconslruction [lllolJ. were destroyed or so badly Table V Unfavourable prospects for current crops [22] in the year 20001

Main contributing Jan. / Feb. April June Sept./Oct. Nov. No. of factors No. of different factors x seasons countries

Not primarily weather-related Civil strife 42 4 4 4 3 19 6 Economic & financial constraints 1 1 4 6 3 15 10 High costs 1 1 1 Agricultural shortages3 2 1 1 3 7 4 Reduced plantings 2 2 2 War displacement 1 1 2 1

Total not weather-related 8 8 9 1 1 10 46 (9)4 18 (3)4 Population of these 18 countries totals 221 million

PrimarOy too much rain Adverse weather 15 16 17 17 4 3 Cyclones 18 18 18 3 1 Excessive ra ins 19 19 19 3 1 Flooding 1 10 2 11 31 2 3 12 3 13 12 6 1 14 Hurricane rains 1 1 291 Torrential rains 2 15 2 2 Sub-total 2 4 6 6 7 25 11

(Popu lation of these 11 countries totals 346 million) Primarily toa little rain when needed Drought 51 6 1317 1618 1819 7 20 59 28 Insufficient rainfall 121 3 22 3 22 7 3 Late ra ins 123 1 1 Localized drought 1 24 1 1 Reduced yield 125 1 1 Sub-total 7 16 19 18 9 69 32

(Population of these 32 countries totals 601 million)

Total weather-related 9 20 25 24 16 94 (54)4 38 (37 )4 Population of these 38 countries totals 810 million

Countries and terri tories listed in footnotes 5 la 25 below ore designated os follows : AF Afgh an istan; Al Algeria; AR Armenia; BA Belorus; Bl Belize; BO Bolivia; BR Brazil; CD Democratic Republic of the Congo; EA East Timor; EC Ecuador; El El Salvador; ER Eritreo; ET Ethiopia; GE Georgia; HA Haiti; HO Honduras; IN Iran, Islamic Republic of; IQ Iraq; JA Jamaica; JO Jordan; KE Kenya; KP Democratic People's Republic of Korea; U Li byan Arab Jomohiriyo; MA Madagascar; ME Mexico; Ml Republic of Moldovo; MN Mongolia; MR Morocco; MZ. Mozambique; NI Nicaragua; PA Pa raguay; Sl Si erre Leone; SO Somalia; SU Sudan; SZ Swozilond; SY Syria; TJ Tojikislon; TN United Republ ic of Tanzania; TU Tunisia; UR Uruguay; YU Yugoslavia. The numbers here and elsewhere in this table denote the number of countries reporting the factor in the season . Includes "lock of inputs•, "shortage of seed" and "shortage of quality seed". The figures in brackets here show the corresponding fig ure for 1998 (15(d)] when drought alone threatened food supplies from local sou rces for 661 million people. ME; 6BA; 7BR; 8MA; 9Sz; lDMZ.; " BO, MZ; 12 BO, MZ, YU ; 13BI, HO, NI; "NI; 15BI, HO; 16ER, IQ, KE, MA, SO; 17AF, Al, EC, ET, IQ, JA, JO, KE, MA, MR, PA, SO, UR; 18AF, Al, ET, HA, IN , IQ, JA, JO, KE, MA, Ml, MR, SO, SY, TJ, YU; 19AR, El, ER, ET, GE, HA, HO, JA, KE, KP, MA, Ml, MN, NI, SO, SU, TJ , YU ; 20El, ER, HA, HO, KE, NI , SU; 21 TN ; 22U TN , TU; 23ET; 24TN; 25ME

In Zimbabwe, the February floods caused the Gov­ tions extensively, especially in eastern parts. In addi­ ernment to declare a national disaster, while winds up to tion to the hundred deaths, 300 000 people were dis­ 157 km h-1 from tropical cyclone Eline damaged planta- placed, 18 373 houses were destroyed, 315 schools and 3S clinics were extensively damaged, 34 43S head of the second half of the 19th century. Drought began in livestock perished, 188 bridges were damaged, 161 km 2 January and severe to extreme drought covered about of fields (0.5 per cent of all the nation's arable land [I]) 70 per cent of the country by the end of Augus t. Many were washed away and roads, especially over the south people suffered severe water shortages. con­ of the countr y, were damaged. sumed about 200 km 2, including many hectares of Across the border in neighbouring Botswana, exotic forests in national parks. By contrast, Jan uary the floods mainly affected populated areas. As well as was very cold, with temperatures below -30°C in some the 13 lost lives, 106 776 people were displaced as a mountainous areas. Gusts in the strong bora reached result of the destruction of their dwellings and the ISO km h- 1 and damaged power utilities and the Government sought international aid. transmission network, fruit trees and vegetables in In Morocco, the weather in 2000 was character­ Dalmatia, and disrupted land and sea traffic. Some ized by a mixture of exceptional events: floods, pro­ sea harbours in the central Adriatic were frozen. Of longed dry periods, strong winds, including chergiu (a the US$ 26S million damage (internal purchasing power hot, fohn-like wind coming over the mountains from equivalent to about US$ 400 million), 84 per cent the desert), and violent storms. Usually, there is a resulted from the drought, 6 per cent from , 3 per humid season from December to April and a dry sea­ cent from wildfires, I per cent from fl oods and 6 per son from June to October, with two transition periods cent from other weather-related causes. in May and November. This year, the normally humid The line in Table IV referring to Mozambique is season was exceptionally dry. No of rain was based on press reports. For example, The Washington recorded from the second half of January to the sec­ Post (quoted in[l6]) reported that much of what ond half of March. The weather in April and May was Mozambique had ach ieved since the end of the civil 292 disturbed with some rather noteworthy storms. Usu­ war in 1992 had been swept away by the worst flood­ ally, storms affect mountain slopes exposed to hot ing in south-eastern Africa for the past century. winds from the Sahara; this year, parts of the Sahara Almost one-fifth of the country's only highway was itself received more than 90 I m-2 in less than six demolished, as well as large sections of the railway hou rs on 23 May. Temperatures in July were unusually linking Mozambique and Zimbabwe. One-third of all high, reaching 48.3°C at Taroudant. On 27 September, cattle in the extensive flooded areas were drowned a powerful convective cluster built up to the so uth of and one-quarter of all crops were washed away. Most the Rif, in the northern province of Taza; a doppler importantly, years of work on lo cating millions of at Fes registered an echo exceeding 4S more land mines was badly set back when the floods than 13 km high. As well as seven deaths, the storm unearthed many and moved them about the country­ caused considerable damage. Further damage was side. Initially, reconstruction costs were estimated at caused in the north by heavy rains on 22 and 23 Octo­ US$ 2SO million [13]. By the end of the year, ber; meanwhile, the south was suffering prolonged US$ 4S3 million had been pledged for reconstruction drought. However, it was the period from 20 to 27 by international donors and US$ 141 million of it had December which brought really damaging strong been paid [ll(a) ]. Assessing the value of the damage winds and rain: one normally dry wadi reached a flow as equal to the pledges, gives a figure for the damage of ISO m3 s- 1 and nine people were killed 3. Many cat­ of over 12 per cent of GNP, putting Mozambique in tle were lost and much other damage done when th e second place in Table IV, behind Belize. The figure of river Martil overflowed its banks. Damage to a princi­ US$ 4S3 million is used in subsequent calculations. As pal road, the collapse of public buildings and sweep­ always, people looked for causes of the abnormal ing away of foundations, flooding of houses and flooding. One wetlands conservation expert blamed 2.S km 2 of cultivated land amounted to US$ 633 mil­ urbanization and short-sighted land management lion (with an internal purchasing power of almost upstream of Mozambique: US$ I 700 million). Grasslands and wetlands are the rivers' safety Croatia also had an extremely warm year, such valves .. . When a river floods, wetlands spread out as may be expected only twice, or less, in a century. In the wate1; slow it down and absorb it like a sponge. some parts it was the warmest since records began in ... (Now) flood have nowhere safe to go. They cannot sink into the ground or be held back by marshes and flood plains, so they build up ... [14}. This rate of flow of 150 m3 s- 1 in a single normally dry wadi is mare than 40 per cent of the annual role of with· In Mozambique agriculture contributes 32 per drawal of freshwater for the whole country of 28 million cent to the GDP (in 1999 [I]), but the very nature of people I[ 1]. 291 , Table 9 ). the fertile alluvial soil means that when its " weeks of September. It includes losses

6000 caused by a continuing severe drought in the west. At the beginning of the year, and 5000 after a relatively dry 1999, winter rainfall

4000 was one-quarter of normal [17]. In Sep­ tember, after below-average rains, live storage in the 174 dams in Gujarat was 2 000 million m3 less than in September 1999, when it was already less than half the total installed capacity of 3 Globe almost 15 000 million m [18]. By the end of the year, 30 per cent of the food grain crop had been lost, 25 million people and 7.1 million cattle had been affected [19]. In Japan, agriculture contributes only about 2 per cent to the GDP [1]. Nev- Figure 3- Economic losses which could be allocated to amonth and fferce. As with fataliffes, the ertheless, in 2000, the total reported losses preponderance of/asses is in the northern fferce. Units for the verffco/ oxis ore US$ millions. The of US$ 631 million comprised agr icul- diagram does not include losses in Mozambique. ture-61 per cent, forestry-31 per cent, and fisheries-8 per cent. The most seri- exceeds 15 per cent, it becomes a liquid" so that faun- ous impacts came from a front stimulated by dations of roads and structures are gradually under- Saomai (0014) which passed Okinawa and moved into 293 mined from below [ 11(a)]. Mozambique once pro- the East China Sea in mid-September. Orographic rain duced half the world's supply of cashew nuts. So was torrential in some regions. In Nagoya, 534.51 m- 2 central were the nuts to the economy that land was was recorded in 24 hours on 12 September. From this valued according to the number of cashew trees on it; front, and typhoon Saomai, national economic losses floods were only one reason for the decline of the were estimated at US$ 225 million (forestry-55 per industry. Nevertheless, by early 2001 , and despite the dis- cent, agriculture-44 per cent and fisheries-0.7 per asters of the previous year, Mozambique's was again cent); 11 people were killed or missing. expected to rank among the world's fastest-growing In the southern tierce, New Zealand had the economies [ll(b)]. It was boosted by US$ 30 million second warmest winter since records began in the in revenue from the 250 000 tourists who visited the country in 2000 [12(b)] . Figure 3 shows how the economic o.o5 losses were distributed throughout the o.o45 year in the tierces. The dominant loss- o.o4 exceeding the sum of all others-is that o.o35 in the United States of America: in one o.o3 of the worst seasons for 50 years, o.o25 nearly 91 000 fires scorched about 300 000 km 2 across the country. In , in May, destroyed 235 homes and threatened the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Damage was estimated at US$ 1 lOO million. Estimated agricultural losses from drought were more than US$ 4 000 million. The economic loss reported by India, equal to US$ 1 260 million and second in 2000 only to that in the United Figure 4 -Economic losses shown in Figure 3, normalized by dividing by the sum of the PPP/GNP of those Members in each of the fferces which reported. The vertical axis denotes penentage of PPP/GNP of States of America, was from rain-fed reporffng Members per month. Even though the diagram excludes losses in Mozambique, those from floods, and especially from crop losses in flooding in southern Afriro in February predominate, along with asubstantia/lo ss in September in West Bengal during the third and fourth Argentina, when 1.6 million sheep died in severe late snowfall at arost of some US$ 500 million. mid-1850s. The most extreme events came through to feed their populations. Many, though, rely primarily drought, flooding, very strong winds and . on home-grown supplies which do not demand inter­ Drought brought the greatest los ses. Following an national, hard, currency. The Food and Agriculture impact equal to 3 per cent of the GDP from the Organization (FAO) of the United Nations regularly drought of 1998/1999, the impact of the drought of collates reports on prospects for current crops of 1999/2000 was a further 1 per cent of GDP countries throughout the world. Reasons why (US$ 498 million [20] or about one-sixth of the annual prospects are unfavourable include a whole range of contribution of agriculture to the economy of New causes, but adverse weather events are usually signifi­ Zealand [21]). In addition, cleaning up after floods in cant. Since most harm comes from too much rain or Christchurch in August cost US$ 400 000 and more too little, it seems best to divide the adverse weather than US$ 20 million was lost in November, when frost primarily into these two categories. This is done in damaged crops in the province of Hawkes Bay. Table V. In Figure 3, most losses appear in the northern In 2000, as in 1998 [ 15(d)], drought was the main tierce, where there is most value exposed to risk. (The threat to food supplies. Table V summarizes the FAO sums of the GNPs of reporting Members in the three reports for 2000 [22] . Drought, or insufficient rain at tierces (in US$ millions) are: northern-22 189; the right time, threatened food supplies from local equatorial-! 134; southern-545. Estimated pur­ crops for more than 600 million people in 32 different chasing power equivalents are: northern-24 091; countries and territories. The effects of too much equatorial-1998; southern- 981.) rain, on the other hand, such as floods and beaten­ Figure 4 shows the values in Figure 3, calculated down crops, threatened food supplies from local as a percentage of the GNP of 294 reporting Members in the tierce. 10 000.0 The impacts then shift away from LA. the northern tierce, increase in the g equatorial tierce (especially from ~ 1 -- floods in Zimbabwe in February ; OOO .O •• and hurricane Keith in Belize in ~ ~ September), and become greatest ·-c: --.:;:: --: in the so uthern tierce (where 0 r+ -.._ ~ 100.0 losses in Botswana, New Zealand '3 Q. 0 and Argentina in February and in Q. Argentina in September approach G) ...... e • 0.1 per cent of the zonal sum of T ... ·- '0 10.0 ...... GNPs). Mozambique is not c: included in Figures 3 and 4. The .E~ inclusion of this Member's .... G) • ""' US$ 453 million loss in Figure 4 Q. 1.0 ...... almost doubles the southern 1i5 =:::J .Si ---,l tierce loss in February to 0.19 per t/) cent of the sum of all reporting ,gG) .... • ell Members' GNPs. c: • :.;: 0.1 •• Food security ~ A fundamental dimension of national life which is not assessed - directly from numbers of weather­ OllUl related premature deaths, nor Rank from economic losses, is the secu­ rity of the national food supply. Figure 5- 0istribuffon of overall economic impact of weather events in the year 2000, expressed os working lives per million of the reporting Member's populoffon. The lower curve (diamonds) shows impacts on individual Some Members with robust, man­ Members, ranked with the largest to the left. The upper curve (squares) shows the some data but plotted os ufacturing, service or informa­ cumulative totals of all impacts ot or below the rank shown. As found in earlier years, ot of/ points on the upper tion-based economies rely largely curve, the impact of o few moior events exceeds the toto/ of o/1 reported smaller impacts. The largest event on international trade for supplies (hurricane Keith in Belize) exceeds the sum of o/1 smaller ones (see Table V/1/J. Table VI Summary of FAO reports on countries 1 facing exceptional food emergencies

Weather-related cause No. of reports Non-weather-related cause No. of reports

Drought 63 Civil strife and insecurity 66 Past hurricane (Mitch, 1998) 14 Displaced persons, refugees, etc 46 Floods/mud slides 9 Economic constraints/problems/embargo 21 Cyclones 4 Vulnerable groups 1 8 Reduced harvest 3 Shortage of inputs 5 Snow 2 Food deficits 5 Poverty 2

258 reports in summaries for January/ February (32). April (36). June (36}, September/October (32} and November (32} 2000. Figures in brackets here are the numbers of countries in each report facing exceptional food emergencies. Reports appear for a total of 39 countries, of which nine responded to the Secretary-General's invitation this year: Armenia, Congo, Jordan, Kenya, Madagascar. Russian Federation, Syrian Arab Republic, Venezuela and Yugoslavia. sources for 346 million people in 11 different coun­ caused the major effect, such as floods and landslides tries. Altogether, weather-related effects threatened which, in turn, led to damaged infrastructure or build­ crop prospects for 810 million people in 38 countries. ings or loss of life. Similarly, other terms are broadly By comparison, all non-meteorological causes, taken inclusive and indicate the main cause. "Cyclones" together, threatened them for 200 million people in includes hurricanes, tropical storms and . 295 18 countries. "Insufficient rain" includes "drought", which in some FAO analyses also identify countries fac ing places led predominantly to wildfires and shortage of exceptional food em ergencies. As with crop water for grazing, and elsewhere led primarily to short­ prospects, countries may face exceptional food emer­ age of water for agriculture, irrigation and hydro power. gencies for a variety of reasons. For 2000, these are listed in Table VII Table VI. As in Table V, the impor­ Fatalities and economic losses from various kinds of weather in tance of drought as the most sig­ 2000 nificant weather-related effect on food security is overwhelming. Fatalities Economic losses { US$ millions) Rain kills; drought brings economic losses Rain 2 806 Insufficient rain 5 960.24 Cold 420 Rain 3 183.5 Table VII shows results from a dif- Cyclones, etc 301 Cyclones, etc. 2 169.685 Lightn ing 137 Snow, etc 536 ferent cut through the data pro- Heat 85 Tornadoes 486.535 vided by Members. Fatalities and Tornadoes 51 Thaw 201 .25 economic loss es for each type of 28 Hail 20.15 weather event were grouped Thaw 24 Cold 20 together, irrespective of where they Storms 20 2 Snow etc 15 Wind 2 occurred, so that all events associ- Thunderstorms 9 Storms 1.0017 ated primarily with rain, say, Wind 7 Fog 0 worldwide, were separated from Insufficient rain 3 rain 0 those primarily associated, say, Hail 2 0 0 Heat 0 with lightning, or heat. Haze 0 Lightning 0 Table VII excludes some fatali- Sandstorm 0 Sandstorm 0 ties and losses which were reported Strong hot winds 0 Strong hot winds 0 but not attributed directly to partic- Tides Thunderstorms 0 ular types of weather. In addition, Total 3 9081 12 582

"rain", for example, includes rain in I This total is less than that of Table 11 because the porticular type of weather causing some fatal- combination with, say, hail, or snow ities was sometimes not clear. or strong wind, when the rain Table V shows that this was the main threat to Table VIII food supplies for over 600 million people in 32 Overall economic impact on Members from abnor­ mal weather events in 2000 countries. Because of the failure of crops, though, and the outbreak of wildfires, drought Member Number of Number of had the biggest assessed economic impact. working lives working lives China (with the world's largest population lost lost per million of and an economy second only to that of the the population United States of America when measured in Belize 1 562.4 6 325.2 terms of estimated internal purchasing Mozambique 14 209.5 722.0 power) does not feature in the FAO summaries Botswana 866.5 534.2 on which Table V is based. Nevertheless, Armenia 1 244.3 353.5 in northern parts in the first half of Zimbabwe 2 640.4 226.3 Croatia 958.5 214.3 the year there, were of a severity seldom seen. New Zealand 798.1 204.3 Exacerbated by frequent windy and dusty Morocco 4 968.8 175.3 weather in spring, the droughts dramatically Swaziland 63.1 62.6 influenced industrial and agricultural produc­ Argentina 1 821.5 49.2 tion, as well as people's lives, with severe Switzerland 190.4 25.8 USA 5 178.6 18 .6 deficits of water to irrigation works and a South Africa 672.7 16.7 number of cities and countries. In the sum­ United Kingdom 942.0 15.9 mer, 50-year records of air temperature were India 16 115.0 15 .9 exceeded, and withering and death of crops in Thailand 641 .1 10.4 296 La !via 21.1 8.9 continuing high temperatures accelerated the Sweden 61.0 6.8 development of the drought. In Australia, Congo 19.9 6.8 although 2000 was the second wettest year Japan 685.7 5.4 since 1900, and there was flooding in places Fiji 4 4.9 (with the total damage from cyclone Steve Madagascar 55.5 3.5 Malaysia 72.0 3.2 expected to exceed US$ 50 million (half for Australia 59.3 3.1 local government assets and 20 per cent for Chile 36.4 2.4 State roads and railways), dry weather led to Trinidad & Tobago 1.7 1.3 widespread bushfires which, in places, were Czech Republic 12 .2 1.2 described as the worst ever seen. Canada 36.5 1.2 Guinea 7.0 0.9 More generally over the world, though, Norway 4.0 0.9 and despite widespread floods leading to dam­ Egypt 55.5 0.8 age assessed at more than US$ 3 000 million, Lithuania 1.7 0.5 rain also had beneficial effects, even in flooded Italy 26.0 0.5 areas: in Mozambique, where floods caused Senegal 3.5 0.4 France 19.0 0.3 an estimated 700 fatalities, more than half a Bolivia 2.5 0.3 million homeless and economic losses of more Sri Lanka 4.5 0.2 than 12 per cent of GNP in 2000, there were Hong Kong, China 1.5 0.2 further floods in January and February 2001. Venezuela 3.5 0.1 Greece 1.5 0.1 Nevertheless, by March 2001, FAO reported Dominican Republic 1.0 0.1 that, although 165 000 people would be in need Netherlands 1.5 0.1 of food assistance until the next harvest, the Israel 0.5 0.1 crop losses were not significant at the national Russian Federation 11.5 0.1 level and, in the main cereal-growing areas of Austria 0.5 0.1 Turkey 1.5 0.0 the north of the country, rains favoured crop development. Too much rain certainly brings Total 54 085 damage but it also brings benefits; the evapo­ ration inherent in drought brings benefit to neither stock nor crop. The figures reflect certain difficulties in report­ In a relatively quiet year globally, the 49 people ing. Only three people, for example, are reported as reported killed in tornadoes worldwide during a year fatalities as a consequence of"insufficient rain", when corn pares with 51 on one day, 3 May 1999, in Oklahoma and Kansas, USA, [15(e}, Table IV, p. 366]. 1~~------, The damage of US$ 486 million by tornadoes world­ wide in 2000 was less than half that one day's damage. In 2000, Members evaluated remarkably little impact from strong winds not associated with torna­ does or storms of tropical origin. 10000 Overall economic impact Assessing overall economic impact on a Member by ill combining the economic damage and premature loss I of human life, was discussed by [15(c)]. The absolute I 1000 economic impact on a Member is expressed as "work­ ~ ing lives lost" and, to allow comparison of the effects •I on economies of different sizes, relative impacts are ~ expressed as "working lives lost per million of the ~ population"4. Table VIII shows the impacts on indi­ I 100 vidual Members in 2000 in both forms. Only India and Mozambique suffered absolute economic J impacts equivalent to mo re than 10 000 working lives per year (compared with four Members in 2000); in

Table VIII, they are shown in bold italic type. However, I _,.- 10 l. I as usual, it was a Member with a small economy 297 which suffered most: Belize, with a population of 0.241 million and a PPP/GNP/head/year of US$ 4 492 bore an impact equivalent to the loss of over 6 000 working lives per million of the population, 1 +===------~----+=~~ more than the sum of all the other occurrences 1996 199'7 1998 1999 21000 around the world as sampled by WMO Members in Yur their reports this year. Table VIII shows that relative combined eco­ Figure 6-0vera/1 economic impact in the post five years, based on Figures such as Figure 5, shown as cumulative loss (working lives per million of the population) for nomic losses were greatest in Belize, Mozambique Members occupying ranks 1 (diamonds), 3 (squares), 10 (triangles) and 30 and Botswana-all in the equatorial tierce. The rela­ (crosses). tive impact on Belize was four times as great as the largest impact in 2000 and two-thirds that on all reported smaller impacts. For the 30 or so largest, Honduras in 1999 from hurricane Mitch. Otherwise the curve of cumulative totals is steeper than in the general level of overall economic impact was recent years (see [15(e), p. 371]}, showing that the few down, with eight Members suffering impacts of 100 or large impacts were much the same but that most of more working lives per million of the population, the significant ones were smaller than in recent years. compared with 11 in 2000 and 15 in 1999. Absolute Below one working life lost per million of the popula­ combined economic losses were greatest in India, tion, the curve resembles those of the earlier years Mozambique, USA and Morocco. Together they (suggesting a similar standard of reporting of small made up 75 per cent of the total. impacts). The figures in Table VIII are shown plotted on a Combining the figures for this year's impacts logarithmic axis in Figure 5 (diamonds). The upper shown in Figure 5 with those from 1996-1999 gives curve (squares) shows the same data, but as cumula­ Figure 6, which shows cumulative values for the high­ tive totals of all impacts at or below the rank shown. est ranking impact and for those in the third, lOth As found in earlier years, at all points on the curve, and 30th rank. The El Niii.o year of 1998 still stands the impact of a few major events exceeds the total of out as a maximum, though less dramatically than last year. Because very large impacts exceed the sum of all the many smaller ones, the first and third rank curves 4 An "economic life" is defined os 40 limes lhe eslimole of lhe PPP / GNP per head. Someone's premolure deolh is are inevitably subject to near-random effects of the assumed lo deprive lhe economy of 20 years conlribulion few largest impacts. The cumulative totals of the lOth, lo lhe PPP/GNP [ l5(c). pages 381 -38 3] and even more the 30th, largest impact must be less 20°E

298 oo Figure 7- ECMWF surface analysis far 0600 TU 30 October 2000, when of the centre of the low was 960 hPa and grid point winds in the English Channel were SD-60 knots (9D- 110 km h-1) . (See also cover image.)

Figure 8- Secffon auoss the polar iet stream west of Ireland at 0600 TU on 30 October 2000 (see cover illustration and Figure 7). Horizontal wind is blowing into the page and its strength is shown by the isotachs (m s-1) . The surface of constant ozone content shows ozone-rich stratospheric air being drawn down on the polar side of of the iet in the verffcol cirwloffon around the ief in the plane of the secffan. The colour of the constant ozone surface depicts horizontal in the surface: red for strong winds and blue for slower winds.

The work by Dovid Burridge, Tony Hollingsworth and Groeme Kelly (and no doubt many others of the team) at ECMWF, in producing the images on the cover and in Figure 8 is gratefully acknowledged. Table IX Rainfall at representative stations in north-west Europe, October 2000

Monthy rainfall Normal number of days Number of days in October 2000 in October in October 2000 as percentage of with rainfall > 1 I m-2 with rainfall > 1 I m-2 normal October fall

Valentia, Ireland 197 19 28 Dublin, Ireland 116 18 18 Paris, France 226 9 12 De Bilt, Netherlands 147 11 19 Oslo, Norway 205 12 19 subject to this effect and it may tentatively be worth had an unusually wet October with 227 I m-2 at Lille­ adopting them as measures of overall activity. hammer, an October record and 324 per cent of the Storm over Europe, with extra ozone normaL Figure 7 shows the surface analysis by ECMWF Autumn 2000 was the wettest autumn in the United for 0600 TU on 30th. Synoptic charts for 1200 TU for Kingdom since records began in 1766. The estimated the period 26-31 October may be seen, for example, in cost was two lives and US$ 786 million. Storminess [23]. They show the development of a typically vigor- was much the same throughout the maritime fringes ous situation in the north-east Atlantic: to the south 299 of north-west Europe5. Rainfall amounts in October at of a deep depression near Iceland on 26th, an occlud- representative stations, and the number of rain days, ing frontal system moves rapidly eastwards; on 27th a are shown in Table IX. (Data are from [23].) wave forms on the well to the west of In the United Kingdom during the autumn, Spain; the wave depression runs north-eastwards and groundwater levels were rising and giving cause for deepens as it crosses the United Kingdom on 28th concern. A storm which crossed southern Britain dur­ and drags the main centre of low pressure into the ing the night of 29/30 October tipped the balance for northern North Sea by 1200 TU on 30th, with the many parts of that area. This storm gave more than older centre left behind north-west of Ireland. 50 I m-2 over already saturated catchments and winds Figure 8 shows another view of the downwards of 150 km h- 1 or more on exposed southern coasts. By penetration of ozone behind the cold front of the the morning of 30th, 64 I m-2 of rain had been active storm on 30 October depicted in the cover illus­ recorded in north London, the wind had reached tration-as it were, that of a pilot flying to western 155 km h- 1 in south Wales and 15 cm of snow was Europe from across the Atlantic. recorded at Durham in the north-east of England. Brimacombe [24] describes the storm as producing References "the worst conditions of the decade across most of (Websites available on 7 June 2001 unless earlier date is given.) the .country". ]I I Wo rld Development Report 2000/2001 , 2000, Oxford Unive r- In northern Germany, this storm damaged trees sity Press, United Kingdom ]21 The Guardian,I S March 2001 and power supplies. In France, it was one of a number ]3 I http://www.meto.gov. uk/ corporate/pressoffice/pr2000 11 27 . which together exceeded all previous rainfall records, html caused 20 deaths and significant damage. In The ]4 I http://www.helptheaged.org. uk/PDFFI LES!IS1 8.PD F Netherlands 80-90 I m- 2 of rain fell on the Frisian ]5I http://www.helptheaged.org.uk/news/pr090 I 0 I.html Islands during the night of 29/30 October and caused ]6] KALKSTEIN, L.S., 2001 , WMO Bulletin 50 (2), 136-142 ]71 DE, U.S . and K. C. SINHA RAY, 2000, WMO Bulletin 49 (4), local flooding. Southern and south-eastern Norway 340-348 ]81 MICHELOZZ I, P. , V. FANO, F. FORASTIERE, A. BARCA , L. S. KALK- 5 And not only in the north-west. In a rather warm year, STEIN and C. A. PERRUCCI, 2000, WMO Bulletin49 (4) , 348-355 Monaco reported an annual rainfall exceeding the 75· ]91 0 BRUSN fK, I. and ). NEMEC,2001 , WMO Bulletin 50 (I) 30-35 year mean of 63.9 1m- 2 by 42 per cen t, and that almost ]101 KH OLE,M.and U.S. DE,2001 , WMO Bulletin 50 (1) , 35-40 all the normal annual fal l fell in 66 days between 29 ]I I I Overseas, 2001, March-May 2001, Royal Over-Seas League, September and 4 December. On 6 N ovember, falls with London, UK: (a) p. 16; (b) p. 13 return periods of 50 yeors were measured for durotions of ]1 2I http:/ /allafrica .com/ 6 h, 12 h and 24 h. (a) stories/200101160060.html; (b) mozambique/bvdatel? n=3 on 10 January 2001 [ 19[ http://www.gujaratonline.com/newsroom/drought/ [ 13I Time, 20 March 2000 on 22 February 200 1 [ 14[ Daily Telegraph , London, United Kingdom: 3 March 2000 [20[ http://www.oecd.org/std/gdp.htm [15[ CORNFOR D,S.G. , WMO Bulletin (a) 1996, 45 (4), 347-368; [2 1[ http: // 11~vw. manufacture rs . org .n z/ mv html/nzgdp.html (b) 1997,46 (4),35 1- 369; (c) 1998, 47 (4),372-388 ; (d) 1999, [221 FAO: Foodcrops and Shortages, 2000, FAO, Rome, Italy 48 (4), 384-404; (e) 2000,49 (4), 356-373 [23[ Wea ther Log for October 2000 in Weather, 2000,55 (1 2), Royal [ 161 lnternntional Herald Ihbune, 4-5 March 2000 Meteorological Societ y, Reading, UK [ 171 http:/ /Mvw.hindustantimes.com/nonfram/060 100/ detNAT05.htm [24[ BR IMACOMBE, C., Weather, 2001, 56 (5), 181-182, Royal Mete­ [ 18I http://www.expressindia.com/ie/ dailv/20000916/ orological Society, Reading, UK ina1 6043.html [25 I http://apps.fa o.org/lim 500/w rap.pl?Population

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Agricultural production around the world is highly corn and soybeans, even though conditions deterio­ dependent on weather conditions during the growing rated farther south and west . Parts of the south season. Although drought, floods, endured a third consecutive year of heat waves, and tropical cyclones This article was prepared by drought, accompanied by periodic continued to highlight global the Joint Agricultural Weath er extreme heat, while the central and weather in 2000, the timing of such Facility of the United States southern plains had a record-set­ 300 events with respect to a crop's Department of Agriculture ting late-summer heat wave. Corn growth cycle ultimately deter­ (USDA). for grain production was up 6 per mined final crop production. The cent from the 1999 crop, and was following is an annual review of the second highest on record regional crop production, comparing 2000 with the behind 1994. previous year. For both the northern and southern In Canada, wheat production was slightly less hemispheres, these summaries reflect growing-sea­ than in 1999, with a slight increase in acreage nearly son weather for crops that were harvested in the cal­ offsetting marginal declines in yield. However, wet endar year of 2000 . For many countries, changes in weather at harvest resulted in quality problems, production for 2000 are based on crop estimates including sprouting. Coarse grain production released by the USDA in January 2001. dropped 9 per cent, largely due to a 25 per cent drop In 2000, wheat production increased in in corn production in the Ontario corn belt attributed Argentina, India, Mexico, Pakistan, the Russian Feder­ to the effects of late planting. Increases in Prairie bar­ ation, South Africa, Turkey and countries of the Euro­ ley acreage offset declines in yield potential caused by pean Union, and declined in Australia, Brazil, China, summer dryness. In Mex ico, near-normal rainfall Kazakhstan, Ukraine, the USA, north-western Africa across the north-west helped wheat production to and most countries in eastern Europe (Figure 1). Like­ increase 6 per cent from the previous year. wise, coarse grain production increased in Argentina, In the Russian Federation, improved weather France, India, the Russian Federation, South Africa, resulted in an 11 per cent increase in wheat produc­ Ukraine and the USA, and declined in Australia, tion over the previous year. Despite the late arrival of Brazil, Canada, China and countries in eastern planting rains in the aurumn of 1999 in major winter Europe. wheat-producing areas of the south, wheat entered In the USA, wheat production (winter, spring and dormancy adequately established. A mild winter, durum), more than half of which is accounted for by together with above-normal precipitation, provided the , wa s down 3 per cent from 1999. Win­ favourable overwintering conditions for crops, result­ ter wheat and spring-sown small grains benefited ing in below-average winterkill. Good spring and from much more advantageous conditions than the summer weather conditions boosted yield potential. previous year in the north-west, but those gains were In major spring-wheat-producing areas, cool, wet more than offset by temperature extremes and dry­ weather during planting was followed by generally ness on the plains. The corn belt experienced mostly advantageous weather conditions during the remain­ propitious growing weather during the summer of der of the growing season. In Ukraine, most of the 2000, boosting national crop production numbers for wheat grown in the country consists of winter wheat - Increase in producti on D No change in production - Decrease in production D No wheat production or statistics

Figure I - Change in wheat production by country in 2000 compared with 1999 (Source: USOA) ative to 1999 production levels, rising 6 percent. In France and Italy, generally fair weather throughout 301 varieties. Dryness during the autumn of 1999 caused the growing season helped boost corn production 6 winter wheat to enter dormancy poorly established, and 8 percent, respectively. Severe autumn flooding in especially in south-central areas. Although weather northern Italy occurred after a majority of the coarse conditions during the winter provided auspicious grains were harvested. In eastern Europe, untimely overwintering conditions for winter wheat, hot, dry heat and dryness during April and early May nega­ weather in May and June reduced yield prospects and tively affected reproductive winter crops and vegeta­ lowered wheat production by 24 per cent. However, tive spring-sown crops. Wheat production declined by timely rain and cooler weather from mid-June to July 4 per cent. Although more seasonable weather in boosted yield prospects for corn and spring barley, Poland in late May and June helped stabilize yield resulting in a 30 per cent increase in coarse grain pro­ potentials, wheat and coarse grain production duction over the previous year. In Kazakhstan, declined 7 and 17 per cent, respectively. Farther south, unfavourable dryness in July and August, together the dry weather persisted through the summer in with periodic heat, lowered wheat production by most areas, causing a severe drought to develop 15 per cent from the previous year. across south-eastern Europe. In early July, record­ In the European Union, wheat production in breaking heat exacerbated the dryness, scorching 2000 increased 8 per cent relative to 1999 production reproductive spring crops . Coarse grain production levels. Although frequent rainfall during harvesting declined between 40 and 60 per cent in countries reduced crop quality in parts of the European Union, throughout so uth-eastern Europe. In Rom an ia and a mild winter and abundant spring rainfall helped Yugoslavia, corn production declined 62 and 44 per boost yields 4 per cent, complimenting a 4 per cent cent, respectively. increase in harvested area. Most countries in the In Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia, adequate plant­ European Union experienced increases in wheat pro­ ing rains were followed by prolonged dryness during duction from the previous year. The exception was in the 2000 growing season, adversely affecting winter Italy, where it declined by 3 per cent because of grains. In Algeria, production for wheat and coarse reduced planted soft wheat area caused by wet condi­ grains dropped by 50 per cent and 73 per cent, respec­ tions in the fall of 1999. The greatest increase in tively. Morocco experienced a 29 per cent and a 43 per wheat production was observed in Spain, where soak­ cent decline in wheat and coarse grain production, ing, spring rains alleviated winter dryness, leading to respectively. In Tunisia, wheat production declined by a 40 per ce nt surge in production re lative to the 46 per cent, while coarse grain production dropped drought-plagued 1999 growing season. Coarse grain 76 per cent. The second consecutive year of drought production in the European Union also increased rei- lowered 2000 wheat production throughout the Mid- die East, with Iranian wheat production falling over Ontario, soybean production was down slightly despite 10 per cent. In Turkey, however, compared with 1999, a 6 per cent increase in acreage. In China, 2000 soy­ production rebounded, with wheat production up bean production was up about 5 per cent from 1999. 6 per cent and coarse grain production rising about Planted area increased, and the drought in southern 8 per cent. Manchuria did not affect soybeans as much as corn. In In India, wheat production increased about 7 per Australia, rapeseed (canola) production dropped cent over 1999 due to beneficial growing conditions. nearly 35 per cent, due largely to unfavourable dryness Pakistan production rose nearly 18 per cent due to at planting in . In India, oilseed pro­ increases in both yield and area. In India, coarse grain duction was down slightly from 1999, following a sec­ production was up slightly from the previous year. In ond erratic summer monsoon. However, soybean pro­ China, 2000 wheat production declined about 10 per duction was up about 5 per cent with slight increases cent from 1999. Spring dryness across portions of the in both yield and area, while peanut (groundnuts) pro­ north China plain and reduced area contributed to the duction increased about 10 per cent due to good lower production. Summer drought across Manchuria weather in southern India. In Argentina, 2000 soybean and a smaller planted area reduced 2000 Chinese corn production was only slightly lower than 1999's record production by 18 per cent from the previous year. production, because of the large area and near-normal Near-record heat and dryness across southern weather. In Brazil, 2000 soybean increased 4 per cent Manchuria contributed to lower corn yields. In Aus­ from 1999 due to larger area and advantageous tralia, wheat production dropped 22 per cent, due weather conditions. mainly to significant dryness in western Australia and Rice production in 1999 increased in Indonesia, sections of the east. Late-season, excessive rainfall hit the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam, but declined 302 New South Wales at harvest, causing quality declines in Bangladesh, China and Pakistan. In China, 2000 rice and localized crop damage (Figure 2). In South Africa, production declined 4 per cent due to smaller area. In timely spring rains raised wheat production about 20 the Philippines, favourable weather more than offset a per cent from the previous year. Corn production rose decline in area to a slightly increased 2000 production. 36 per cent due to favourable weather on increased In the rest of South-East Asia, favourable weather acreage. In Argentina, wheat production in 2000 maintained rice production at near-record levels in increased 6 per cent above the previous year, due to Indonesia, Thailand and Viet Nam. Production slightly larger area and generally auspicious weather. dropped just 1 per cent in Bangladesh, despite occur­ Argentine corn production was up 24 per cent in 2000 rences of summer flooding. Production fell more than from the previous year's production, due to increased 15 per cent in Pakistan, reflecting drops in both yield area and favourable weather. and acreage. A lack of adequate irrigation supplies Oilseed production in 2000 increased in Brazil, remained a concern for Pakistan producers. In India, China and the USA but declined in Argentina, Canada, production rose slightly on a marginal increase in and India. In the USA, soybean production was up 4 acreage. per cent from 1999, and was the highest on record fol­ Cotton production increased in Australia, Turkey lowed by the 1998 crop. In Canada, rapeseed (canola) and the USA, but declined in Argentina, India, Pak­ production was down nearly 20 per cent in the istan and Uzbekistan. In the USA, cotton production prairies, due primarily to a large drop in area. In Figure 2-- Seasonal rainfall distribuffon for New South Wales wheat region 350 .------,

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~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 0 • ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ • ~ • ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~,,,~~~~~~~~~~ ~ ~ ~~~~ ~~ ~/// Year 2000 was up about 1 per cent from 1999, due to improved 2000 production dropped about 3 per cent, despite an weather in the south-west, California and the Caroli­ increase in area, as irrigation supplies were limited. nas. In Uzbekistan, cotton production fell 17 per cent Increases in yield potential led to a slight rise in Turk­ below 1999, due to a lack of adequate irrigation sup­ ish production. In Australia, beneficial weather condi­ plies strained by an unusually hot summer, as well as tions led to a significant increase in yield from the wet harvest weather. In India, cotton production previous season, although overall production rose dropped about 3 per cent over 1999, due to lower only 3 per cent due to a drop in area. In Argentina, a planted acreage and unfavourable weather for the 50 per cent reduction in 2000 area ultimately resulted second year in the central growing areas. In Pakistan, in a 33 per cent decline in production.

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Introduction time, enhancing the profile of NMSs through the pro­ The rapidly expanding Internet world has created the vision of basic meteorological data, severe weather impression that weather information is just a click warnings and forecasts, as well as climatological away, leading many governments to question the information. Hong Kong, China, has been tasked by amount of resources required to support National CBS to take the lead in developing and hosting the 303 Meteorological Services (NMSs). At the same time, for experimental Websites. Demonstration versions have travellers in an increasingly small world, and journal­ been made available to participating Members for ists making broadcasts in one globalized village, comments and feedback. The pilot Websites are either ready-to-use weather information is a much sought­ in or approaching the operational trial stage. after commodity. They have been tempted to search Ideas about the SW! Website were originally con­ for such information on the Internet and are bewil­ ceived and developed by CBS expert teams under the dered by the diversity of information presented by a Open Programme Area Group on Public Weather Ser­ wide array of information service providers not relat­ vice (OPAG/PWS), i.e. the Expert Team on Media ed to the meteorological community. Issues (Orlando, USA, June 1999) and the Expert Team It is becoming abundantly clear that the meteor­ on Product Development, Verification and Service ological community needs a collective official voice to Evaluation (Hong Kong, China, November 1999). The counteract the many spurious sources of weather CBS PWS Implementation Coordination Team meet­ information floating around on the Internet. An ing in December 1999 endorsed a pilot project on authentic and authoritative source of weather infor­ SW!, focusing on tropical cyclones in the western mation on the Web with the backing of WMO Mem­ North Pacific, i.e. the ESCAP/WMO Typhoon Commit­ bers will be a strategic step forward in elevating pub­ tee region. Hong Kong, China, took up the task of lic weather services operated by NMSs to the hosting a demonstration site and has been requested international arena. It would also provide an opportu­ by CBS to continue developing the pilot project with a nity to nurture an appreciation that official and reli­ view to making the Website accessible by all users. able forecasts come from those who operate a highly The CBS PWS Expert Team on Warning and Fore­ regulated network of weather observations under the cast Exchange Issues (Montreal, July 2000) developed auspices ofWMO. an initial framework for the exchange of city forecasts The WMO Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) among WMO Members. The CBS at its 12th session has embraced these ideas and decided to embark on (Geneva, November/December 2000) agreed that, as a pilot projects to establish two WMO Websites focus­ pilot project, a collecting centre should be designated ing on severe weather information (SWI) and world to collect the weather forecasts supplied by participat­ cities forecasts (WCF). The main objective of the two ing NMSs to generate an integrated product of major Websites is to meet the insatiable demand for city forecasts around the world. The Commission fur­ weather information worldwide, while, at the same ther agreed that Hong Kong, China, would take the lead in developing the concept in the form of a Web­ Hong Kong Observatory, Hong Kong , China site and as the collecting centre. The pilot project File Edit V~w Favorites Took Help I. AJ!dress ~~ titp:IAyphoon.worldweather .orgl -::J ~Go

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Select Region ... Alrica Weather Forecast ... Asia - Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat • Europe I> N.& Central America 26 Jun 27 Jun 28 Jun 29 Jun 30 Jun Ill> S. America I> S.W. Pacific \Veother Pilot Project Swu~ __Swmy Cloudy Cloudy LightRai.t~ Participating Memben ------SeMch Te mperature ~~ 27- i} 27- ") 26- 29 27- \0 25- 29 Links Contact Note to User Climatological Information Dlsclalmel' ~ Mean Temperature ~ = Home ...,ln Days ''11·11 ~~'11" ' ,. S' il !l t' t!!' •aa··wwm·· . • n- lhe web~le Is developed and ID 13.6 18.6 23A 5.6 maintained by th e~ ObservMory W you hiive any ID 13.9 18.6 ~8 . 0 8.9 suggestions, please send us m'll- ~~5 21.3 66.9 10.1 ~ 20.2 2-1.9 161.5 11.1 was also to be launched in the form of an operational NMSs providing the information will be prominently trial involving as many Members as possible sending displayed. Hyperlinks to the NMSs' Websites, if avail­ their city forecasts to the collecting centre. able, wi ll also be included. At the time of writing (July SWIWebsite 2001), th e number of participating Members was (http:/ /typhoon.worldweather.org/) already approaching 100, i.e. more than half the WMO membership. This is a very encouraging sta rt and a Tropical cyclones have been chosen as the starting clear sign of solidarity among Members. point for the pilot because of their extensive The pilot project will be implemented in phases. impacts that transcend national boundaries. Their Phase I will consist of static pages containing clima­ typi ca l longevi ty of a week is ideal for day-to-day tological information and links to the Members' Web­ news coverage without overstepping the limit of the si tes. This is to ensure that virtually all Members can audience's attention span. It is visually captivating participate and gain the they deserve. A and hence well suited to TV treatment. demonstration version of the Website will be con­ The western North Pacific basi n was chosen as structed for participating Members to view and com­ the trial domain for geographical convenience. Most ment. The WCF Phase I pilot Website, with climatolog­ Members of the ESCAP/WMO Typhoon Committee ical data such as mean daily maximum and minimum have already set up operational arrangements to con­ temperatures, mean number of rain days, and mean tribute to the pilot Web site. A few others have also monthly total rainfa ll, etc., will commence operational indicated their intention to take part in the joint ven­ trials around the end of 2001. Phase II of the project ture. For participating Members with existing Web­ will include forecasts of world cities for the foll owing si tes, signals and links can be dynamically updated few days. The operational trial is expected before the through the provision of formatted text files placed end of 2002 . St ill tentative and in the conceptual 305 on their Websites. Static links will also be provided stage, it is thought th at the Website might poss ibly pointing to the relevant pages. Members not having a include past as well as current weather informat ion in Website can se nd related static information to the later stages of development. Hong Kong Observatory via the WMO Global Telecom­ More to be gained and more to be done munication System or other conventional means. Messages received will be posted with minimal pro­ While there are bound to be cautious scepticism and cessing. The range of information th at could be found teething problems surrounding the two embryonic in or through the Website would include tropical Websites, the initial response from Members has been cyclone position, intensity, movement, forecasts and extremely encouraging. We at the Hong Kong Obser­ warn ings, local observational data and weather con­ vatory will do our best to ensure that th e information ditions, weather maps, satellite and radar images, etc. provided by NMSs is utilize d to the best effec t. In Working on a prototype design, feedbacks from recent years, NMSs have been under a grea t deal of WMO and Typhoon Committee Members have been pressure deriving from the prevailing climate of glob­ incorporated into a beta version of the pilot Website. alization and commercialization. By being part of the The operational trial commenced in the latter part of new Websites, the NMSs are in effect making a firm the 2001 tropical cyclone season. Should the Website statement that they have a functional and indispensa­ prove that the concept is viable, th e idea co uld then be ble role to play, both nationally and internat ionally, in extend ed to cover other basins. Indeed, CBS has indi­ the provision of a worldwide weather se rvice with cated a wish to pursue the long-term development of basic weather observations, forecasts and warnings as the concept to cover other major weather events and its integral parts. In emb racing globaliza tion and other regions of the globe. reaping the benefit of enhanced exposure through the WCFWebsite international media, the NMSs are showing the (http://www. worldweather.org/) audacity to raise their profiles, earning recognition from the international community in the process as The pilot project aims at strengthening the recogni­ well as generating more support from their respec tive tion of th e public weather services that NMSs provide governments in the maintenance and development of and facilitating the accessibility of such se rvices by meteorological operations. When the NMSs are pre­ the public and the media. The Website will display cli­ pared to stand up and be counted, collaborating matological information and forec as ts for the next closely through the new Websites under the WMO few days for selected cities, giving temperature range banner, the iss ues of single voice and attribution can and weather. The name and logo of th e participating also be readily resolved. If the va lues of the new Websites can be suc­ When such a level of commitment is attained, then cessfully demonstrated through the pilot run, we we can aim for a more dynamic Website with the hope th at more NMSs will be attracted to the proj­ inclusion of other integ rated and va lue-added prod­ ects. Moreover, participating NMSs will find extra ucts. By that stage, it wi ll then only be a matter of incentives in playing a more active role in the devel­ time before SW! and WCF merge naturally into one opment of the Websites. Even tu ally, we hope to con solidated "World Weather Website". In effect, as establish consistent mechanisms for the exchange of the WMO Secretary-General wrote in his letter to data and to set up a database to accommodate the NMSs, "the meteorological community wou ld be transmitted information. This requires extra effort serving the world better while establishing a visible and goodwi ll on the part of contributing NMSs. pres ence at the same time".

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By Jim Fenix *

The Internet has fast become a pri­ To view a local radar, select area of interest and click on the image below. RADAR REHECTIVIlV FRII1 RADAR CODED MESSAGES mary means for the general public, METEOROLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT LABORATORY NATIONAL WEATIIEB SERVICE government, and commercial Web- AP/CLUTTER EDITING APPLIED 306 surfers to obtain weather inform a- JUN 28, 2111 18: t 6 UTC tion. It is heavily used for access both to Web presentations contain­ ing subject information and as an interactive service with capabilities such as e-commerce and e-mail. It can therefore be used for obtaining large amo unts of meteorological and hydrological data through file transfer using File Transfer Proto­ col (FTP) and by presentations of weather on Web-pages. What is the Internet? It is best

defined as a network of networks 50 DBZ 45 DBZ and viewed as a single communi­ • 49 DBZ cations that reaches every 30 DBZ • ~5 DBZ country of the globe. It is being • used by every part of commerce An excerpt From the Doppler radar mosaic Weft.poge: http:jjweather.noao.govjradorjmosaic and, therefore, a world community of users. The Web is popular for providing a quick rooms and the laptop computer is as common as a brief­ update on hotel availability and room reservations, case. Most business offices have access to the Internet on purchasing air travel tickets, renting cars, auctioning desk-top computers and the home population of Internet off merchandise, trading, checking on the commodi­ users is growing daily. This new Internet-wise world pop­ ties market-and the latest local weather observation ulation is expecting to find everything it wants and to find and/or forecast. it quickly on the Web. A clipping from a news article by This utilization of the Internet has grown signifi­ Mark Thristan (http://uk.internet.com (24 May 2001)), cantly over the past few years. It is accessible in many hotel illustrates this growth on Internet access by the public.

Chief, Telecommunications Sohwore Branch, Telecommunications Operations Center, US Notional Weather Service, Webmoster for headquarters Web services and a member of severa l WMO Commission for Basic Systems, Open Programme Area Group, Information Systems & Services, Expert Teams. The views expressed herein ore those of th e author, and do not necessari ly represe nt th ose of the US N otional Weather Service. According to Net\falue, the addition of 800,000 across the USA. The Webfarm has become a one-stop new Internet users in the UK la st month means shop for many seekers of weather information. The that 2.3 million home Net users have got them­ NWS Headquarters provides we ll over 12 240 000 selves connected since the beginning of the yem; Web-pages a week during a typical weather period. taking the total UK home online population to Statistics on a typical weather period in May 200 1 13.6 million. show hourly users on a cluster of Web servicing sys­ What does this mean to the Weather Services of tems. Daily customer usage runs like a roller coaster the world? The Internet is a viable new means by through the day and night as shown in the figure which weather information ca n be provided to the below. When special weather events occur, the inter­ public. The extensive Internet within the USA enables active customer demand can peak at well over 45 000 access to over 220 commercial Websites involved in users an hour during the day. the weather business in some way. The US (NWS) as a government organi­ 15 000 ' zation has a mission to ~~_!\ ( j\ ('\ (v ~'\ ~ --/\ protect life and property. ~ As a result, it has a vast ~ IQQQQ 1 / '-·'' L '-'·j -I\,, 'o ~ ~-:,;.\---r----\- } .~\ ------~---r-~ ,g ----- \-;------\------\ -- amount of meteorologi­ I \ . V• \ \,; \ cal and hydrological 'V V - ' V information that is avail­ 5000 ~ ~------able to the Web. Each NWS forecast office has a 307 Website with access to ~ the Internet and provides 0 0 0 0 0 0 o o o a o a 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 local weather products. ...-i 00 M 0 U) N ~ N ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 00 M 0 ~ N ~ N m ~ ~ 0 0 0 ...... 0 ...... 0 0 0 0 ...... 0 0 0 0 ...... 0 ...... 0 0 0 0 ...... The challenge in this constantly expand- (usfomel demond on o typicol weothe1 week in Aloy 200 I ing Web technology environment is Website availabil­ ity and good HyperText Markup Language (HTML) Today, the NWS provides observations, forecasts, page design. These are some of the tools needed to warnings, severe weather ou tlo oks, climate, and permit the public to find the information it seeks. The extended for ecas ts. These products can be reached public does not want ju st to see an advertisement with browser applications on any Internet-connec ted about the data provider, it seeks information; the computer platform running Windows or Unix soft­ weather forecast is a popular product that it wants to ware. The Automated Surface Observing System sur­ find-and find eas ily. Th is ca lls for innovative solu­ face reports (generated in METAR code) are provided tions and the keys to these solutions include reliabil­ in near-real-time. The reports are also provided with ity and accessibilit y, together with a growing area of a textu al rendition for public interpretation. The lat­ Web-page design called usability. This new area of est local forecast is provided dynamically in a text­ expertise is an emerg in g separate technology field of readable form at the click of the mouse on a graphi­ Web-page construction. The results are the ability to cal map (see Uniform Resource Locator (URL) design a Website which enables viewers to find what http://weather.noaa.gov/pd/index.html). is wanted easily and to always know where they are The model products that are made as image on the Website-not just the Web-page. This comes maps (facs imile charts) display and print easily from from the careful design of Web-pages to permit rapid standard Web browsers. Many of the maps are avail­ access to every possible product the Weather Service able in both standard Graphics Interchange Format produces and has available online. (GIF) code format and in standard Tagged Image File Managing Website access is a growing technique Format (TIFF) code format. The TIFF format allows in the Internet market. At the NWS, it has been a chal­ the user to zoom in on areas of the chart. Other com­ lenge to design and implement these services and puter-generated forecast products can be down­ make them readily avai lable during all weather loaded, displayed, and manipulated with special events. At present, several clusters of servers deployed applications on the personal computer after receipt. as Webfarms in Washington DC provide access to all The NWS has display software ca lled PCGRIDDS, the observations, warnings and forecasts produced which can be downloaded for general use. The data from the NEXRAD sys tems are processed into a set of The ability to provide this volume of data images and generated as a radar mosaic. This has derives from th e Lo cal Area Network (LAN) connec­ become a very popular radar product (see figure on tivity design. To support a peak volume of data this page 306). The display gives the Internet community a large, the WMC Washington LAN connectivity to the quick view of general weather events across the USA backbone of the Internet is at several Internet Point­ with time laps animation. Even the local live radar Of-Presence (POP) connections managed by major mosaic can be displ ayed with a click of the mouse on telecommunication companies in the Washington DC the national map. area . Hence, this server farm has direct Optical Car­ The Internet is an excellent way for a National rier 3 speed (155.52 megabits per second) connectiv­ Meteorological or Hydrological Service to show prod­ ity speed to two major network POPs and a connec­ ucts to the public, to demonstrate that the Service is tion to the "Internet 2" (Next Generation Initiative) working for them and will always be a dependable network which has speed capability up to 9.6 gigabits source for weather information. It is important that per second. This is obviously more connectivity than the Web presentations are well designed, that servic­ most NMHSs would need. The extent and use of the ing platforms have scalability and are reliable and Internet within a country will pl ay a large part in available when the community wants weather infor­ determining the connectivity speed required to sup­ mation. This is a window to the world and can be port the expected customer base. This can only be used as a tool to build up the public's awareness of, estimated and later modified as the audience is better and trust in, its Nat ional Meteorological and Hydro­ determined. It is best to design connectivity that can logical Se rvices. be expanded; as the public knowledge of the service Another important use of the Internet by the increases, access to the Website will increase. 308 meteorological and hydrological community is for How to design Websites and file servers to meet transferring information between users. There is an the demands is a common problem. Time is the best increasing use of TCP/IP (transmission control proto­ answer; the size of the servers and connectivity to the col/Interne! protocol) and FTP. The LDM application Internet might need to be modified. A major part of over TCP/IP is another software application used the experienced traffic load to a Web site is brought extensively by the academic community. about by the ability to find data. This functional capa­ With FTP, the exchange of millions of bytes of bility will bring users back to the Website. forecast model products can be realized. The NWS To be able to find files of observational data and provided 152 366 652 585 bytes of forecast products forecast products, file names and directory-tree stan­ and observations to the public using FTP on 23 May dards are required. For example, standard road maps 2001, which was a typical day. A graph of normal FTP for sub -directories and file names were necessary at activity by one of th e servers for one 24-hour period World Meteorological Centre (WMC) Washington to in May 2001 is given below. The peak ac tivity at spe­ permit the public to locate the desired information. cific times through the day is due to the availability of Web-pages were built to describe the structure on the forecast model products ge nerated by the modelling file servers. These Web-pages are "metadata" about computers of the National Centers for Environmental the server directory and file-name structure. Depend­ Prediction. ing on the size of th e server site and the amount of different types of infor­ IS 000 000 000 mation available online, ] the directory tree can ~ <= take on a somewhat com­ "' 10 000 000 000 ' plex structure. The site ..,~ >. co mplexity is further .0 0 increased by the need for 0 z 5 000 000 000 · · ·~(~~~ \ ~ · > ~~: ~- ·,~~ ·-~ -~~/ _ ; / the pre-processing of data and filing of prod­ ucts based upon the file content. "~ 00000000000 00 00000 00 00 00 The global Internet 00000000000 00 00000 00 00 OD N.:..iN M ~U;;~~OO.;)O.:iN.:.iN M ~LQ~r-:OOo-lO..:..i is achieving a higher and ..-1000000000.--t ...... 00000 00 00 ...... higher reliability, giving Normal FTP activity of o FTP server for one 24·hour period in May 2001 Weather Services an opportunity to use it to exchange data. The NWS RTH \V a~hington is experimenting with the implementation of both a WMO Bulletin Input Service Web -page form input usin:a page and file transfer Web Page Entry Form using FTP for receiving observational data and RTH Waslin~on has nnplemented aport~ for the delivery of limited amoWJts of data direc~ to the RTH usingstandard IITfP and aweb browser. The primary use is for loc~ NMCs wlricb may expe rience short GTS circuit outages. Access to this ser.ice requires prior establishment with the RTH. This text forecasts from po~ is aviiilable through the World-Wide -Web. remote locations. This is an added functional FfP Input Service capability enabled by I Guidm mto trusmit WMC Wa shington for WMO Bulletins Within Files places where local com­ munications at the data RTH Waslin~on has nnplemented aport~ for the delivery ofWMO bulletins direc~ to the RTH usingffie transfers with standard ITP. Atransfer offfies provider's location are which contain \VMO bulletins can be delivered either tlrough dedicated circuits orthe Internet. Access to this service requires the establshment of an not dedicated. The capa­ accoWJt with the RTH. This port~~ aviiilable through ~e World-Wide-Web. bility is announced on the Web-page farm input page and file transfer using FTP for receiving observational do to and text forecasts from remote locations WMC Website through http:jjwww.nws.nooa.govj osoj cirwit.shtml. documentation that includes instructions for use. The announcement of good Web-page construction and by notification to this functional enhancement is viewable at this Inter­ the major Web search portal companies about your 309 net URL address: Website. Some major Internet "dot corn" World Wide http:llwww.nws .noaa.govlosolcircuit.shtml. Web directory portals are "Yahoo.com", A clip-out of this page (shown above) announces "AltaVista.com", "MSN.com" and "go.com", which can the capability of the two new services, which are list a homepage so that the data seekers on the Web implementations of the two communication applica­ will find it. Active pursuit of these services can help tions, HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and FTP. raise the homepage visibility of your Website. Major Details on how to use the services are explained points to page construction are in the "META'' tags through Web-page presentations, including the con­ built into the HTML page which are not displayed by trolled connectivity arrangements necessary to per­ the Web-page browser. The META tags are part of the mit the transfer of the information. This coordination standard tool set that is used in building an HTML is done through the popular Internet e-mail applica­ document for rendering by computer browsers for tion. The data being delivered are required in the display on the computer screen. standard WMO bulletin format. The link to the Web­ The NMHS that includes the Internet as a means page explaining the FTP data-delivery process can be of providing data soon realizes that its centre's opera­ seen at URL: tions are enhanced and that it develops a closer rela­ http://www. n ws . no a a. gov I os o I ftp ingest. h t m I tionship with the community it serves. The use of the with details on file structure and content format Internet also enhances NMHS data exchange and along with the file transfer FTP establishment with acquisition capabilities. This was shown with the WMC Washington. All data received are immediately newer functional capabilities described above by made available for switching onto the Global WMC Washington for data acquisition by an NMC Telecommunication System. The Web-page begins with access to the Internet. with the connectivity instructions, including how to The community seeking meteorological infor­ request implementation of the capability in detail mation can now contact the NMS and receive a (see clip-out overleaf). This is a good example of response, no matter the distance or time of day, with­ using the interactive functionality of the Web browser out the use of a telephone and the contact can be doc­ and e-mail for the customer to communicate with an umented. The "contact us" or "feedback" link on a NMHS. The outcome is an established process to homepage of an NMHS Website can become a power­ increase data acquisition using inexpensive, widely ful tool. With the use of e-mail, an NMHS can become available standard software. a real, not abstract, service for the public. The NMHS The ability to make a Website known to the is now a visible, unmysterious source, seen as serving Internet community at large is accomplished through the public and easily reached via the Internet. The management overhead to be able to respond to e-mail services can modify the workload of a Meteorological Service FTP Input Ser-vice and should not be over­ Guidance Documentatilm lt

looked or unsupported. This cap ability requires prior es:tablislunent of an accowtt. Nevertheless , th e co st You may email_a J request for an accolUlt ] to RTH \Vashington.

can be worth the good NOTICE 11us is an automatic file transfer process and every submission will be dissenunated world­ human relationships it wide as detennined by the routing established for the WMO abbreviated heading you use in the brings. The Meteorolog­ bulletin contained in the file. l11e provider is responsible for the content. ical Service and the pub­ lic are brought clo ser FILE STRUCTURE for BULLETIN CONTENT and awareness in the minds of th e public of File Handling Process the importance of its This portal can receive observational and forecast product \VMO bulletins as contents of a file . The file s are uploaded to the RTH using standard FTP. After the initial account implementation is progranuned and established, file transfers can begin. All meteorological services files will be automatically processed by the RTH upon receipt As the files contain bulletins for delivery on the GTS, there is no additional metadata files required The WMO bulletins are removed from the file s and irrunediately switched by the RTH. is increased. The received file s will be erased from the receiving file server sub directory. The standard \VMO bulletins will be handled A look to the future just like they were received from any GTS circuit. The file names can only be dupicated monthly. If the Internet is used as the path for delivery. the RTII may not always be reachable. shows even more oppor­ tunities as technology FTP Input Sei'Vice Rules and Dermitions 310 develops. The growing First part af the link to the Welrpoge explaining the FTP data-delivery process with details on file construction and content population of users of http:/jwww.nws. nooo.gov/oso/ ftpinqest.html wireless hand-held devices and digital phones have the capability of con­ the Website community is diminishing. There is an necting to the Internet. The development of information abundance of specialized Internet Service technology is providing the access. A Website can be in Provider (ISP) vendors (now called "XSP" serv­ the palm of your hand; it's a matter of Web -page con­ ices), which can provide hosting services of all struction as to how much meteorological information kinds. They are available to support the require­ can be made available. For example, the NWS has the ments of an NMHS if local technical expertise is USA selected cities three-day forecasts available as wire­ lacking. A recent article on network computing at less ready Web-pages . The URL is http://www.nws.noaa.gov/UScities . @ html. The pages are specifically Prefer£>nces Sh built for that purpose and navi­ gation through them is simple. A =». Microsoft 'w'eb.Sites:: 8l. MSN 'Web Sites (@ Appl• (@ \!/MO ADDRESS BOOK @ Version Tr-acker selected state in the list provides FPUS42 IMFL 212004 a page that lists the cities in the City Forecast for Miami, FL state for which there is a three­ Issued Wednesday afternoon - Jun 27, 2001 day forecast. By se lecting the Wednesday night city name, the forecast is dis­ Low 81, 60% chance of precipitation. played as seen in the illustration Thursday , high 88, 70% chance of precipitation. opposit e. Thunsday night Internet access is growing. It Low 78, 30% chance of prectpttatton. will be in every hou sehold or Friday business and a part of every Portly cloudy, high 89. wireless phone and palm organ­ Friday night Low 78. izer in the not-too-distant future-and the NMHS s should take advantage of it. How does National Weather Service ~nerated0743 UTC, Thursday, Jun 28, 200 1 an NMHS develop this portal to Document URL http ://we atl1er.no ••-gov/ c gi-bin/fintbltn.pl?file=fore casts/city/!Vmiami .t xt the Internet? The co st for a Meteorological Service to join An example of US NWS selected ciffes three-day forecasts hl1o:!jwww.nws.noao.qov/U5cities.html http://www.nwc.com/1211/121lfl.html describes the Weather Services of the world. See the WMO Web­ concept of the changing ISP services in an article page at URL http://www.wmo.ch/indexflash.html to titled "Untangling the XSP Web" (28 May 2001) . view the growing list of countries. The next step is for Website implementation by The final step is to design a Website and the NMHS. A growing number of NMHSs have Web­ make the weather information easy to locate­ sites. They can be located and viewed by visiting the customers will return to the Website as their WMO Website that functions as a portal for the favourite Internet weather source! lloortrgrroorgrt rn;p;pail~rnrtil®OO$) iloo rt!JJrg JKrgooyrn liMJrgrtrg®rr®a®?Efl~rna }]))rg;prnrrft1mrgoort

By Samwel M ACHUA, Peter M uTA! and Peter A MBENJE*

Introduction In order to meet its responsibilities, KMD has to The Internet provides a variety of services that are rely on good telecommunication networks. Like most used by people from all walks of life. Meteorology and Meteorological Services in Africa, KMD has in the other related sciences have benefited from the Inter­ past been faced with the problem of collecting and net mainly because of the ability to exchange data, transmitting real-time or near-real-time data arising 311 both in real-time and delayed mode, among the scien­ from poor telecommunication infrastructure. Efforts tists in these fields. The major uses of Internet by sci­ to improve the telecommunication networks did not entists in the field of meteorology are: achieve significant progress, until recently, because of Meteorological data and weather information the slow pace in telecommunication development in exchange; the Region. For instance, until1995, the telecommuni- Access to learning tools; cation service provider in Kenya could provide only Access to software tools; an analogue leased line with a maximum speed of Publications of research activities; 14.4 Kbps. During the same period, there was only one Access to advanced centres with appropriate Internet service provider (ISP) with a bandwidth of products for specific applications. 9.6 Kbps. The case of the Kenya Meteorological Faced with a high demand for data from the Department NMCs and DMCN, the KMD and Meteo-France signed, in 1996, a bilateral agreement for the upgrading of the The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) is a existing link of 14.4 Kkbps to a 64 Kbps digital leased de signated WMO Regional Telecommunication Hub circuit. The line carries both the WMO Global (RTH) with the responsibility to collect and transmit Telecommunication System (GTS) and Internet traf­ meteorological data to the associated National Meteo­ fic. This access to the Internet changed the data and rological Centres (NMCs). It also provides processed information flow quite considerably-on time recep­ data to the associated NMCs and provides an inter­ tion and distribution. face between NMCs and the World Meteorological Being the first institution in Kenya to have a Centres (WMC s) by formatting and distributing high-speed Internet link, KMD has been providing global products to meet the requirements for the access thereto to several institutions, including Region. KMD also hosts the Drought Monitoring Cen­ UNESCO, the Regional Centre for and tre Nairobi (DMCN), which serves the 10 countries of Mapping, Climate Network Africa, Africa Water Net­ the Greater Horn of Africa as a regional climate diag­ work, the University of Nairobi, the Uganda NMC and nostic centre, where information related to drought the United Republic of Tanzania NMC. and weather patterns is produced. The Internet and meteorology As in all NMCs, the meteorological communication Kenya Meteorological Deportment, P.O. Box 30259, systems in Kenya have, in the past, been used mainly Nairobi, Kenya for exchanging information among meteorologists. The Internet has changed this trend. It provides a The transfer of the input data into the regional means of complementing the GTS, especially for non­ model is through the Internet. Before Internet real-time data from areas where it is not feasible to access, these input data used to take almost one establish specialized communications. It is also giv­ month to reach DMCN. ing users of meteorological information more direct Problems faced in the development and timely access, and offers a method of delivering of the Internet relevant information to a wide range of users through the weather Website. It has been observed that many Benefits obtained from the Internet are so immense users of weather information are now receiving this that the service is attracting users all over the world. information through the Internet, either directly The Internet can become so congested, however, that through electronic mail or file transfer, or indirectly the data communications rate at times is very low. through a Website. This opens possibilities for Other problems are: increasing the value-added services from meteorol­ The cost of Internet services is still high ogy, because data delivered across the Internet are (64 Kpbs international digital leased line costs likely to be quantitative and potentially available for US$ 8 500 per month); further processing by the customer. Internet service providers have the point of KMD hosts a regional project called Drought presence (POP) in major towns only; Monitoring for the Greater Horn of Africa. The main The telephone network infrastructure is unable responsibility of this project is to provide "timely cli­ to support voice and data in most parts of the mate information and prediction services and country; enhanced applications of such products in order to Frequencies (ISM band) for wireless network­ 312 reduce climate- and weather-related risks to food ing are licensed, unlike other countries, where it security, water resources and health for sustainable is free; development in the 10 countries that constitute the The quality of service is not guaranteed Greater Horn of Africa". The operations of the because of unpredictable Internet traffic levels; Drought Monitoring Centre require timely exchange The security of data and computer systems of climate data and products between the participat­ cannot be guaranteed because of the increase ing countries, the centre and users of the informa­ in viruses and hackers; tion. When the Centre started operations in 1991, There is no Internet exchange point for route­ delays used to be encountered in the availability of ing local traffic through to the local networks near-real-time data from the participating countries operated by the ISPs, i.e. local traffic from an for processing into drought-related products. The ISP travels to the international access points installation of e-mail capabilities in most of the coun­ before coming back to another ISP within the tries and institutions has significantly minimized country; these delays. This has facilitated uninterrupted timely The provision of an international telecom­ production of vital products used for mitigation of munication link is still a monopoly of the impacts related to climate extremes such as floods Government. and droughts in the subregion. The way forward The Centre has recently acquired a super com­ puter to carry out regional dynamical modelling In the face of increased demand for bandwidth and activities to supplement current forecasting products. the high cost of Internet access in Kenya, the way for­ The initial boundary conditions for the regional spec­ ward is to install a two-way VSAT between all RTHs tral model that is being customized are obtained and, if possible, the NMCs. The initial cost of from Global Climate Model outputs generated at the installing a VSAT is high but it is the long-term cost­ International Research Institute for climate predic­ effectiveness that makes it the most viable solution tion (!RI) in the USA. for the Region.

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By Charles DUNCAN*

By the time you read this, it will be out of date! Such There were several reasons for this: most people is the speed of Internet development that traditional found it easy to put "documents" on the Web but dif­ publishing cannot keep pace. Is this rapid evolution a ficult to create genuine interactivity; the novelty of good thing? Can it be harnessed? Can it be ignored? hyperlinks led to their over-use and the phenomenon Remember that only five years ago there were of being "lost in hyperspace"; there was little oppor­ no major uses of the World Wide Web for education tunity to learn from a community as there is through and training in meteorology. Now, there are a grow­ social interaction on a residential course. ing number of useful Web-based resources-see the As the importance of communication became box overleaf for details of a few of the many useful more obvious, two basic modes of Web-based com­ Websites. It is pointless to describe Web-based learn­ munication became apparent: synchronous and ing, it is much better to experience it. Please try some asynchronous. Synchronous is the form we are all of these sites yourself. most familiar with, when two people are able to com­ Rather than try to describe Web-based learning, municate at the same time either face-to-face or let's look at the past and the future by considering through a telephone conversation. In the early days 313 two questions in some detail: of the Web, synchronous communication could be What is different about the Web that has made supported through "chat" -the ability to type con­ its adoption for training so rapid? versations. Although typing slows down the commu­ Has progress stabilized, or are more innovations nication, it also allows people time to think and it is around the corner? easy for a record of the conversations to be kept and Computer-based training (CBT) has a long his­ for others to view the conversation-in this sense, a tory but only really started to have an impact in conversation can act in the same way as a classic meteorology in the late 1980s and early !1990s. At Socratic dialogue. Many people have learned philoso- that time, the establishment of the mouse as a uni­ phy from the recorded conversations, discussions or versal input device and window-based graphical user arguments between Socrates and his students. Nowa- interfaces at last made it possible for anyone to easily days, audio-conferencing is becoming common and interact with a computer. In 1992, multimedia PCs video-conferencing is also available. emerged and the use of audio and video spread rap­ On the other hand, the Web is ideal for asyn­ idly, although some pioneers such as COMET (see box chronous communication, where people are not overleaf) had already used video for a couple of available at the same time. The traditional equivalent years. Before the Web impinged on the global con­ might be postal correspondence. The modern equiv­ sciousness, two of the three key elements of what has alent, e-mail, is fast and convenient and can also sup­ now been labelled e-learning were already estab­ port documents, images, spreadsheets and charts. lished: interactivity and multimedia. What the Web Other forms of asynchronous communication which added is the element that was always missing from have developed strongly on the Web include "discus­ CBT and yet is universally recognized as an essential sion boards" or "forums". These allow people to pose part of education and training: communication. By questions without knowing who might offer combining interactivity, multimedia and communi­ answers-the community exists but it is global cation, it became possible to deliver online learning rather than local. Many people learn through discus­ embodying the same elements as the best face-to­ sion forums without even contributing to them, sim­ face learning. In retrospect, this appears obvious, but ply by reading the discussions. This is equivalent to early use of the Web failed to live up to its potential. the quiet student in the bar or coffee room who learns a lot simply by listening to others. (See for example EuroMET in the box overleaf.) Deportment of Meteorology, The University of Edinburgh, Kings Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3JZ. Scotland In summary, the reason the Web has been an E·moil: [email protected] effective tool for education is that it has enabled these three essentials, interactivity, multimedia and What does th e future hold? It is always difficult communication to come together. However, the tech­ to guess what the next technological development nological aspect of automation should not be forgot­ might be but it is much easier to identify new uses of ten. The Web allows learning to be widespread but existing technology. Technolo gy is particularly effec­ coming from a single so urce. It has removed the need tive when it provides solutions to problems we ca n for sending out flopp y disks or CD-ROMs and worry­ identify but cannot easily so lve. ing about which version students are using. It allows What is the key to mak ing the Web more than a real-time data to be used rather than old case-stud­ coll ection of useful resources? The answe r is-meta­ ies, because it is easy to au tomatically include the data-data about data. Meteorologists are already very latest sa tellite images or charts (e.g. SATREP in very familiar with metadata. A satellite image is much the box below). All of these aspects together have more useful when we know which instrument produced the most rapid and significant changes, acqu ired the image, which channel was used, the both in the way training can be delivered and the way instrument resolution (both spectrally and spatially), many people now expect to be taught. Most students the date and time of day, the location, etc.: these are are no longer satisfied with one-speed lectures deliv­ metadata associated with th e image data. ered using the same material as the year before and Similarly, elements of learning material, often the year before that. referred to as "learning objects" are much more use-

SOME EXAMPLES OF E-LEARNING RESOURCES (IN NO PARTICULAR ORDERl ARE:

314 Satellite Report (SATREP) incorporating the "Manual of synoptic satellite meteorology: conceptual models and case-studies" (http://www.knmi .nl /satrep/). Participating institutions: Central In stitute for Meteorology and Geodynamics, Austria (ZAMG), Finni sh Meteorological Institute (FMI), Royal Netherlands M eteorological Institute (KNMI), European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT)

COMET: Cooperative Program for Operational Meteorology Education and Training http://www.comet.ucar.edu/. Includes around 30 different modules (http://www.comel.ucar.edu / modules/ ) and case-studies.

VISIT: the Virtua l Institute for Satellite Integration Training is a joint effort involving NOAA-NESDIS Cooperative Institutes, the National Environmental Satellite Data and Information Service (NESDIS), and the National Weather Service (NWS) in the USA. The primary mission of VISIT is to accelerate the transfer of research results ba sed on atmospheric remote-sensing data into NWS operations using distance education techniques (http://www.cira.colostate.edu/ramm/visit/visithome .asp).

EuroMET: European Meteorology Education and Training (http://euromet. meteo. fr I and http://www.euromet.met.ed .ac.uk/ ). More than 20 participants from most European countries, Canada and Australia. A total of 130 modules on many aspects of satellite meteorology and numerical weather prediction.

ASMET: African Satellite Meteorology Education and Training. See http://www.meteo.go.ke/imtr/asmet.html for information on this project to help African weather forecasters receive training in the proper utilization of satellite data using modern technology. The ASMET modules are available at http://www.comet.ucar.edu/modules/.

Not all computer-based training material is Web-based . Some excellent examples have been produced by Ion Bell at the Au stralian Bureau of Meteorology. His work w ill be downloadable later this year from http://www.training .bom .gov.au/.

WMO Education and Training http://www.wmo.ch/web/etr/etrp98.html and the WMO Virtual Training Library http://www.wmo.ch/web/etr /vtl.html

CAlMet: Computer-aided Learning in Meteorology. http ://www.met.ed.ac.uk/calmet/ is the Website of the SCHOTI (Standing Conference of Heads of Tra ining Institutes) Working Group on Computer-Aided-Learning. This site contains announcements and proceedings of the CAlMet international con ferences held every two years. 315

Aworkshop of the CAlMer 1999 conference held in Helsinki, Finland haps she/he will do this through knowing her/his own ful when they are labelled with metadata describing strengths but, more likely, her/his personnel records the prerequisite knowledge, the professional level at will show her/his competencies as a result of all which the material is aimed, the time it will take, the her/his previous training. Again using the Web, she/he language, and the learning objectives which can be will search for training which can help her/his satisfied by this "object". Meteorology is in the special achieve the missing competence. This is the stage of position of sharing common data sources, data pro­ matching the problem metadata with the solution cessing and products on a worldwide scale and we metadata. In a metadata-rich world, this meteorolo­ have a long history of cooperation and collaboration gist will be able to use a specialized search engine through the setting of common standards. One of the which will scan all the meteorology training material significant advances recently made by WMO is to in the world, or at least all those who have agreed to begin the process of defining "competencies". The share their material using common metadata stan­ everyday jobs of professional meteorologists are dards, to find training solutions. It is likely that there based on a shared set of competencies (see WMO in will be many useful training resources, just as there box opposite). Not every job in every National Meteo­ are many books on any one topic in a library. The rological Service has the same competencies, but each meteorologist may then use the metadata to sort the service as a whole must have people with these core available resources by order of language, or level of competencies. The definition of competency require­ difficulty, or prior knowledge required, and can ments for tasks is another form of metadata. choose the training material most suited to her/his The real power of Web-based training will needs. Of course, a trainer could also do this on behalf become apparent when we start to use metadata of her/his students to use the widest range of defining problems to match metadata defining solu­ resources to build courses exactly matching the tions. Consider the case of a meteorologist seeking requirements of her/his students. The specialist promotion. She/he might first check out a Website knowledge that a trainer brings to this search is that defining the competencies required for the job she/he different teaching styles can suit different topics and wants. Then she/he will identify which competencies different students and the trainer can even search the she/he has and which she/he needs to acquire. Per- metadata for pedagogical approach. This future world is not far away. Several organi­ meteorological taxonomy that can be agreed zations already see the benefits and international across national boundaries and can be mapped standards are becoming established for the structure between one language and another will have to of metadata*. Two important hurdles still exist: be established; While a common metadata structure is essential, The creation of metadata is no easy task, it is it is just as important to ensure that the words time-consuming and bears no immediate bene­ used as descriptors in the metadata are com­ fit to the original author. If these barriers can mon. The words used are subject-specific and a be overcome, then the potential for sharing and re-using training on a worldwide basis can be See, for example, htip :l/wwwimsprojecl.org / realized.

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By Nancy N. SOREIDE* 316 Background and introduction the world to collect observational data and to receive The explosive growth of the Internet (Figure 1) [1,2] and and distribute meteorological information. Another the advent of the Web [3], coupled with corresponding telecommunications application is transmission of data increases in computing power [4], decreases in comput­ from a sensor by acoustic modem, for example, from the ing costs and advances in information technology have sea floor to a moored buoy with a satellite transmitter revolutionized almost every aspect of climate research. and thence to shore for dissemination by the Web in Environmental sensors in the and the near-real-time [6, 7]. Data are freely available for down­ report data electronically for quality control and load, and customized, dynamically generated plots and immediate dissemination in real-time by the Internet or animations, made from the Web, are immediately and the WMO Global Telecommunications System (GTS) [5], readily incorporated into journal articles or scientific rather than recording internally for later retrieval, analy­ presentations. sis and even further delayed distribution. The GTS is an Customized Websites are providing project-specific integrated global, regional and national network, which information, such as sensor specifications, accuracy, enables operational meteorological centres throughout instrument sampling rates, calibration, quality control and data quality and accu­ 120 000 000 racy, as well as educational lOO 000 000 information, about the cli­ mate phenomena being 80 000 000 ---old investigated. The educa­ 60 000 000 _,.__Adjusted tional pages have had a ---New 40 000 000 significant impact on the availability of scientists 20 000 000 and scientific investiga­ tions to government deci­ c-.. ..,. CO ;;: "" ""' "' "" = 5 sion-makers, students, ::::: :::::"" :::::"" :::::"" :::::"" :::::"" ":::::"" :::::"" :::::"" =c-.. =c-.. c:: c:: c:: c:: c:: c:: c:: c:: c:: c:: c:: teachers and the public. -=: -=: -=: -=: -=: -=: -=: -=: -=: -=: -=: Advances in comput­ Figure I -Internet domain survey host count 1991-200 I (Source: Internet Sohware Consortium (www.isc.org)) ing capability have resulted in more sophisticated com­ NOAA/ PMEL/OD, Seottle, WA, USA puter models running at higher resolution for longer E-moil: [email protected] times on finer grids with a corresponding exponential increase in the size and complexity of the model results. launched a High Performance Computing Moderniza­ Real-time global atmosphere and ocean data modelling tion Programme [17], which includes a Common High and assimilation systems are increasingly feasible. An Performance Software Support Initiative (CHSSI) [ 18]. example is the Global Ocean Data Assimilation Experi­ The Department of Energy's DOE2000 [ 19] pro­ ment, GODAE [8]. Gone are the days when a scientist gramme was initiated to provide infrastructure and contacted the originator of the data by letter or tele­ tools required to support advanced, distributed com­ phone to request the data, received them on a large puting. NASA's 1999 Technology Plan [20] and HPCC magnetic computer tape, paid a specialized program­ programme [21] address similar issues. The business mer to decode the tape, and spent a day or more produc­ world is recognizing similar requirements, as seen in ing a single customized graphic or preparing the data this example from a 1996 resea rch note "Advanced for assimilation into a computer model. visualization tools on the trading floor" [22]: Electronic delivery of science information has had Major investment banks are experimenting with significant impact on science funding and publishing. visualization to analyse risk management, trad­ Abstracts and manuscripts are submitted electroni­ ing management, trading opportunities, data cally, as e-mail attachments or by means of forms on warehousing, and financial . ... Web pages. National and international science pro­ Providers of visualization tool sets will see rev­ grammes and plans (e.g. International Climate Vari­ en ue increase at constant growth rates of over ability and Predictability Programme [9]) and 30 per cent a year for the next five years announcements of opportunity (e.g. the US National It is widely recognized that successful integra­ Science Foundation (NSF) [ 10]) are routinely pub­ tion of fast networks and emerging technologies in lished on the Web, and proposals and proposal visualization, analysis and collaboration software is reviews are submitted electronically through the Web required for improved understanding of the large, 317 or by e-m ail as well (e.g. NSF's FastLane [ 11 ]). Finally, complex, distributed datasets which are coming on- but hardly least, scientific journals, citation indices, line. Emerging technologies illuminate the trends we abstracts and even the full text of journal articles are may follow in our pursuit of improved availability increasingly being made available electronically (e.g. and understanding of climate datasets and model Elsevier Science [ 12 ]). outputs. The challenge Emerging technologies Our ability to understand these large, complex, dis­ 3D visualization tributed datasets depends upon the development of Advances in inexpensive workstation technology, cou­ new methodologies for integrating them with visuali­ pled with good 3D graphics cards, such as those zation and analysis technologies. This challenge has developed for games on PCs, have made 3D graphics been acknowledged throughout the scientific commu­ available to the scientist's desktop. Today, 3D visual­ nity, and is clearly stated in the 1998 Data and izations can be generated easily to allow the scientist Visualization Corridors document [ 13]: to gain insights impossible with older 2D slices Current graphics and visualization technology through the data (Figure 2). Although these tools are cannot effectively cope with the volume or com­ easily, often freely available, and are becoming plexity of new scientific data; this is becoming a increasingly important, they are not universally pacing problem in a number of disciplines embraced by the research community. It is antici­ because the gap between our ability to compute pated that more advanced software-tool development and our ability to make good sense of the data is will require a substantial development effort and will widening. include a mixture of commercial off-the-shelf, aca­ Numerous national programmes, such as the demic off-the-shelf, government off-the-shelf soft­ NSF-sponsored Partnerships for Advanced Computa­ ware, and customized software development. tional Infrastructure (PACI) [ 14], are focused on sup­ Interactive and immersive visualization porting and developing usage of high-performance computing engines and the required infrastructure Emerging technologies, such as interactive and technologies, such as distributed data access and immersive visualization tools [23], are becoming an visualization. PACI supports two partnerships, the integral part of the scientific process because they National Computational Science Alliance [IS] and the provide unprecedented power to explore datasets and National Partnership for Advanced Computational to communicate what we learn in new ways. Virtual Infrast ructure [16] . The Department of Defense has reality techniques allow the scientist not only to visu- 318

Figure 2- Bathymetry in Astaria Canyon offshore from the Columbia River in Washington State. High­ frequency spikes in the bathymetry ore obvious in the 30 plot (bottom) and are obscured in the 20 plot (fop)_

Figure 3 - Animated, interactive VRML representations: (rleh) fisheries oceanography model output showing bothymetry and fish larvae drih paths in the Shelikaf Strait pollock spawning grounds. The position, orientation, and eo/or of the spheres can be manipulated to reflect the mode/ed movement of fish in this coastal region. (Courtesy of D A. Hermann, NOM/ PM EL Fisheri es Oceanography Coordinated Investigations); (bottom) ocean temperature, looking westward across the in the PacificOcean from a vantage point somewhere in the Andes Mountains in South America in la Nina conditions. The shape of the sea surface is determined by TAO Dynamic Height data. (Courtesy of Doi McCiurg, NOM/ PMEL/TAO Project Office, Michoel J. McPhaden, Director http://www.pmel.noao.gov /vrmll. alize large and complex data sets, but also to interact from geographically distributed data archives include with them. One simple interactive visualization tool is NASA's EOSDIS effort [36], the Navy's Maser Environ­ the virtual reality modelling language (VRML), with mental Library [37], the US National Ocea nic and which a scientist can view 3D animations of the data, Atmospheric Administration's NOAAServer project then rotate the image, zoom in or out to see more [38], the Distributed Oceanographic Data System detail, and turn on or off the display of different data (DODS) project [39] and the Alexandria Digital Earth parameters (Figure 3). VRML ca n be presented and Prototype Project [40]. viewed in a Web page [24, 25]. With a 3D graphics card Collaboration technologies and crystal eyes glasses, 3D stereographic VRML can be viewed on a moderately priced PC [26]. Further­ Emerging collaboration technologies increasingly more, VRML visualizations can be used in a shared or allow scientists to utilize fa st networks to share a data collaborative mode via the network, so that scientists visualization, animation or electronic document, even at geographically distributed locations can share data when the scientists are geographically separated at in the same virtual reality environment, interacting different locations throughout the world. With these with the virtual objects, and discussing what they are newly emerging technologies, scientists can use net­ seeing and understanding. works instead of airplanes for collaboration. Time More advanced virtual reality devices [27, 28, 29, and travel cost savings are obvious, and the quality of 30]such as the ImmersaDesk, CAVE, the InfinityWall, interaction for the scientists is much advanced and others [31], provide interactive, immersive vir­ beyond yes terday's methods of working together with tual reality. Immersive devices provide the graphical static, paper-based, or viewgraph-based discussions illusion of being in a three-dimensional space by dis­ of data, analyses and visualizations. Examples of playing visual output in stereo and in a three-dimen­ emerging collaboration technologies include video 319 sional perspective according to head position, and by conferencing, such as Pi ctureTel [41], MBONE , allowing navigation through the space [32]. The abil­ Microsoft NetMeeting [42], Habanero [43], Tango [44], ity provided by such systems to navigate through vir­ and CORBA [45] . tual environments and view the data from different Collaborative virtual environments vantage points greatly increases the ability to perform an analysis of complex scientific data. The impact of Collaborative virtual environments [46, 47, 48] (CVEs) such visualizations is stunning, and must be experi­ have been defined as a key enabling technology by enced to be fully comprehended. Users of these the NGI project. CVEs allow numerous participants to advanced immersion technologies affirm that no collaborate using high-speed networks connecting other techniques provide a similar sense of presence heterogeneous computing resources and large data and insight into their datasets. Furthermore, the stores. The natural matching of fast networks with impact of virtual environments in science, education CVEs was identified by the DoD HPC Modernization and training is dramatically increased if the experi­ Programme [49] : ence can be shared with others. Although th ese tech­ ... great connectivity will in crease researcher nolo gies may seem far in the future, over 195 immer­ demand for remote access to fully interactive 3D sive virtual reality devices, from nine different visualization and collaborative visualization ses­ vendors, were in us e in February 2000 [33]. sions among groups of distributed researchers. As scientists ex plore data with interactive, Using networks to access and integrate immersive visualization tools and share data, analy­ distributed datasets ses and interpretations in a distributed framework, The advent of high-speed networks, such as the Next th ey participate in the definition and design of Generation Internet (NGI) , Internet 2, and Abilene tomorrow's computational infrastructure. [34] with bandwidths of 100 megabits per second and Computational steering or eo-processing higher, coupled with the increasing volume of data of model outputs going online, has led to the requirement for modern, integrated, networked climate-data management and An exciting, new, emerging technology is software access sys tems. This has been identified as a critical which allows interac tive exploration of model out­ issue in several science plans, such as the US Plan for puts, even while the model is running, and includes an Integrated, Sustained Ocean Obse rving System fe atures for interactive 3-D, data fusion, multiple data [35] . A few examples of projects utilizing different views, direct manipulation, collaboration, and virtual technologies towards objectives of integrating data reality. Analysis and computation are integrated with visualization to support computational steering and References othe r complex interaction modes. The requirement [I] Internet Domain Surve y, from the Internet Software for computational steering of a computer model was Consortium, http://mvw.isc.org/ds/hosts.html described in a 1987 report prepared for the NSF [50]: [2] International interne! connect ivity charts for 1997 Th e most exciting potential of visualization tools (http://navigators.com/globe 16b.gif or is ... the ability to test and develop code interac­ ftp: //ftp.cs.wisc. edu/connectiv itv table/Connectivitv Ma p.c olor.bmp) and 1991 tively. The scientist should be able to spot visual (ftp://ftp.cs.wisc.edu/connectivitv table/ ve rsion 2.bmp). anomalies while computing and immediately developed by Larry Landweber and the Internet Society; steer, or modify th e calculations, to test new theo­ direc tly available from ftp: / /ftp.cs.wisc.edu/connectivitv table ries. ... successful interactive computing can dra­ [3] http:/ fl.~~~~v. ne tcraft.com/S ur vev/Repo rts/c urre nt/ grap h s . html matical0' increase the pace of scientific or engi­ [4] lntel Website describing Moore's Law, which states that com­ puting capacity doubles every 18-24 months neering progress. http: // "~~~ v. inte l. co m/intel!museum /2S anniv/ ho f/ moore. htm The DoD HPC Modernizat ion programme [5] Global Telecommunications System refers to comp utational steering as "eo-processing" http:/ /1·1~1~v. wmo.ch/web/"~~~v/TEM/ gts. htm I (rather than "post-processing") computer model [6] US National Hazard Mitigation Program's Deep­ ocea n Assess ment and Reporting of (DART) outputs [49]: mooring system http :l "'~~~v.pmel.noaa.gov / tsunami / Dart / Indeed, for large-data problems, eo-processing [7 ] New Mi ll enn ium Observatory (NeMO), a seanoor observa­ might be the only practical way to visually tor y at an active underwater volcano analyse the data, sin ce post-processing of such http:/ ' "~~~v. pmel.noaa.go v/ve nts/nemo/ realtim e/ lmge data sets is, at best, a daunting task. [8] Global Ocean Data Assimilation Experiment (GODAE) homepage http://www.bom.gov.au/bmrc/ocean/GODAE/ Emerg ing distributed comp uting environment [9] International Cli mate Variability and Predictability (C LI VAR) 320 software, such as VisAD [51] and DICE [52], allows Research Programme homepage http: // \\~~~v. clivar.org / . interactive exploration of model outputs while the [ 10 ] National Science Foundation (NS F) Funding Opportunities, model is running, allowing unparalleled advantages http :/!11~1~v.n s f.gov/ home/ program s/s t a rt.htm in model development and diagnostics. The capability [I I] National Science Foundation (NSF) Fast La ne system for electronic submission of proposals and proposal reviews has been demonstrated, and the improved ability for https: //wm v.fast lane.nsf.gov/fastlane.htm analysis, model development and dynamics is breath­ [ 12] Elsevier Science homepage http :/"'~~~v.e l sev i e r.nl! taking. Additional functionality, already identified in [13] Data and Visualization Corridors, Report on the 1998 DVC documents such as the DoD HPC Modernization Workshop Series. Edited by Paul H. Smith and John van report, include coll aborative analysis and visualiza­ Rosendale. Sponsored by the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation, 1998. ht tp: //w"~v. cacr.ca l ­ tion of simulation outputs as the model runs, and tech.edu /Publications/ DVC/. adaptive mesh algorithms to adj ust grids during a [ 14] http:/ ' "~~~v. intera c t.nsf.gov/ cise / description s. n sf/ model run. 46 14682edb4ce9118525665900483e39/c35975a5 18730 1278 5256Sd90077e 11 2?0penDocument The future [I S] http://access.ncsa.uiuc.edu/ [ 16] http :/fl.1~ 1~v.npac i. edu / npac i home.html The emergin g technologies give us glimpses of a [ 17] http:/ / m1~v.hpcm.dre n.ne t / future potential for sub stantial enhancements in our [IS] http :!i ll~l~v.hp c m . dre n.net/ Htdo cs/C HSS I / index.html ability to access and understand environmental data. [19] http:/ / ll~vw - uni x . mc s. an l. gov/DOE2000/ Our experience with these technologies va lid ates [ 20] http:/ ' "~~~v. hq .nasa.gov/office/codec/codec i / activ iti/plan9899.htm their potential. Realizing this potential will, however, [21) http://hpcc.arc.nasa.gov/ require sustained investments in fast networks, hard­ [22 ) Advanced Visualization Tools on the Trading Floor, Tower ware and software development, and adoption of the Group Research Note Highlights, 31 May 1996. technology will req uire changes in mind set and work [23[ Examples include VisS D, VisAD, Iri s Explorer, AVS, Virtual habits for many scientists [ 13]: Reality modelling Language (VRML) , stereographic VRML, lmmersaDesk, and the CAVE. Data exploration of petabyte databa ses will [24] MOO RE, C.W., D. C. MCCLURG, N.N. SOREIDE,A.j. H ER~ I A N N, require both technology developm ent and C. M. LASCARA, and G.H. WH ELESS, 1999: Ex ploring 3- altered work patterns for research scientists and dimensional oceanographic data sets on the Web using engineers. Virtual Realit y modelling Language. Proceed ings of The emergence of the Internet, the Web, and '99 MTS/IEEE Conference, 13-16 September, Seattle, vVA. [25) See some examples at http: //"~~~v. pm e l.n oaa.gov/vrml. other information technologies rivals the impact of [26) An excellent discussion of the scientific va lue of 3D stereo TV, telephone or radio on information dissemination, imaging and low-cost techniques for utilizing it has been and the potential of these technolo gies in the climate provided on the Web at http : /1 \\~vw. pmel.noaa.gov/ ­ research community is far from being fully rea li zed. herman n/v rml /stereo.html, by AI Hennann, NOAA/PMEL. 1271 http://wmv.evl.uic .edu/pape/CAV E/idesklpaper/ 139] Nati onal Ocean Partnership Website "Development of an 128] http://www.pyramidsvstems.com Integrated Regional, Nationa l and International Data System 129 ] http: // \\~vw.nc sa .uiuc.edu/VR /c avernu s/ u se rs2 .html for Oceanography" 130 ] http ://m,~v. n csa. uiu c.ed u /V R/cavernus/users. html http://core.cast.msstate.edu/noppOOfunds.html#corn. Also l3l] The National Center for Supercomputing Applicati ons see the DODS home page Website desc ribing visualization and virtual environment http: /"'~'~"- un idata. ucar.edulpackages/ clods/. technologies http :/fl,~vw. n csa. uiu c.e du /SC D/Vi s/ F ac iliti esl 140] Alexa ndria Digital Library Website j32] MOORE, C.W. and N.N. SOREIDE, 2001: Using immersive vir­ http :// ''~vw. a l exa ndria . u csb.edu /adl . html and publicati on tual realit y to study oceanographic and atmospheric models list http ://IVII~v.a l exa ndri a .uc sb.edu / fram es3. html. and in situ data. 17th Conference on Interac tive Information 141] http : //\\~VIv.p i c ture t e l. co m / and Processing Systems for Meteorology, Ocea nography, and 142] htt p : l/11~vw. mi croso ft . co m l n e tm ee tin gl Hydrology, AMS, 14-19 January 200 l, Albuquerque, NM, 143] http://havefun .ncsa.uiuc.edu /habanero/ and 343-346. http :// "~'~v.e m s l . pnl.gov :2080/ docs /co llab l 133] From the National Center for Supercomputi ngApplication's 144] http://trurl.npac.svr.edu /handoutltango.html and CAV ER N Users Society Website http:! lwww.ncsa. uiuc.edu/Vis/ Publicationslcoll ab.html http: // I\~VIv. n csa. uiu c.e du /V R /cave rnu s/ 145] http://mvw.corba.org/ and http: /fh~ ,~v.omg.org/ I34 ]1Abilene-traffic-from l999.gif] Screen snapshot showing 146] European Union partnership COVEN: Coll aborative Virtual growth of the high-speed Abi lene research network since Environments effort http://mVIv.comp.lancs.ac.uk/ April l999. computing/ research/cseg/projects/coven/ and http://hvdra.uits.iu.edu/-abileneltrafficchart.html http://coven.lancs.ac. uk/ Copyright information: Indiana Universit y would like users also htt p:/11\~VIv.cg. tuwi en.ac . at/ researc h / vr/ to make productive uses of materials fo und on this Web­ 14 7]http: //c 1~ v. mitre .o rg/ page, particularl y if the uses are for non-profit edu cational 148] http: l!lvl,~v. n csa .uiuc. e du l a lli ance/ partn e rs/ purposes. http: //"~ '~v. indiana .edu / copvright.html EnablingTechnologies/DataAndCollaboration.html 135] US Plan for an Integrated, Sustained Ocean Observing 149] Trends in Graphics and Visuali zation, DoD HPC System http://core.cast.msstate.edu/outline.html Moderni zation Programme, Jan uary 1998. 136] NASA EOSDI S effort http:l/1\~vw.n csa .uiu c.ed u /V i s/ Pub li ca ti ons/ tre nd s. htm l 321 http: f! ,.,~ ,~v - vOim s .g s fc . n asa . govlvO im sla bout eosdi s.html ISO] Visualization in Scientific Computing: a report prepared for 137] Navy's Master Environmental Library http: //mel.dmso. mill the National Science Foundation, 1987. j38 ] DADDIO, E., S. HANKI N, N. SOREIDE, D. DENBO, W. ZHU, S. I5 1] Vi sAD, developed at the University of vVi sconsin, is ROBEI\TS, J. StROTT and S. ROSENBERG, 1999: Unifying access described at http://WIVIV.ssec.wisc.edu/-billh/visad .html . to NOAA 's distributed databases with the NOAAServe r sys­ I52 ] Distributed Interactive Computing Env ironment (D ICE), tem. Proceedings of the 15th International Conference on part of the DoD HPC lVIodernization Programme, is In te ractive Information and Processing Systems for described at http :! /IVIVw.arl.hpc. mii/SciVis/dice/ and Meteorology. Oceanograp hy, and Hydrology, AMS, Da ll as, http ://m,~v. n csa .uiu c.ed u/Vi s/ PET/ ARL!SV /Projects/ TX,I0- 15 January 1999,430-433. DICEVIS. html

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By Wong Chin Ling*

£-services have become the driving force for many business activities in a knowledge-based economy which thrives on innovation and value-adding. This is particularly so in this age of the Internet, where speed of delivery is of the essence. £-services are thus most suited for the time-sensitive nature of meteorological infor­ mation. This paper presents Singapore's experience in e-met services in the context of the different types of electronic channels employed, trends in user access of information through these channels, and the applica­ tion of technology to value-add and develop more innovative applications. (Paper presented at the Third Technical Conference on Ma nagement of Meteorological and Hydrological Services in RA V (So uth- West Pacific), Man ila, Philippines, 23-27 April2001 (see report on pages 337-339 of this issue).)

Introduction tales a fast means of delivery to customers wherever The time-s ensitive nature of meteorological services, they are in the world. The elec tronic means of deliv­ with their rich information-based co nt ent, necessi- ery is therefore bes t suited for such services. A maj or consideration in designing our deliv­ M eteorological Service Singapore ery sys tems is the ease of retrieving a wide array 322

Website of the Meteorological Service Singapore updates round-the-clock, the WIDS telephone hot­ line has enjoyed consistently high access rates, of information at a single point. The processed despite the growing popularity of the Internet and information, in the form of text, voice, graphics the expansion of the local print and broadcast and video, originates from a variety of sources media. The same cannot be said of the Fax-On­ such as satellites, Doppler radar, lightning-detec­ Demand service, which is seeing a steady decline in tion systems and raw data from telecommunica­ access rates. This reflects the growing trend of users tion links. All the information is linked by a net­ switching over to the Internet, where the same work to facilitate its transmission to the various information, packaged in more attractive formats, delivery channels. can be retrieved. Electronic delivery channels To meet the rising expectations of a public accustomed to fresh ideas and products, innovative The channels employed for the electronic delivery services are developed and added to the WIDS from of services include the Internet and Intranet, tele­ time to time. One such service is the automated phone, facsimile and computer-to-computer links. announcement of rainfall and lightning areas Collectively, they deliver more than 99 per cent of detected islandwide via a telephone hotline. The our services to external customers. system, designed and developed in-house, incorpo­ rates a special image-processing and mapping soft­ Weather Information Dissemination ware to analyse and process real-time rain and System (WIDS) lightning data from the Doppler radar and lightning A wide array of meteorological information is detection systems, respectively. A speech synthe­ accessible to the public by telephone, facsimile (Fax­ sizer and recording system converts the processed On -Demand) and pager through an integrated data into voice messages of rain and lightning delivery system known as the Weather Information detected over any of 37 pre-defined regions across Dissemination System (WIDS). With constant the island, and are updated at 10-minute intervals. Internet and Intranet operators daily. This requires a fast and efficient The explosive growth in the use of the Internet has means of delivering flight documentation to the made it an effective and inexpensive delivery tool for operators for departing flights. a global market. Since the inception of our Webs ite For that purpose, a fully automated system (http://www.gov.sg/metsin/) in early 1997, it has regis­ was designed to compile flight docum entation for tered a steady increase in the number of hits, aided by individual flights and transmit the information continual efforts to enhance the usefulness and qual­ from our production centre to the airlines via a ity of the products. For instance, the public can check computer-to-computer link at a specified period out a host of local weather updates, ranging from before the departure flight times. The flight docu­ near-real-time rain areas and three-hour nowcasts to mentation is retrieved by th e recipient through a 12-hour forecasts and a fortnightly weather outlook. PC or workstation. This service is subscribed To better meet customer requirements, dedi­ mainly by the major airlines handling a large cated Intranet-based delivery systems are imple­ number of flights daily. Airline operators also have mented for specialized users. The Aviation Intranet, the option to receive the flight documentation by launched in mid-1997, is accessible to all Singapore­ facsimile . In addition, the link is used to feed a based airline operators and supplements other exist­ full set of upper-air data to our national airline's ing delivery services to airlines. Cus tomers pay only computerized flight planning system. for the costs of product delivery. Access rates to this Automated VOLMET broadcasts service have witnessed a three-fold increase over a two-year period between 1999 and 2000. This encour­ Until the late 1980s, VOLMET broadcasts were car­ aging response signalled a demand for a similar serv­ ried out manually from the initial compilation and ice from other niche users such as shipping operators. decoding of the bulletins to the final voice broad- 323 The Marine Intranet service was thus launched in cast by shift technicians acting as announcers. The mid-1999 and made freely available for a specified process was quite time-consuming and produced a period through a hotlink from our Internet home­ broadcast of inconsistent voice quality. Computer page. Access rates were low initially, as the service was technology was then appli ed to automate the introduced without much publicity, but have since extraction and decoding of the relevant bulletins picked up substantially during the past year. Like the from a real-time databank. The decoded informa- Aviation Intranet, users will be charged only for prod­ tion is fed to a voice synthesizer for further pro­ uct delivery at a later stage. cessing, which in turn triggers a high -frequency In the area of the environment, one of our roles radio broadcast to aircraft. This fully automated as host of the Asean Specialized Meteorological Cen­ system is a vast improvement over the previous tre (ASMC) is to monitor regional transboundary manual system and has been well-received by smoke haze. During smoke episodes, the ASMC is pilots. tasked with relaying information such as daily Conclusion updates of hotspot lo cations, processed satellite images, and winds and smoke dispersion forecasts to Our experience in exp loiting the opportunities environmental agencies in the affected countries. To brought bye-met services has shown good returns enhance the dissemination flow, the ASMC Intranet in customer satisfaction and cost-efficiency of was established in 1998 with restricted access to the operations. More than ever, we are convinced that relevant agencies. As expected, demand for the serv­ e-met se rvices should be the driving force of our ice rises sharply during the dry season, when the business activities. In this Internet age, the prolif­ region is more susceptible to outbreaks of fires and eration of e-met services offered by a multitude of smoke haze. To date, 25 agencies are registered users private and commercial providers would pose of th e Intranet service. greater competition to some NMHSs. By embrac­ ing e-services and leveraging on technology to Computer-to-computer link value-add and develop more innovative applica­ With Singapore being a major regional aviation tions, NMHSs should be well-placed to meet the hub, large volumes of flights are handled by airline challenge.

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No history of meteorology and climatology would be Not only polluted water and water shortages are complete with out reference to vo luntary observers. a threat to human health, but also an excess of water. Since early times, networks of vo lunteers have events such as tropical cyclones, assisted meteorolo gists and hydro logists aro und the hurricanes, severe flooding and landslides provoked world. In many countries, volunteers also contribute by extreme weather cause loss of life, destruction of to ensuring more effective preparedness against property and often create favourable conditions for meteorological hazards. the transmission of various diseases. The theme of World Meteorological Day (WMD) A number of National Meteorological and 200 1 on 23 March "Volunteers for wea ther, climate and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) held joint WMD and water", coincided with the 200 1 UN -designated Inter­ WWD celebrations, including a programme with national Year of Volunteers, was chosen to recognize special activit ies for vo lunteers. These included and give greater prominence to voluntary contribu­ Algeria, Armenia, Australia, the Czech Republic, tions of individuals, governments, academic institu­ Cyprus, Hong Kong (China), Ireland, Jamaica, Kyr ­ tions and civil society. gyzstan, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Macao (China), 324 The role of freshwater is of utmost importance Madagascar, Mali, Mexico, Pakistan, the Russian Fed­ to the ensure and maintain the health of the world's eration, Slo vakia, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, population and to protect them against the threat of Uzbekistan and Zambia. floods and drought. This was reflected in the 200 I The Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute theme for World Water Day (WWD) "Water and (SHMI) awarded 24 of its volunteers with a bronze health" celebrated on 22 March. medal for "Merit in development in hydrology and

WMO 2001 in Hong Kong, Chino - Ayoung visitor enioys o game to re-trace the track of a lyphoon that struck the area. _b~ ~'-

325

The cover of ob rochure published by the Austro/ion Bureau of Meteorology (/eft) and the WIAObrochure (printed in English, French, Russian ond Spanish) (bottom right) on the WMO20 01theme · volunteers for weather, climate and water" and the cover of one of two booklets prepared by the Tunisian Naffonal/nsfftute of Meteorology to raise public awareness af the services it provides published on the occasion of an open da yon 23 Morch (top right). meteorology" and 92 other volunteers received a spe­ were awarded to the voluntary weather observers of cial certificate of merit for "excellent long-term work the six national meteorological region s. The National with SHMI". The Irish Meteorological Service awarded Radio and Television in Mali (ORTM) used the pro­ two exceptional weather volunteers for their many gramme "Ambiance midi", with an audience of thou­ years of outstanding voluntary weather observations. of young listeners, for a special radio contest on The Australian Bureau of Meteorology recognized its the WMD and WWD 2001 themes. ORTM also put out voluntary rainfall and river-height observers, storm­ a special documentary about farmers voluntarily con­ spotters and weather obse rving ships. tributing to the maintenance of agrometeorolo gical Hours of heavy showers in Hong Kong, data in Mali. China, did not deter 6 000 visitors from attending the At the WMO Sec retariat, staff and guests were Hong Kong Observatory Open Day, which offered addressed by Ms Sharon Capeling-Alakija, Exec utive exhibitions and special meteorology games for the Coordinator of the United Nations Volunteers pro­ young and the young at heart. In Uzbekistan, gramme (UNV), who presented the programme and Glavgidromet announced the organization of a the work of the vo lunteers. The Secretary-Gen eral, nationwide Water Conservation Competition nation Prof. G.O.P. Obasi, highlighted perseverance and com­ wide throughout the year 2001. mitment as two of the most common personal char­ All local and regional offices of the Algerian ac teristics of vo lunteers. Sometimes, he noted, they National Meteorological Office opened their doors to carried records of more than 50 years of voluntary the public for 15 days and special certificates of merit se rvice or belonged to the second or even third gener- ation of volunteers . The Secretary-General made spe­ as they provide on-the-scene and up -to-date informa­ cial reference to the WMO Voluntary Observing Ships tion that complements other data coming from satel­ (VOS) Programme under which 6 700 vessels are lites and . These community voluntary network recruited by 52 National Meteorological Services to sys tems offer the advantage of being simple to oper­ record and transmit real-time meteorological and ate and are effective in raising the awareness of rural oceanographic observations. The data obtained con­ co mmunities to the risk to natural disasters. tribute to the efforts of the NMHSs in support of sus­ The WMO video on the theme "Volunteers for tainable development. weather, climate and water" was presented and certifi­ In addition, crucial forecasts during extreme cates were presented to long-serving members of weather events benefit from the availability of critical staff. WMO also produced and distributed a brochure ground-based observations provided by volu nteers. for the occasion with the same title (WMO-No. 919) Volunteer storm-spotters render a worthwhile service and a poster.

WJMI([}) m~CB([;oo1111wCB CC®oooo([;fla Fifty-third session Geneva, 5-15 June 2001

326 Introduction noted proposals made by CBS aimed at ameliorating The fifty-third session of the Executive Council (EC­ the possible impacts on operations and funding of LIII) was held at WMO Headquarters in Geneva from observing networks in developing countries arising 5 to 15 June 2001 under the chairmanship of the Pres­ from the redesign. These proposals included joint ident of the Organization, Dr J.W. Zillman. arrangements by Members to operate observing sta­ The Council discussed WMO's activities since its tions, roving instrument maintenance teams and net­ last session, as well as the major issues facing the working of weather radars. Organization and NMHSs, notably in the context of The Council noted with satisfaction the further the United Nations Millennium Summit Declaration, development of GTS procedures and techniques car­ the global economic, social and political environment ried out by CBS, as well as its work programme, and the planned World Summit on Sustainable towards enhancing GTS services . The Council under­ Development. The Council also reviewed the major lined the importance of operational security measures global and regional initiatives that relate to the man­ when implementing new techniques, as well as impli­ date of the Organization and where it is actively cations related to data-exchange policy. The Council involved for ensuring enhanced visibility and recog­ endorsed the fundamental principles and concepts of nition for its programmes and the role ofNMHSs. the Improved Main Telecommunication Network proj­ Designation of acting members of ect and noted with satisfaction that CBS had estab­ the Executive Council lished a team to foster its early implementation. With respect to radio-frequencies for meteorol­ Five acting members were designated by the Council: ogy, the Council noted the favourable outcome of Dr Qin Dahe (China), Mr H. Mbifngwen Bongmum WRC 2000. Nonetheless, it requested CBS and the Sec­ (Cameroon), Mr A. Ndiaye (Senegal), Mr H.H. Oliva retariat to pursue as a matter of high priority relevant (Chile) and Mr A. Athayde (Brazil). The new members activities, in particular with ITU-R, in view of the replace the seats vacated on the various panels and continued threat on the full range of radio-frequency other bodies reporting to the Council. bands allocated to meteorological systems and envi­ World Weather Watch (WWW) Programme ronmental satellites. The Council noted with interest that CBS had Basic systems developed enhanced WWW monitoring procedures The Council reviewed with approval the work of CBS and would organize an operational trial to determine towards redesigning the GOS. Major efforts will con­ the impact of their implementation, in particular as tinue to be focused on the development of a compos­ regards the resources needed at RTHs and NMCs vis­ ite, multifaceted and affordable GOS . The Council a-vis the benefits resulting from its implementation. The Council particularly welcomed the emphasis develop technical guidance material on standards, on training in severe and applications and maintenance for AWSs. enhanced use of EPS products and definition of Satellite activities related regional requirements. Efforts will continue with development of the WWW aspects of the infra­ The Executive Council endorsed guidelines for structure for long-range forecasting and further requirements for observational data from operational experimental implementation of updated verification and satellite research and development {R&D) mis­ system for long- range forecast s. sions that had been developed in partnership with CBS had recognized that the self-description, the space agencies providing environmental observa­ flexibility and expandability of table-driven codes tion satellites and sensor systems. The guidelines will such as BUFR and CREX would be the solution to provide operational users with a measure of confi­ the frequent demands of the rapidly evolving science dence in the availability of operational and R&D and technology for representation of new data types. observational data, and data providers with an indi­ *The Council requested CBS to further develop its cation of their utility. plan for a well-coordinated phased transition to In view of the success experienced by EUMET­ table-driven codes and emphasized the need for SAT in the evolution of the EUMETSAT User Fora, the training to prepare the NMHSs in time for the use of Executive Council suggested that WMO sponsor simi­ BUFR and CREX, as well as GRIB Edition 2. lar activities in all WMO Regions and use the EUMET­ CBS, in collaboration with other technical com­ SAT User Fora as a guide. The regional activities will missions, had begun to develop a concept of a future involve the regional associations as well as satellite WMO information system that would take advantage operators. of new technologies to meet WMO requirements more 327 Tropical Cyclone Programme (TCP) cost-effectively.The Council agreed that WMO sho uld develop an information system that could serve all The Council affirmed that WMO's Website links to WMO Programmes cost-effectively and asked the rele­ designated Tropical Cyclone Advisory Centres would vant technical commissions to explore technological enable international media, as well as the public, to opportunities through pilot projects and to continue have quick and ready access to official cyclone infor­ to develop the concept. A number of policy issues were mation. It approved the designation of the Central involved and possible impacts on Members' responsi­ Pacific Hurricane Centre, Honolulu, Hawaii (USA) as bilities and resources should be carefully studied. the sixth RSMC with activity specialization in tropical The Council was informed that a strategic plan cyclones in the Central Pacific Ocean basin. for implementation of improved WWW basic systems The Council appealed to Members participating has been developed by RA I. It agreed that, in order to in the Project " Reduction in the North­ achieve a satisfactory implementation of coordinated ern Part of the Indian Ocean" to request their govern­ project proposals, there was a need to further define ments to approve the project as a matter of urgency, project requirements and solicit funding. so that the project proposal could be forwarded jointly by the International Hydrological Programme Instruments and Methods of Observation and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commis­ Programme sion of UNESCO and WMO to identified funding agen­ The participation of instrument manufacturers in cies and donor countries. !MOP activities had been enhanced. The Council noted The Council emphasized the need for on-the­ that, within the hydrometeorological equipment job-training for tropical cyclone forecasters at re industry, a plan was being pursued to establish an RSMCs. It requested the Secretary-General to ensure international association, aimed at strengthening col­ maximum funding for activities under the TCP laboration between the private instrument sector and related to capacity-building. WMO. The Council also noted with satisfaction the World Climate Programme activities of CIMO to develop the role and functions of the Regional Instrument Centres. It was expected that World Climate Data and Monitoring Programme those activities would contribute to the rehabilitation The Council endorsed the development of advanced and reliable operation of many observing stations in Climate Data Management Systems that cou ld be developing countries. In view of the growing impor­ taken up by the NMHSs of WMO Members with the tance of Automatic Weather Stations (AWSs) in several confidence in knowing that they met certain stan­ WMO Programmes, the Council requested CIMO to dards for the storage and processing of climate data. World Climate Applications and Services Australian monsoon systems, and of African climate Programme (WCASP) currently being initiated were particularly welcomed. The Council also stressed the importance of capacity­ The Coordinated Enhanced Observing Period of building in implementing activities under the WCASP, the Global Energy and Experiment especially with regard to the development of new (GEWEX) over the period 2001-2003 would collect services in the areas of climate and health and urban common datasets from all the regional GEWEX hydro­ climatology. The Council acknowledged the important logical-atmospheric studies. The Council recognized role that CLIPS had played in promoting the Regional the opportunity of assessing therefrom the influence Climate Outlook Forums and in particular welcomed of continental heat and moisture sources and sinks on the review of these forums that had been conducted the global climate system and its anomalies. with a number of collaborating agencies and groups. The Council encouraged the action being taken The Council also received an interim report of an under the WCRP to improve the understanding of cli­ inter-commission task team on the role and functions mate processes and the potential effects of climate of Regional Climate Centres. The Council noted that change in arid and desert areas. This activity was these issues and other climate-related matters would especially important in view of the attention drawn come under close scrutiny during the forthcoming by the IPCC Third Assessment Report to the threat of 13th session of the Commission for Climatology in enhanced desertification and acute water shortages November 2001. arising from human-induced climate change. Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) The Executive Council welcomed the newly appointed 328 Chairman of the GCOS Steering Committee (GCOS­ The Council noted the conclusions of the contribu­ SC), Prof. Paul Mason, and expressed its gratitude to tions of the working groups of the IPCC to the Third Dr Kirk Dawson, SC Chairman from 1998 to 2001, for Assessment Report and recognized the importance of his leadership. the IPCC assessments for policy formulation on cli­ Prof. Mason reported on the development of a mate change issues and for a range of other pur­ GCOS Implementation Strategy, as requested by EC­ poses. The Council expressed its strong support for LII, and stressed the need for close cooperation with the continuation of the IPCC and urged it to maintain existing operational and research observation net­ its independence, transparency, geographical balance works. He also emphasized the major issues faced by and objectivity in its work. GCOS: giving priority to key networks, such as the Atmospheric Research and Global Upper Air Network (GUAN) and the Global Sur­ Environment Programme face Network (GSN); responding to data submission to meet needs of GCOS and the UNFCCC; encouraging The Council expressed its overall satisfaction with regional workshops; and obtaining adequate progress in the Global Atmosphere Watch Programme resources to allow GCOS to address these issues. (GAW), the World Weather Research Programme The Council urged the GCOS Secretariat to work (WWRP), the Tropical Meteorology Research Pro­ with the UNFCCC Secretariat to develop methods to gramme, and the Programme on Physics and Chem­ synthesize and analyse the National Communications istry of and Research. on Systematic Observations due to the UNFCCC by The Council agreed with the president of CAS on November 2001. It supported the proposal from the the need for the Commission to reach out to the broader GCOS-SC to prepare a second report on adequacy of scientific and user communities to improve both the the GCOS, using all available information, noting that efficacy and usefulness of its various programmes. incisive assessments of the type were of great benefit The Council was informed that a Strategy for the to WMO Members as well as to the UNFCCC Implementation of GAW for the period 2001-2007 had been endorsed by the EC Panel of Experts/CAS Work­ World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) ing on Environmental Pollution and Atmospheric The Council appreciated the continuing advances at its session in April200 1. Its development being made in the WCRP and emphasized the impor­ had included substantial input from the international tance of the basic physical climate research being car­ GAW community and could therefore be expected to ried out; it was noted that WCRP research results had receive widespread support. underpinned the IPCC Scientific Assessments. The The Council was pleased that both WMO and studies of the variability of the American and Asian- WHO had closely collaborated in the organization of an urban pollution forecasting workshop in Malaysia The Council endorsed the proposal to designate in August 2000, as part of the GAW Urban Research a centre to collect official weather forecasts and gen­ Meteorological Environment project (GURME). In erate an integrated product of major city forecasts view of the benefits accruing to developing countries around the globe. The forecasts would then be made from such workshops, the Council requested the Sec­ available on a centralized Website that would identify retary-General to hold similar workshops, if possible, contributing NMSs as the data source, thus giving in other WMO Regions . them an international presence.

329

Geneva, June 200 I -Participants in the fifty·third session of the WMO Executive Council

With regards to the WWRP, the Council noted the The Council su pported the continuation of research and development projects on cyclones that efforts through the PWS Programme for ongo ing dia­ produce high-impact weather (MEDEX and THOR­ logue with the international media and for providing PEX), aimed at demonstrating that additional high­ guidance on strengthening the partnership between quality observations in critical areas of the extra­ NMSs and national media. tropical ocean, could significantly improve th e Strong support was expressed by the Council for performance of 2- 10 day numerical forecasts . The the continuation and enhancement of capacity-build­ Council also noted the success of the WMO Training ing efforts in PWS . Training efforts under the Pro ­ Workshop on held in Sydney, Australia gramme should be given the highest priority. shortly after the Olympic Games. Agricultural Meteorology Programme The Council reviewed and approved revised texts of the WMO Statement on the Status of Weather Modi­ The Council noted the significant progress achieved fication and Guidelines for Advice and Assistance by the Programme, especially in publishing reports, Related to Planning of Weather Modification Activities. proceedings and training manuals, and in organizing These new documents had been developed by the 20th international workshops, expert group meetings and session of the EC Panel of Experts/CAS Working Group training events. It commended the programme for on the Physics and Chemistry of Clouds and Weather releasing two CD-ROMs containing 94 Technical Modification Research (Geneva, November 2000). Notes, 76 reports and three brochures relating to the Applications of Meteorology Programme Programme, dating back to 1954, most of which, although out-of-print, are still in demand Public Weather Services (PWS) Programme The Council agreed to the recommendations of The Council reaffirmed its support for the pilot the Expert Group Meeting on Early Warning Systems project to facilitate media access to official NMS for Drought Preparedness and Drought Management warnings through a centralized Website. The success held in Lisbon, Portugal (S-7 September 2000). In of the project could lead to the long-term develop­ particular, the Council endorsed the Group's assertion ment of the concept to cater for other major severe that the effectiveness of an early warning system weather events globally. would be enhanced if it were part of a national drought policy. Given the interdisciplinary nature of responsibilities to the relevant WAFC during 200 l. the issue of drought preparedness and management, Moreover, regulatory material was being implemented and the complementarity of the activities with those to facilitate the advent of the WAFS final phase. of CC!, CAS and CBS, the Council suggested that the AMDAR had proved to be a cost-effective data four Commissions enhance collaboration in this area. source that responded to the needs of WMO Pro­ Noting that the demand for information by the grammes and brought benefits to end-users. Since the user community had increased dramatically due, in establishment of the AMDAR Panel, the number of part to the recognition of the importance of agrocli­ aircraft observations disseminated on the GTS per matic information for decision-making, and to day had almost doubled from about 50 000 observa­ increased eco nomic and environmental tions in 1998 to over 100 000 at the end of 2000. concerns, the Council encouraged CAgM to continue The Council approved the alignment of WMO to place emphasis on the use of appropriate software Technical Regulations [C.3.1] with Amendment 72 to for agroclimatic data management and applications. ICAO Annex 3 and requested that arrangements be The Council was informed of the roving semi­ made to introduce this Amendment into WMO Tech­ nars organized on geographical information sys tems nical Regulations [C.3 .1], Volume Il, (WMO-No. 49). and agro-ecological zoning and on agrometeorologi­ The Council invited ICAO to replace, on 1 November cal data management and applications for the SADC 200 1, the current Appendix to ICAO Annex 3 by the countries. It recorded its appreciation for the initia­ amended Appendix Model Charts and Forms SWL tive, participation and collaboration of several inter­ and SN. Quality systems in line with the ISO 9000 national, regional and national organizations in WMO series of quality assurance in Amendment 72 had activities related to training in agricultural meteorol- been introduced as recommended practices. Any 330 ogy and encouraged the continued efforts to seek eo­ mandatory implementation of ISO 9000 quality assur­ sponsorship for the organization of such events. ance would, however, lead to significant costs to NMSs and could increase the gap between developed and Aeronautical Meteorology Programme developing countries. The Council suggested that a The Council noted that four training events had been study highlighting both the positive and negative conducted and attended by a total of 112 participants aspects of the implementation of ISO 9000 quality from 77 co untries since May 2000, thanks to the coop­ assurance be conducted in Member countries wi th a eration of Members and parent organizations. view to sharing experience. The Co uncil welcomed the publication in 2000 of Marine Meteorology and Associated Oceano­ the French and Spanish versions of Technical Note graphic Activities Programme No. 19-Methods of Interpreting Numerical Weather Prediction Output for Aeronautical Meteorology The Council reviewed an in-depth report on the major (WMO-No. 770). It further welcomed the contribution achievements and future work priorities of the Joint of CAeM to the update of the aeronautical meteorol­ WMO/IOC Technical Commission on Oceanography ogy part of publication Guidelines for the Education and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM), presented by the and TI·a ining of Personnel on Meteorology and Opera­ eo-presidents. Some of the specific issues whose tional Hydrology (WMO-No. 258, Volume I). importance was emphasized by the Council were: The Council welcomed the first joint ICAO/WMO The phased implementation of an operational, letter to ICAO Contracting States and WMO Members integrated ocean observing and data manage­ and the initiative of the WMO Secretary-General to ment system for climate, in support of GOOS and invite lATA to join with WMO in enhancing contacts GCOS; to address issues of common interest. The Council Development of new, integ rated, marine prod­ encouraged Members to pursue the spirit of these let­ ucts and services in accordance with expressed ters at the national level with aviation stakeholders. user requirements, as well as the monitoring of The Council highlighted the importance of the user response to these products and services; recovery of aeronautical meteorological costs by Mem­ Implementation of the JCOMM Capacity Building bers and asked that training, as well as the development Strategy, including new and innovative of further guidance material on this topic, be continued. approaches to funding. The Council particularly The Council was informed that, as of January recognized the importance of establishing coord i­ 2001, there were 214 WAFS satellite broadcast receiving nation and cooperation between potential donor terminals in 156 countries and that most of the agencies and marine user projects as a way of remaining RAFCs were expected to hand over their successfully implementing the strategy. It further recognized the value of regional cooperat ive proj­ The Co uncil endorsed the view expressed by ec ts in enhanci ng the capacity of all maritime CHy-XI that, within the context of the exchange of countries to participate in the work of JCOMM. hyd rological data and products, WHYCOS projects The Council enco uraged the Commission to must embrace the principles and intent of Resolution ensure that its work programme and membership 25 (Cg-XIII) by making ava ilable the hydrological data represented an eq uitable balance between marine and supporting metadata beyond th e bounds of the meteorology and oceanography and also between particular HYCOS initiatives. operatio ns and research. The Co uncil emphasized the There was considerable interest in natural disas­ importance of coo perati on at the national level ters of hydrological origin, particularly in th e light of between meteorologists and oceanographers, both as renewed claims th at the extremes of flood and individuals and through their respec tive institutions. drought may become more frequent under a chang­ It requested the Com mission to develop, if possible, ing climate. The plans for a WMO/GWP Associated some guidelines to assist WMO Members and IOC Programme on Flood Management we re welcomed, as Member States in developing national coordination. was the intention to intensify relevant efforts under Hydrology and Water Resources th e Regional and Tropical Cyclo ne Programmes. Programme (HWRP) The lack of resources to support the Pro ­ grammes on Sustainable De velopment of Water The main item for consideration of the Exec utive Resources and Capacity Building in Hydrology and Council as regards th e HW RP was the report of the Water Resources was recogni ze d, together with the eleventh session of th e Commission for Hydrology va lue of WMO maintaining its close links with other held in Abuja, Niger ia, from 6 to 16 November 2000. freshwater programmes within, and related to, the UN This was presented by Mr Datius Rutashobya (United system. Particular attention fo cused on the plans for 331 Republic of Tanzania), the newly elected president of the in ter-agency World Water Assessment Programme the Commission. The Council encouraged the Com­ and the need to assist developing co untries to mission to make proposals for strength ening th e improve their capacity for independent scientific and activities of the HWRP which co uld be submitted to technical work. Cg-XIV. It also welcomed th e offer of th e president of Education and Training Programme (ETRP) the Com mission to make proposals for a subtitle to the name of WMO wh ich would make an appropriate The Co uncil st ressed that activities under the ETRP reference to "hydrology", and to discuss with the CHy were vital for the success of all WMO scientific and Advi sory Working Group means of improving contact technical prog rammes. between the Organization and the hydrological com­ Regarding th e survey of Members training munity at nat ional level. requirements to be undertake n in 2002, the Council Participants in the Council session were give n recommended that consideration sho uld be give n to CD -RO Ms containing the Eng li sh and French lan­ further improvement of the questionnaire by paying guage versions of the fifth ed ition of the Guide to attention to the expected use of the information, par­ Hydrological Practices (WMO-No. 168). ticularly in the decision-m ak ing pro cess and in the The Council noted progress with th e updating of id entifi cation of major trends. It also recommended the HOMS Reference Manua l and its availability on that the requirements of Members in new subj ect the Web and on CD-ROM. The success of data-rescue areas and technologies, as well as specialized co urses, projects in Africa was applauded, as was the develop­ should be properly identified and prioritized. ment of pl ans to es tablish an International Gro und­ The Co uncil recalled that the new WMO classifi­ wa te r Resources Assessment Centre under the joint cation of personnel in meteorology and operational auspices of WMO and UNESCO, and for a Global Data hydrology, comprising two broad categories common Centre on Lakes and Reservoirs. to meteorological and operational hydrological per­ The three HYCOS projects currently being imple­ sonnel, had been approved by EC-L with effect from mented-MED, SADC and the pilot phase of AOC­ I Jan uary 2001. It noted that the new edition of th e wo uld all terminate in 200 I and plans were being WMO publication Guidelines for th e Education and developed to consolidate and ex tend their act ivit ies . IJ·a ining of Personnel in Meteorology and Operational An important event with in the WHYCOS framework Hydrology (WMO-No. 258), Vo l. !-Meteorology, and had been a high-level consultative meeting to discuss Vol. Il- Hydrology, would be re leased soon. The a Hindu -Kush-Him alayan HYCOS to support flood­ Co uncil encouraged Members and Regional Meteoro­ forecasting ac tivities in th at region. logical Training Centres (RMTCs) to initiate coordi- nated actions oriented towards a review and update deficiencies in basic systems. In that regard, it noted of relevant curricula and their introduction into the with appreciation the launching of a development education and training process, taking into account plan for a Regional Meteorological Data Communica­ the new WMO classification. tion Strategy and a plan for the Rehabilitation and The Council expressed its appreciation to those Capacity Building of the Basic Systems in RA I. It also who had participated actively in the implementation noted with pleasure the implementation of the Strate­ of training events organized or eo-sponsored by gic Plan for the Enhancement of the National Meteo­ WMO. It also encouraged the continuous updating of rological Services in RA 11 (Asia), and the Strategic the Virtual Training Library as a learning portal in an Action Plan for the Development of Meteorology in effort to provide the latest and most suitable available the Pacific Region. The Council requested the Secre­ training material through the Internet. tary-General to continue his efforts in assisting Mem­ The Council acknowledged with appreciation the bers in implementing or developing such plans. generous contributions ofVCP donor Members to the It further noted that the RA Ill RMTN was being WMO Fellowships Programme and appealed to them modernized by use of the most recent generation of to maintain, and, if possible to expand, their contribu­ managed networks communication technologies, and tions. It encouraged the Secretariat to continue the that the telecommunications arrangements for promotion of cost-sharing arrangements and the use, Caribbean meteorological offices were being as far as possible and when available, of extra­ improved. The Council also noted the level of imple­ budgetary funds. mentation of the Regional Meteorological Data Com­ Technical Cooperation Programme munication Network in RA VI, based on a shared, commercially provided network service managed by 332 The Council reviewed technical cooperation activities ECMWF. However, the Council expressed its concern and noted that a number of major new projects had that some Members continued to face difficulties in been approved with funding from UNDP, trust funds, the implementation of WMO Programmes; some the World Bank and regional development banks, and parts of RA I, RA 11 and RA Ill experienced deficien­ that efforts continued to be made to obtain additional cies in both their observing and telecommunication funding in support of NMHSs from various sources. networks. In particular, the Council noted that WMO had con­ The Council noted the financial agreement that cluded MOUs with the World Bank and the Inter­ had been signed to implement the PUMA project (to American Development Bank and was strengthening prepare for the use of METEOSAT Second Generation links with other funding agencies, such as the Euro­ satellites in Africa) for 47 Sub-Saharan countries. It pean Commission, bilateral funding agencies and thanked EUMETSAT for its contribution and the other regional development banks. European Commission for its financial support and In addition, the Council considered the outcome requested the Secretary-General to continue his sup­ of the Third United Nations Conference for the Least port to a further six countries. The Council further Developed Countries held in Brussels, Belgium, in requested the Secretary-General to collaborate with May 2001 and agreed on the need to support actively the League of Arab States to explore the possibility of the implementation of the Programme of Action fo r establishing similar arrangements for the benefit of the LDCs for the decade 2001-2010. Arab countries in RA 11 and RA VI. With regard to the VCP, the Council approved The Council recognized that the activities of the new allocations for the VCP(F) for the year 2000. The Subregional Offices contributed to supporting the efforts Council noted the establishment of the Emergency of NMHSs. Regional and Subregional Offices should be and Disaster Response Group within the Secretariat, run as cost -effectively as possible, by taking advantage of and agreed on the mission, membership and imple­ assistance offered by countries or institutions. mentation procedures of the Emergency Assistance Information and Public Affairs Response Team. The Council encouraged Members to participate in WMO emergency activities and to con­ The Executive Council reiterated the importance of tribute further to the WMO Emergency Assistance efforts to support various activities under this pro­ Fund for timely and coordinated assistance. gramme. In particular, it expressed satisfaction with Regional Programme the initiatives and events undertaken to commemo­ rate the 50th anniversary of WMO at the national The Council encouraged the regional associations to and international levels and the Secretariat's initia­ develop and implement strategic plans to address tive to enhance the WMO-media alliance through eo-sponsorship of the First International Broadcast hydrological data and products. The Council shared Me teorology Conference . the opinion of CHy as regards the value of producing It was decided that the theme for World Meteoro­ technical advice in the form of a report offering a logical Day in 2003 would be "Our future climate". It general review of the types of data, supported by was recalled that the theme for the year 2002 was case-studies. "Reducing vulnerability to weather and climate The Cou ncil agreed with CCl's recommendation extremes". that any climate data already inserted into the public Programme and budget for 2002-2003 domain without any restrictions imposed by the orig­ inal supplier should remain freely available. The Council app roved regular budget appropriations The Council noted a report from the representa­ amounting to SFR 126 150 000 for 2002-2003 in con­ tive of roe on progress in developing an roe policy on formity with the maximum expenditure for the thir­ the exchange of oceanographic data and products. teenth financial period. Of this amount, Long-term planning SFR 124 400 000 is to be funded from assessed contri­ butions and SFR 1 750 000 from savings resulting The Co uncil adopted the WMO vision, a set of desired from the relocation of WMO Headq uarters. Provisions outcomes and a set of strategies and associated were made for the following sessions: RA I-XIII, RA V­ strategic goals which provide the framework for the XIII, RA VI-XIII, CBS (Ext.), CAS-XIII, CIMO-XIII, formulation of the full draft of the 6LTP. It would be CAgM-XIII and CAeM-XII. helpful to take into consideration the views of the Role and operation of NMHSs entire international meteorological and hydrological community on these matters. The Council was informed that a preliminary analysis The Council agreed that the leadership role of 333 of the questionnaire on the role and operation of WMO in providing expertise and promoting interna­ NMSs indicated a near consistency across the WMO tional cooperation in relevant fields was a key ele­ Regions on what are considered to be the important ment of the WMO vision, which is formulated thus: national goals served by NMSs. To provide world leadership in expertise and The Council expressed its support for the holding international cooperation in weather, climate, of a WMO high-level conference on the role of, and hydrology and water resources, and related envi­ socio-economic benefits provided by, NMHSs as well ronmental issues, and thereby to contribute to the as on further enhancing their visibility and status. safety and well being of people throughout the The Council requested the Commission for Basic world and to the economic benefit of all nations. Systems to study the possibility of developing standard The Council agreed on the set of six desired out- and/or recommended practices and procedures for comes: (a) improved protection of life and property; preparing weather forecasts and international formats (b) increased safety on land, at sea and in the air; for the texts of forecasts and warnings issued by NMSs. (c) en hanced quality of life; (d) sustainable economic The Council requested its Advisory Group on the growth; (e) protection of the environment; and Role and Operation of NMHSs to study the topic of (f) enhanced WMO effectiveness. It was felt that by quality management certification further, with a view identifying the desired outcomes, the 6LTP would be to possibly developing guidance for Members. The more strategic and outward-looking. The Plan would relationship of any certification process with WMO also be more useful in better informing other organi­ standards should be taken into account and the scope zations/entities outside WMO, thus raising the profile for a WMO certification process should also be ofWMO and its activities. explored. The Council adopted nine strategies with associ­ International exchange of ated goals to meet the evo lving global needs for data and products expert advice and services pertinent to weather, water, climate and the natural environment. The Council concurred that the policy and practice on The Council agreed that the present programme the free and unrestricted exchange of meteorological structure be used as a basis for further developing and related data and products as contained in Resolu­ the 6LTP and the programme and budget for the tion 40 (Cg-XII) had been applied in a generally satis­ Fourteenth Financial Period. factory manner. The Council agreed that the vision, desired out­ The Council noted the actions taken in the fol­ comes, strategies and associated goals, as well as the low-up to Resolution 25 (Cg-XIII)-Exchange of programme structure of the 6LTP, would serve as a clear basis for the programme and budget. The hensive Nuclear Test-Ban Treaty Organization and achievement of expected results defined in the pro­ WMO and requested the Secretary-General to submit gramme and budget would contribute to the realiza­ the Draft Agreement to Fourteenth Congress for tion of 6LTP strategies and associated goals, which approval in accordance with the provisions of Article establish the meaningful link between the 6LTP and 26(a) of the WMO Convention. the programme and budget. International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR) The key areas that should receive greater empha­ sis were: (a) protection of life and property, especially The Council noted the leading role played by WMO in disaster prevention and mitigation; (b) climate the ISDR through those aspects of its major scientific change and its impacts; (c) provision of services for and technical programmes that concerned mitigation the socio-economic benefits of people; and (d) of, and preparedness for, natural disasters of meteoro­ hydrology and water resources . logical and hydrological origin. Many of the most sig­ The review of WMO structure should be under­ nificant achievements in natural disaster reduction taken in the light of the WMO vision and the Long­ were a result of the applications of science and technol­ term Plan. Any resulting structural change should ogy and, in particular, the ability to issue more accurate better facilitate the realization of the Long-term Plan. and timely early warnings for many natural hazards. The Council noted that the review of WMO structure The Council commended the initiative of the was carried out in terms of: (a) coordination of activ­ Secretary-General to establish a mechanism for ities and objectives; (b) the relations of WMO with ensuring that the WMO Secretariat acts quickly and other organizations and sectors; and (c) the type of effectively in support of Members in situations of structure required to achieve the goals to the fullest emergency and disaster, with the Emergency and Dis­ 334 extent possible. aster Response Group (EDRG) as the primary steering The Council requested its Task Team on WMO component The Council invited NMHSs to provide Structure to study further a number of areas, includ­ information on the impact of natural disasters to ing the role and functions of technical commissions meteorological infrastructure to enable the EDRG to and regional associations; further streamlining of the take timely action. work and sessions of EC; EC subsidiary bodies; and Seismology the WMO Bureau. United Nations The Secretary-General invited the Council to consider the opportunity of launching a new initiative related The Executive Council took note of the resolutions to assuming responsibility for coordination in the addressed to the Organization by the fifty-fifth ses­ field of seismology which falls within the ambit of sion of the General Assembly of the United Nations, in some 45 NMHSs. The Council requested the Secretary­ particular the UN Resolution on International Year of General to prepare a document on all aspects relating Freshwater (2003). It noted WMO involvement in the to this matter for thorough discussion at its next ses­ preparation of the event through the UN ACC Sub­ sion and for eventual consideration by Cg-XIV in 2003. committee on Freshwater Resources and invited the World Summit on Sustainable Development Secretary-General to take appropriate measures to contribute to this important event. The Council urged Members to become engaged in The Executive Council noted the reports of the the preparatory process for the World Summit on Sus­ Joint Inspection Unit (JIU) referred to WMO and, tainable Development to be held in Johannesburg, where appropriate, the comments of the Secretary­ South Africa, from 2 to 11 September 2002. The Coun­ General, and the establishment in Geneva in 200 l of a cil recognized that this would provide several oppor­ coordinating mechanism on common services­ tunities to demonstrate the vital role of NMHSs in Management Ownership Committee-on the basis of achieving sustainable development. The Council the recommendations of the JIU. The Council stressed noted that there were several areas highly relevant to the need to develop a procedure to follow up on JIU WMO Programmes and activities that would be the reports. In this regard, the Council invited the Secre­ focus of attention during the preparatory period for tary-General to prepare a report on the subject in the Summit and during the Summit itself. consultation with JIU for the consideration of the Awards fifty-fourth session of the Executive Council. The Council endorsed the Draft Agreement The Executive Council awarded the 46th IMO Prize to between the Preparatory Commission for Compre- Prof. Mahammad Hassan Ganji (Islamic Republic of Iran). The Council conferred the NORBERT GERBIER­ MUMM International Award for 2002 on Drs W.N. Smith, R.L. Desjardins and E. Pattey (Canada) for their paper entitled "The net flux of carbon from agricultural soils in Canada 1970-2010", published in Global Change in 2000. The 2001 WMO Res earch Award for Young Sci­ entists was conferred upon Dr Liu Xiaohong (China) for his paper "Modelling study of cloud droplet nucleation and in-cloud sulphate produc­ tion during Sanitation of the Atmosphere (SANA) 2 campaign". Lu Chunlon and Chen Shunhuo !China) received the 2001 NORBERT GERBIER­ Scientific lectures MUMM lntemotionol Award for their paper enti#ed "Multiple linear interdependent models applied to typhoon data from China". They ore pictured here (centre) with Prof. Emeritus Dan Zaslavsky presented the lecture (from left to right, front row): the Chinese Ambassador; Mme Guiord Gerbier; Prof. "Energy towers: using solar and wind energy in G.0 .P. Obasi, Secretory-Generol; Mr M. Jarroud (Deputy Secretary-Genero/); and desert regions" and Mr Maxx Dilley presented the (back row): Or J. Wlillman !President, WMO!; Mr 0. Brun IMUMM!; and Mr J. -P. lecture "The use of climate information and sea­ Beyssan, First Vice-President, WMO. sonal prediction of climate related disasters". Future sessions of the Council The Council decided that Messrs U. Gorsdorf and V. Lehmann (Germany) would receive the sixteenth It was decided that the fifty-fourth session and the 335 Professor Dr Vilho Vaisala Award in 2001 for their fifty-fifth session of the Council would be held in paper entitled "Enhanced accuracy of RASS-measured WMO Headquarters in Geneva from 11 to 21 June temperatures due to an improved range correction". 2002 and from 26 to 28 May 2003, respectively. m~~®oocna Jl$J$J®~flcn1111®oo JJV (JNI®rtrllh cnooril cc~oorlffcna ilrm~rrfl~cn )=rllhflrrrl~~oorllh $)~$)$Jfl®oo

Maracay, Venezuela, 28 March -6 April 2001

Participants in the thirteenth session of Regional Association IV (North and Central America and the Caribbean), Morocoy, Venezuela, 28 March- 6 April2001

The thirteenth session of Regional Association IV and economic development of the Region had suf­ (North and Central America and the Caribbean) fered a series of natural disasters associated with was held in Maracay, Venezuela, from 28 March to 6 hurricanes Mitch, Ge01ges and Keith. Although assis­ April 2001. tance had been received, there was still an urgent The president of the Association recalled that, need for rehabilitation and improvement of national since the last session (Bahamas, May 1997), the social observation networks. The Association endorsed several suggestions Seminar on the Use of GDPS Products with Statistical for important guidelines for developing activities in Adaptation had been held in San Jose, Costa Rica, in the Region. These included the future role of NMHSs July 1999. Several NMHSs expressed the need for some within the framework of globalization; meteorologi­ training in adapting NWP model output to their cal services for aviation; cost recovery in meteorol­ country's requirements. ogy; meteorological and hydrological data and The Association urged Members to spare no product exchange and possible changes to the WMO effort in their endeavours to secure, at the earliest date Convention. possible, full implementation of the network of sta­ The Association emphasized that the WWW was tions and observational programmes to comply fully an essential system for supporting the Tropical with the standard times of observation, the global and Cyclone Programme in the Region, with the RA IV regional coding procedures and data-collection stan­ Working Group on Planning and Implementation of dards, as laid down in the WMO Technical Regulations the WWW and the Hurricane Committee sharing sig­ and the manuals on the GOS, codes and the GTS. nificant areas of common interest. It underlined the Members of the Association continued to partic­ great value of education and training of instrument ipate actively in many components of the WCRP. In operators for achieving the required high quality and global-scale climate modelling studies, however, the reliability of observations for various operational and impacts relevant to small island developing states research applications. All NMHSs were encouraged to were often inadequately resolved. The Association train and/or re-train their own staff, as necessary, and recognized that WCRP research activities must be to consider the possibility of using the training facili­ complemented by systematic, sustained and rein­ ties of other Members and the Regional Instrument forced observations of all key climate variables, by 336 Centres if their own resources were not sufficient. capacity-building involving all nations in climate Donors were invited to maintain strong support to research activities, and by improving interactions training programmes in instrumentation. with other climate-related programmes within the The satellite-based Regional Meteorological framework of the international Climate Agenda. The Telecommunication Network was highly reliable and Association encouraged NMHSs to participate as effective, but the Association agreed that back-up fully as possible in national climate research pro­ telecommunications arrangements were required in grammes led by other national institutions. certain situations. In this regard, the aeronautical In emphasizing the important role that high­ fixed telecommunications network (AFTN) was a use­ quality public weather services (PWS) play in demon­ ful back-up for data collection, enabling the direct strating the value of government investment in NMSs, transmission of observational data, enveloped in an the Association noted with appreciation the capacity­ AFTN message, to RTH Washington. The Association building activities of the PWS Programme in the noted with appreciation that RTH Washington had Region. A PWS workshop had been held in Miami, developed a procedure for the ingestion of messages Florida, USA, in April 1999, for participants from the by file transfer protocol the via Internet; the detailed Hurricane Committee Region. arrangements and procedures had been made avail­ The Association urged the Secretary-General to able to NMCs. continue to provide strong support to roving semi­ The Association noted with appreciation that nars in agricultural meteorology. Training in agricul­ Global Data-processing Centres in the Region contin­ tural meteorology should receive high priority for ued to improve their computing infrastructure and meaningful application of meteorological informa­ analysis/forecasting systems. Progress towards increas­ tion to agricultural activities and thus improve the ing model resolution and extending the period of relevance and effectiveness of products and services validity of forecasts to the longer range had continued. provided by NMHSs The Association also noted that the two WMO In general, the needs of Members in the Region designated centres in RA IV (RSMC Washington and were adequately reflected in the priority activities of RSMC Montreal) had conducted monthly tests of WMO in hydrology and water resources given in operational procedures and prepared the required WMO's Fifth Long-term Plan (SLIP). The Association joint statements for the provision of atmospheric invited the Secretary-General to provide assistance to transport and dispersion modelling products for RA hydrological activities in the Region, including seek­ IV. Several NMHSs in RA IV had participated in an ing sources of finance and implementing the projects Emergency Response Training seminar that had been that could be prepared as part of the activities of the held in October 1997 in Montreal. A Regional Training RA IV Working Group on Hydrology. The Association requested the WMO Secretariat The Association agreed that the subregional to assist NMHSs in the development of their national forums that were being convened to develop outlooks plans and to assist the region in the development of a for various seasons provided an excellent opportunity regional strategy plan for the enhancement of NMHSs for cooperation between NMHSs and with user com­ in the Region. munities. The Association requested the Secretary­ The Association considered that long-term plan­ General to continue his support for improving the ning activities had often been somewhat isolated scope and effectiveness of these forums, which could from the user community. The Association urged the be implemented within the framework of the Climate EC Working Group on Long-term Planning and the Information and Prediction Services Project. Secretary-General to discuss WMO's vision, outcomes, Four Working Groups were established on Plan­ strategies and associated goals with representatives ning and Implementation of the WWW in Region IV; of the private sector, including the media, instrument Agricultural Meteorology; Hydrology in Region IV manufacturers and other users and consumers of and the Hurricane Committee. Five rapporteurs were NMHS information and services. The Associat ion appointed within these working groups, as well as 12 urged the president, and all Members of RA IV, to fol­ individual rapporteurs having their own terms of low closely the developments of the 6LTP and to com­ reference. mence work with some urgency on developing a Mr A.J. Dania (Netherlands Antilles and Aruba) regional strategy for meteorology and hydrology in and Mr C. Fuller (Belize) were re-elected president RA IV that reflected the global outcomes and goals and vice-president of Reg ional Association IV, stated in the Plan. respectively.

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The theme of the Technical Conference was "NMHSs mote the benefit of joining the Organization and assist in the new millennium: provision of better services". countries to become Members. WMO was requested to Mr M. Jarraud, Deputy Secretary-General of find an appropriate mechanism to provide the train­ WMO, Dr R. Sri Diaharto, acting president of RA V, and ing which is urgently needed by those countries. WMO Dr Leoncio A. Amadore, Director of the Philippine Members and institutions in the Region should con­ Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services tinue to provide the necessary support in order to Administration spoke at the opening ceremony. The enable those countries establish and/or strengthen Conference was attended by 24 Directors and senior their meteorological observing networks and services. officers of National Meteorological Services (NMSs) in Many new challenges and opportunities were Region V, four representatives from four non-Members influencing the operations and development of NMSs, of WMO in the Region, three observers and five such as globalization, the introduction of market-led invited lecturers. economies and rapid advances in science and technol­ A special meeting was organized for non-Mem­ ogy. Although substantial progress had been made in bers of WMO in the Pacific in order to introduce the understanding the Earth's climate system, as well in programmes and activities of the Organization and to the prediction of climate change and its impact on know better the status of their Meteorological Ser­ sustainable development, much still remained to be vices. It was attended by representatives of four non­ done by NMSs and research and academic communi­ Members ofWMO from small island developing States ties. Current challenges included improved data avail­ in the Region: Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru and ability, particularly over the oceans and remote Tuvalu. The Conference recommended that WMO pro- regions, improvements in climate prediction at the regional and subregional levels and the refinement of challenge lay in organizing and managing. NMSs were methods, including enhanced climate models. There managed internally but were also shaped by external was also the challenge for the NMSs and the rest of the factors. In that regard, national strategies for the provi­ scientific community, to work together and generate sion of services should build upon the framework of policy options for meeting the impacts of climate international cooperation, as global and regional infor­ change in different sectors of the economy. mation was required to address climate and environ­ The Conference recommended that: mental issues. NMSs should continue to strengthen NMSs shou ld develop an appropriate strategy to their efforts towards meeting or responding to man­ meet the relevant challenges and opportunities, agement changes and quality management was a pos­ taking into consideration the guidance available sible solution. from WMO, including that reflected in the WMO NMSs should have legal instruments to govern Long-term Plan. The strategy should take into their activities and WMO should continue providing account the specific features of the Region and guidance in that respect. NMSs should prepare and/or each county's socio-economic situation and cul­ update periodically their development plans which tural perspectives and values to ensure the long­ should take into account their national plan, the WMO term sustainability of the NMSs; Long-term Plan and the Strategic Action Plan for the WMO should provide guidance to NMSs on mat­ Development of Meteorology in the Pacific Region ters related to legal instruments; (SDPM). NMSs should be the single official national Directors of NMSs should ensure the effective­ voice in issuing warnings for tropical cyclones and ness and credibility of their services through the severe/extreme weather phenomena, as well as being provision of accurate and timely forecasts and an authoritative scientific voice in issues such as aero­ 338 other products/services, especially those relating nautical and marine meteorology, climate change, nat­ to severe weather warning and climate condi­ ural disaster mitigation and international data tions and thereby enhance their NMS visibility exchange. Directors of NMSs should put in place devel­ with decision-makers, planners, users and the opment plans for their Service, which provide their general public; vision, mission statement, objectives and goals, and NMSs should have the capacity to take initiatives seek financial support to improve their level of serv­ and show leadership at national level in matters ices and expertise. NMSs should continuously improve related to climate change, to ensure that the the quality of data, products and service by using effec­ appropriate scientific information was made tive management and continue to enhance their visi­ available to policy- and decision-makers. In this bility in society and demonstrate to decision-makers way, the countries in the Region could develop their contribution to national development goals suitable policies and participate appropriately in The Conference recognized the positive results negotiations on climate-change issues. achieved through regional cooperation. It further rec­ Technology, expertise and information were ognized the need for the increased efforts of Members acquired relatively easily with available resources: the to ensure that NMSs' inputs were included in national

Manila, Philippines, Apri/200 1-Participants in the Third Technical Conference on Management of Meteorological and Hydrological Services in RA V and regional development programmes and funding national centres. It agreed that each NMS Website schemes. The Conference welcomed the development should be linked to the WMO Website and include of SDPM (2000-2009) and the needs analysis of NMSs information on tropical cyclones updates/warnings. and of users of meteorological services in the Pacific The national climate archives should be considered Region. NMSs should strengthen their links with as valuable assets and NMSs should therefore seek national authorities and ensure that their inputs and resources to recover and digitize historical climate requirements were taken into account in formulating data. The Conference recommended that NMSs make and funding priority programmes. WMO should use of the new information technology, in particular enhance partnerships with NMSs in seeking and the Internet and regional Intranet, as well as televi­ implementing projects through various schemes, sion presentations for the distribution of data and including the WMO Voluntary Cooperation Pro­ information to users and the general public. NMSs gramme, and multilateral arrangements. WMO should were encouraged to make reference on their Websites assist Members, particularly the Pacific island coun­ to WMO and their membership thereof. It recom­ tries, to promote, secure resources for, and implement mended that WMO provide support to small island the SDMP (2000-2009) and the proposed projects States in the Pacific Region for training in informa­ resulting from the needs analysis. NMSs in the Pacific tion technology. Region should also seek support and approval of the The Conference agreed that NMSs should use the proposed projects from their national authorities and guidelines and criteria provided by ICAO and WMO include them as part of their national development for the cost recovery of meteorological services pro­ programmes. vided for aeronautical activities. NMSs were encour­ NMSs would be involved in the integrated aged to share experiences concerning their relations approach to technical services in the light of the pro­ with the private sector and business-oriented 339 posed Future WMO Information System, which would approaches and to bring their experiences in the area rely upon a combination of public and coordinated of alternative services delivery of meteorological development and operations of global, regional and services to the attention of the WMO Secretariat.

-. ~~MO programme new~;t

WORLD WEATHER WATCH PROGRAMME ----- GLOBAL DATA-PROCESSING SYSTEM Meeting of Expert Team on Data Representation and Codes The Meeting of the Expert Team on Data Representa­ tion and Codes (ET/DR&C) was held at the Meteo­ France International Conference Centre in Toulouse from 23 to 27 April 2001. Ten experts from WMO Member countries and two from international organ­ izations contributed to the meeting. Under the chair­ manship of Mr Jean Clochard of Meteo-France, the ET reviewed the experimental tests of GRIB Edition 2 before its operational implementation on 7 November 2001. Further validation tests and experimental Toulouse, France, April 2001 - Expert Team an Data Representation and Codes exchanges were recommended with a view to the use of GRIB 2 at the end of 2001/beginning of 2002, espe­ stations (AWS) observations, for new originating cen­ cially for the exchange of ensemble prediction system tres, satellites and , for height assignment products. The Team recommended additions to method (from satellite), for a new significance quali­ BUFR/CREX tables for the transmission of automatic fier on method of derivation of percentage confi- dence, for the representation of last known buoy posi­ April ZOO 1 Session of the CBS Open Programme tion and of the ascending or descending orbit and to Area Group on Integrated Observing Systems represent XBT, XCTD and subsurface float informa­ (OPAG lOS) Expert Team on Observational Data tion. New regulations for the global harmonization of Requirements and Redesign of the Global precipitation reporting were proposed in FM 12 Observing System (ET-ODRRGOS) SYNOP, with a view to their approval by CBS Ext. 02. Meeting of Expert Team on Migration to During the period 23-27 April 2001, a two-day CGMS Table Driven Code Forms Workshop followed by a three-day WMO CBS OPAG IOS Expert Team meeting were held in Geneva. Eight invited speakers gave their views on how remote­ sensing would evolve in various specialized areas over the next 10-15 years and what the potential con­ tribution to the GOS would be. The presentations by invited experts on evolving technologies were intended to assist the ET-ODRRGOS in their efforts to re-design the GOS. One suggested goal for the GOS of 2020 was for all citizens of the planet to have "weather in the palm of their hands". In the post-2015 era, LEO and GEO obser­ vations could provide global coverage, high spatial res­ olution, sounding, GPS profiles, 340 Geneva, May 2001 -Expert Team an Migration to Table Driven Code Forms Doppler winds, and water vapour, while GEO observations could provide high temporal resolution The Expert Team on Migration to Table Driven Code (weather dynamics), tracer wind , synergism Forms held its first meeting in Geneva from 7 to 11 with ground-based observations, lightning measure­ May 2001. Ten experts from WMO Member countries ments, and microwave precipitation determinations. and two from international organizations con­ Interesting facts about the GPS Met mission tributed. Under the chairmanship of Dr Fred Bransky from 1995 to 1997 surfaced; there is a critical need to (USA), the Team, as its main duty, started the develop­ enhance understanding of the possible implementa­ ment of a detailed migration plan to table-driven rep­ tion of a radio occultation concept and to character­ resentation forms to be presented to CBS-Ext.(2002). ize associated errors. The Team identified technical impacts of the migra­ The Workshop noted that there would be consid­ tion (and possible solutions) in all aspects of the erable economic benefits from extending forecasts. It World Weather Watch and associated operations. The was suggested that a minimum performance level of Team noted that all Members will not migrate at the GEOs and LEOs needs to be established, replacement same pace, and that it will be a slow process over a strategies need to be determined, orbit overlaps need decade. To ensure access to data for all users, the con­ to be orchestrated, a possible role for small satellites stitution of the same observation in two types of for­ supplementing the GOS needs to be studied further, mat at some stage in the World Weather Watch data and those missions which have operational long-term flow (concept of the double transmission or double perspective need to be identified. dissemination), had to be considered. Prior to the The complete Workshop report is available at: migration process, information, training and http://www.wmo.ch/web/www/OSY/reports/ODRRGOS.doc. encoder/decoder software will have to be provided to The ET-ODRRGOS agenda called for discussion WMO Members . The Team developed an action plan of studies carried out by NWP centres on changes in for these projects. the GOS that have occurred during the past decade and their impact on the skills of NWP both regionally SATELLITE ACTIVITES and globally. Detailed reports were submitted by Coordination Group for Meteorological France, South Africa, the United Kingdom, USA and Satellites (CGMS) the ECMWF. WMO presented a statistical analysis of forecast verification scores from six forecast centres Workshop on the Evolution of Low Earth Orbit from 1991 to 2000. (LEO) and Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) ET-ODRRGOS also discussed the coordinated Remote Sensing in the Post 2015 Era development and utilization of a comprehensive soft- ware tool for carrying out Observing System Simula­ according to the recommendations developed by the tion Experiments (OSSEs), as well as preparation, International Organizing Committee established for maintenance and evolution of a realistic OSSE data­ this purpose (see Bulletin 50 (1), 65). The perform­ base with user-friendly access. The meeting was of ance of the main types of GPS- currently the opinion that scientists often did not undertake an used for operational measurements (Vaisala RS80- OSSE because of the huge human and computer 15G and RS90-AG (Finland), Sippican MKII (USA), resources required; a solution would be to coordinate Geolink GPSonde GL98 (France) and Dr. Graw Mess­ individual investments. gerate DFM-97 (Germany)) was compared in more The ET-ODRRGOS noted that the required than 40 flights . resources for OSSEs were still so large that the limited All the GPS wind measurement systems pro­ resources for evaluating changes to the GOS would duced hi gh-quality wind data (with errors much probably be better focused on well-defined Observing smaller than 1 m s- 1) when working correctly, but System Experiments (OSEs), and suggested seven for some systems had more malfunctions during flight consideration by NWP centres. The OSE/OSSE rappor­ than others. Another objective was to obtain more teurs were encouraged to study, inter alia, the impacts detailed information on the performance of humidity of hourly SYNOPs; the denial of radiosonde data glob­ sensors, so it was highly appreciated that the "Snow ally above the and of AMDAR data over White" chilled mirror (Meteolabor, Africa; AIRS and tropical radiosonde data; three LEO Switzerland) were coupled to the Sippican radioson­ AMSU-like sounders, as well as the information con­ des on 20 flights. Preliminary results of humidity tent of the Siberian radiosonde network and its comparisons revealed that significant differences changes. between the two commonly used radiosonde relative The results will be presented and discussed at humidity sensors had still not been resolved. On most 341 the next ET-ODRRGOS meeting in early 2002. flights, relative humidity varied a great deal with height, with many ascents passing through upper INSTRUMENTS AND METHODS OF cloud. The difference in sensitivity and absolute cali- OBSERVATION PROGRAMME bration in upper cloud between the older humidity WMO Intercomparison of GPS sensors and some of the newer designs can readily be Radiosondes quantified. Results for both wind and relative humid- ity will be significant in improving the operational The WMO Intercomparison of GPS Radiosondes was reliability of radiosonde designs. The Project Leader, held at the Brazilian Air Force Satellite/ Launch Dr Reinaldo da Silveira, will produce an initial sum- Centre Alcantara under tropical conditions from mary report once the data analysis is complete. 25 May until 5 June 2001. The trial was organized

Alwntaro, Brazil- Preparations for the launch of aballoon carrying the rig enabling the simultaneous test of the four types of radiosondes during the WMO lnterwmparison of GPS Radiosondes (May flune 200 1) TROPICAL CYCLONE PROGRAMME WMO Members affected by tropical cyclones and equipped with Webservers. These Services issue WMO provides quick access to tropical releases, bulletins and advisories which contain, where cyclone advisories worldwide applicable, the official warnings of the impact of tropi­ The Tropical Cyclone Programme Website within the cal cyclones and associated phenomena on their WMO homepage now features a specific Website national territory and coastal waters, for wide dissemi­ which is linked to the six Tropical Cyclone (TC) nation locally and to all those who are threatened. Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres (RSMCs) The provision of up-to-date reliable information located in La Reunion, Honolulu, Miami, Nadi (Fiji), on current tropical cyclones, forecasts of their tracks New Delhi and Tokyo and four tropical cyclone warn- and intensities and warnings of their impact and

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the five tropical cyclone warning centres GLOBAl NETWORK Of TROPICAl CYClONE MONnORING, fORECASTING AND WARNING SYSnMS ing centres (TCWCs) with regional responsibility WORLD W EATHER WATCH located in , Darwin, Perth, and Wellington. Cii.OilAI. DATA AQUiimOH AHD ~UNICATION S The tropical cyclone RSMC network consists of six centres designated by WMO to detect, monitor, ? -.~~& I -.., ~ ) ~ ~ fl. -~ track and forecast the intensity of all tropical ... ,- cyclones. These centres provide, in real-time, advisory information and guidance to the National Meteoro­ logical and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) con­ cerned. They also provide the first-level basic meteor­ ological information (i.e. the tropical cyclone's present and forecast position, movement and inten­ sity) to the public, including the international media and other international concerns such as aviation, marine interests and tourism. Each of the tropical cyclone RSMCs also serves as a national tropical cyclone warning centre for its country. The Tropical Cyclone Warning Centres (TCWCs), have similar functions but, in addition, are responsi­ ble for providing local warnings to meet their national responsibilities. Official warnings for national territories are issued by the NMHSs for dis­ semination to all those who are threatened. ~10 ~ !'+ ' ' -· · ~- For those concerned with safety of life and prop­ [!fil erty in a specific area and protection from the destruc­ ~ tive impact of tropical cyclones, the central WMO Web­ site (http://www.wmo.ch) is linked to several NMHSs of The tropical cyclone RSMC network: how if functions associated phenomena has always been accepted as ference, sometime early in the next WMO financial an integral part of the tropical cyclone disaster miti­ period. Such a conference could focus on the value of gation system. Admittedly, the media and particularly climate as a resource. This more positive approach the electronic media play an important role in the would be an appropriate shift away from the predom­ process. WMO has accorded this activity a high prior­ inantly negative associations that have characterized ity status and, in January 2001, issued a press release climate debates in recent years. announcing WMO Website links to the tropical Finally, the Group recalled that consideration cyclone RSMCs and TCWCs. This is expected to boost was being given to revising the WMO Convention to WMO's bid to help enhance the image of these centres reflect the changes that had occurred in the 50 years and ensure quick access to official information on since its ratification. The Group agreed that, should tropical cyclones occurring worldwide. the Executive Council decide to proceed with the drafting of a more comprehensive preamble to the WMO Convention, it would be appropriate for the WORLD CLIMATE Group to take an active role in ensuring that climate PROGRAMME and environmental concerns were well represented in Executive Council Advisory Group on the text. Climate and Environment WORLD CLIMATE DATA AND The EC Advisory Group on Climate and Environment MONITORING PROGRAMME (WCDMP) met in Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran, from 12 to 13 RA I Regional Training Seminar on March 2001. Discussions focused on the role of WMO Drought Preparedness in international efforts to monitor and protect the 343 environment through its programmes. Special atten­ A Regional Training Seminar held at the Drought tion was given to the need to formulate concrete rec­ Monitoring Centre (DMC) Nairobi, Kenya from 19 to ommendations to ensure that climate and environ­ 30 March 2001 concluded the Drought Preparedness mental matters were being dealt with in a project in 11 African countries supported by France, comprehensive, coordinated and effective manner by the United Kingdom and WMO (see WMO Bulletin 50 WMO, both from a programmatic and institutional (2), 161). The overall purpose of the project was to perspective. develop climatological applications for drought man­ The three principal recommendations from the agement utilizing the new Version 3.1 CLICOM system meeting are as follows: for climate data management. Therefore, as part of NMHSs need to identify and classify how their the project, either French or English CLICOM systems climate activities are relevant to the needs of the were installed in the 11 African countries participat­ environmental conventions, especially the ing, as appropriate. UNFCCC. This will allow them to participate Representatives from five English-speaking more effectively in national reporting processes countries of the project (Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozam- associated with the conventions; WMO and the NMHSs of its Member countries need to present their activities and services in terms of the socio-economic benefits to their respective communities and in terms of their contribution to sustainable development. Donor organizations are far more sensitive now to pro­ viding support on the basis of expected out­ comes rather than on the basis of infrastructure needed to achieve outcomes; Greater attention should be given to harmoniz­ ing the activities of the many stakeholders asso­ ciated with WMO climate and environmental activities, e.g. in the area of developing observa­ tional networks . The Group believes there is continuing merit in DMC Nairobi, Kenya, March 200 I - Two of the porticiponts in the Regional focusing on the need for a Third World Climate Con- Training Seminar on Drought Preparedness bique, Namibia and Swaziland) and also Zimbabwe attended the seminar in Nairobi. The following topics were covered: Introduction to the Windows version of INSTAT +; Climatic events and their relation to drought; Use and extensions of the FAO crop index; Spatial analysis; Principal Component Analysis (PCA); Seasonal forecasting; Weather sensitivity analysis; Climate change; Climatological products for users; CL/DATA software training in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia Cost-benefit analysis. The participants viewed the new features of the ers, the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute and CLICOM 3.1 software as a real improvement compared ATACO Ltd. will continue during the implementation. to the previous versions. With regards to applications In other Climate Database Management System for drought preparedness, they recommended that: developments, the WMO Task Team met in Geneva Similar workshops, focusing mainly on statistics, from 5 to 9 February 2001 to provide initial evalua­ spatial analysis, seasonal forecasting and cost­ tions of responses to the criteria questionnaire pro­ benefit analysis be organized once a year and vided by seven Members offering their systems (Aus­ extended to other countries in the region; tralia, Brazil, the Czech Republic, Jordan, the Russian 344 • WMO provide Members with spatial analysis Federation, Tunisia and Zimbabwe). Six of the Mem­ tools (GIS software packages) and training bers also submitted self-testing results relevant to (short-term training) to help countries develop their systems. When the evaluations have been com­ sound climate applications; pleted the performance against specified criteria will An e-mail discussion group should be established be posted on the WMO Website. to allow participants to exchange experiences. Since the seminar, a CD-ROM containing all the presentations and the INSTAT software has been cre­ ATMOSPHERIC RESEARCH AND ated and distributed to the participating countries. ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME Climatological database management Advisory Working Group for CAS system ( CLIDATA) training in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia The tenth session of the CAS Advisory Working Group took place in Guilin, China, 3-6 May 200 l. The meeting The Czech Republic's CL! DATA, one of the next genera­ benefited from the presence of CAS working group tion client/server database management systems that chairmen who reported on activities of their groups are being developed to replace the current CLICOM and presented plans for the future. software (see WMO Bulletin 50(!)), has been donated The main task for the group concerned both the to the Hydrometeorological Service of the Former programme and material arrangements for the next Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. The contribution of appropriate hardware and software has been made possible through a Trust Fund Agreement between the Ministry for the Environment of the Czech Republic and WMO for assistance with meteorology, hydrology and in developing countries. The second administrator training course was held in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia from 21 August to 8 September 2000. Mr Boris Seki­ rarski and Mrs Lidija Trajanowska, the two local administrators working on implementation of the system, attended the first week of the training and all the climatological department staff attended the sec­ Guilin, China, May 2001 - Participants in the tenth session of the CAS Advisory ond week. The cooperation of the CLIDATA develop- Working Group session of the Commission (CAS-XIII) which is Capacity building planned to take place in Oslo, Norway, 12-21 February Communications between different GAW 2002. This included deciding on a provisional agenda, components. topics and potential speakers for the scientific lec­ The specific observations, suggestions and rec­ tures, nature and scope of possible documents and ommendations formu lated by the Workshop were reviewing the future direction of the work of CAS in examined by the seventh session of the EC Panel of the light of WMO priorities. The gro up also reviewed Experts/CAS Working Group on Environmental Pollu­ progress on a draft statement, requested of CAS by the tion and which met immedi­ WMO Executive Council at its session in 2000, on the ately following the Workshop. The chairman of the EC scientific basis for, and limitations of, weather and cli­ Panel, Dr 0. Hov (Norway) , summed up the Workshop's mate forecasting. The draft will be subject to scrutiny conclusions: at CAS-XIII before approval by EC in June 2002. GAW was developing into a real entity; The World Wide Web co uld provide substanti al GLOBAL ATMOSPHERE WATCH benefits to GAW; GAW 2001 Workshop and EC Panel GAW should focus on its main priorities rather on Environmental Pollution and than adopt an encyclopaedic appro ach; Atmospheric Chemistry GAW should not limit itself to just station net­ works but look at all sys tems to sample the Although WMO's Global Atmosphere Watch Pro­ atmosphere; gramme is now more than 10 years old, representa­ A strong Secretariat is vital to its future tives of its main components have never had the progress. opportunity to come together and discuss develop­ The EC Panel meeting was structured along the 345 ment of GAW's operation. This was rectified when same lines as the Workshop. It examined in some some 60 participants from World Data Centres, World depth each of the six issues listed above and made Calibration Centres, global measuring stations, Scien­ some specific recommendations to improve a number tific Adviso ry Groups and Quality Assurance/Science of facets of GAW operation. On a more general level, Activity Centres met together in Geneva from 2 to 4 the Panel noted that GAW needed the continued strong April2001. support of WMO Members, that it was increasingly The Workshop programme was designed so as to being recognized as a credible world system able to allow all the major international GAW infrastructures provide input to environmental agreements, but that to describe briefly their operations and outline the it required extensive efforts from both the Secretariat challenges they faced. These presentations fed into a and GAW partners to seek external resources for net- series of break-out sessions that each examined one work maintenance, enhancement and training. of the six issues facing th e future development of The EC Panel also had the task of reviewing the GAW, namely: draft Strategic Implementation Plan for GAW for the Data management period 200 1- 2007. This Plan had been prepared Satellite activities through wide consultati on with stakeholders. The The GAW network of stations Panel agreed with its general format and thrusts and Cooperation between different programmes and organizations operating outside GAW Geneva, April 2001 -Participants in the GAW 200 1Workshop made only minor revisions to take into account the importance to governments of toxic emissions/depo­ sition and to include the substitutes for CFCs that form part of the Kyoto Protocol to the climate change convention. The reports of both the Workshop and EC Panel are available from the Secretariat. TROPICAL METEOROLOGY RESEARCH The CAS Working Group on Tropical Meteorology Research met in , Australia, from 29 May to rhe Public Weather Services Expert ream an Media Issues met in Minneapo/is, USA, I June 2001 under the chairmanship of Or Greg 26·30 June 2001. Holland (Australia). The session benefited from a number of invited experts conversant with develop­ junction with the American Meteorological Society's ments in the different components of the WMO 30th Conference on Broadcast Meteorology. It was Tropical Meteorology Programme. chaired by Mr Gerald Fleming (Ireland). Under its The Group expressed its satisfaction with the terms of reference, the Expert Team had to develop series of International Workshops on Tropical guidelines on improving the use of official, consistent Cyclones and Monsoon Studies. These Workshops information, improving media relations and weather provided excellent forums for interaction between on the Internet. researchers and forecasters and provided substantial In order to address the need for improved usage 346 outputs in the form of textbooks and forecast guides. of official and consistent meteorological information The Group recommended that the Fifth International the team developed guidelines that elaborate a num­ Workshop on Tropical Cyclones (IWTC- V) be organ­ ber of strategies as follows: ized in Cairns from 3-12 December 2002. In this Ensuring good coordination and communica­ regard, an International Committee chaired by Prof. tion within the NMS and between the NMS and Russell L. Elsberry (USA) was established. the media; The Group recognized that the Regional Work­ Designing appropriate and user-friendly public shops on Asian/African Monsoon Emphasizing Train­ weather services products; ing Aspects and the International Training Workshop Ensuring good knowledge by the media and on Tropical Limited Area Modelling have both played public of NMS services and their availability; important capacity-building roles, transferring Making NMS staff prominent to the media on a knowledge to many developing countries in the tropi­ routine basis. cal regions. The continuation of these workshops was As regards approaches to improve relations strongly recommended. between NMSs and the media: The Group reviewed and encouraged research The expert team developed guidance material activities with respect to tropical droughts and rain­ which included specific recommendations on producing systems, including the ITCZ, and also to improving the relationship between the NMSs and monsoon studies in South America. the media in order to address mutual concerns; The Working Group affirmed its need to con­ The guidelines also discuss how NMSs could tinue its collaboration with other WMO Programmes work with the media during delicate emergency and international organizations such as the WCRP, situations on a step-by-step basis with the aim TCP, the WWRP, ICSU, and the Meteorology Committee of transmitting vital information for the saving of the Pacific Science Association. of life and property; The question of working with the media on a daily basis was addressed, e.g. interacting with APPLICATIONS OF the media for the preparation and dissemination METEOROLOGY PROGRAMME of daily weather forecasts, climate outlooks, and participation in joint workshops, etc.; PUBLIC WEATHER SERVICES PROGRAMME The advantages of public education through the Expert Team on Media Issues media were highlighted, as well as ways in which A meeting of the Public Weather Services was held in an NMS can address possible misunderstand­ Minneapolis, USA, from 26 to 30 June 2001, in con- ings with the media. With regard to the provision of weather services chaired the meeting, which reviewed progress and on the Internet, a set of guidelines was prepared by reports of recent relevant meetings and discussed the expert team in which the following points were future activities and preparations for CAgM-XIII. elaborated: The group considered the draft contribution NMS policy in regard to access to weather infor­ concerning the Agricultural Meteorology Programme mation (free public access/commercial for inclusion in the Sixth WMO Long-term Plan and access/specialized access) needs to be clearly endorsed the proposals therein for new projects. In thought out and articulated; this connection, it was agreed that the new concept of The content to be placed on a Website should, Open Programme Area Groups (OPAGs), Expert Teams where possible, be expressed in the form of (ETs), and Implementation Teams (ITs), and a new maps, graphs and charts, making full use of Management Group would better achieve the objec­ Web-page technology; tives of CAgM, and strengthen and improve the links Forecasts for the national territory of an NMS with other commissions and regional associations .. should be reviewed by an experienced forecaster A wide range of other issues was discussed from before issue; the revision of the Guide to Agricultural Meteorologi ­ Hyperlinks should be employed to provide as cal Practices and the collection of case-studies of eco­ much background information as possible; nomically beneficial agrometeorological applications Web-pages need to be updated frequently and and services to a proposal for establishing a dedi­ consistently; cated forecasting desk for agriculture in every fore­ Direct model output charts on a Website need to casting centre and the business orientation of agrom­ be carefully presented to ensure consistency eteorological services and products. with the official forecast; In order to improve and strengthen the linkages 347 The NMS should ensure that the design and lay­ between the Agricultural Meteorology Programme out of its Web-pages are of high quality, to reflect and the user community, the Executive Council at its the quality of the underlying information and to 52nd session (2000) suggested that CAgM should enhance the image of the NMS; study the way in which advice on agricultural matters The NMS should realize that significant could be provided to regional associations or Mem- resources need to be devoted to the establish­ bers. A small working group of AWG reviewed this ment and maintenance of a Website, and should issue and proposed three courses of action: thus make appropriate arrangements for the Improve the functioning of the present Working availability of these resources. Groups in Agricultural Meteorology of regional Associations; AGRICULTURAL METEOROLOGY CAgM members to participate in National PROGRAMME Agrometeorological Committees, which should International Conference on Forecasting include farmers, agriculturalists, university from Days to Years researchers and extension personnel; Advisory Working Group members representing WMO was represented at the International Conference regional associations should advise presidents on Forecasting Monsoons from Days to Years, which thereof on agricultural and agrometeorological was organized by the Indian Meteorological Society, matters. the India Meteorological Department (!MD) and The group reviewed the preparations for CAgM­ WMO in New Delhi, India from 20 to 22 March 2001 in XIII, including organizational and programme connection with the !25th anniversary of the !MD. aspects. The AWG also reviewed and endorsed the The WMO presentation was entitled "Meteorology and proposal of the Secretariat to organize an Interna­ the global agricultural scenario". tional Workshop on Reducing Vulnerability of Agri­ Advisory Working Group of the culture and Forestry to Climate Variability and Cli­ Commission for Agricultural Meteorology mate Change in conjunction with CAgM-XIII to be held in October 2002. Twelve participants attended a meeting of the CAgM Baker Endowment Advisory Council Advisory Working Group (AWG) at the Institute of Agrometeorology and Environmental Analysis for WMO was represented at the meeting of the Baker Agriculture in Florence, Italy, from 2 to 5 April 2001. Endowment Advisory Council for Excellence in Dr Raymond Motha (USA), president of CAgM, Agronomy of Iowa State University (ISU) on l3 April 200 1 in Ames, Io wa, USA. The Baker Council was Adm inistration, Beijing, from 15 to 24 May 2001. Prof. established to provide advice to the Department of Luis S. Pereira (Portugal) conducted the sem inar, Agronomy of ISU on best uses of the Baker Endow­ which was attended by 25 participants from various ment Fund of US$ 80 milliion. The agenda for the meteorological institutes and bureaux all over China meeting included reviews of various progress reports as well as from the Training Centre. and considered future planning. The training programme covered numerous Meeting of the CLIMAG Task Force aspects of water scarci ty, aridity, dro ught, desertifica­ tion, and water shortage, including management and methodologies. Comp uter programs and meteorolog­ ical, soil and crop datasets were provided to the par­ ticipants for exercises and further use as train in g examples. Intersessional meeting of the Ad Hoc Working Group of the UNCCD

WMO was rep resented at the intersessional meeting of the Ad Ho c Work ing Group of the United Nat ions Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Bonn, Germany, from 19 March to 6 April 200 1. The meeting was part of an in-depth review process of the implementation of the UNCCD in view of the fifth ses­ 348 sio n of the Co nference of Parties (COP-S) (Geneva, The Task Farce an Climate Prediction and Agriculture of the Global Change System October 200 1). for Analysis, Research and Training met in Washington DC in April200 I. Over 170 countries, UN agencies, and interna­ tional and non-governmental organizations revised WMO was represented at th e meeting of the Task 11 4 national and subregio nal reports and made rec­ Force on Climate Prediction and Agriculture ommendations for strengthening the implementation (CLIMAG) of the Global Change Sys tem for Analys is, of the CCD. They discussed, among other subj ects, Research and Training in Washington DC on 17 and new strategies and policy frameworks, the implemen­ 18 April 2001. The agenda for the meeting included a tation review process, the financial mechanism for status review of CLIMAG projects in So uth Asia and the Convention and the strengthening of cooperation West Africa, CLIMAG-related strategic research, over­ between regions. all structure and coordination of CLIMAG, training WMO gave a prese ntation on th e measures taken and capacity building and long-term CLIMAG effort. to suppo rt th e implementation of the Convention. A Training course on methodologies for the summary was presented on th e involveme nt of the preparation of agrometeorological data National Meteo rolo gical and Hydro logical Services and their integration in early warning an d th e regional and subregional meteorological cen­ systems for the arid regions tres and examples of the activities organized or eo­ sponsored sin ce 1994 by WMO in Africa, Asia, Latin Th is co urse was held at the RMTC in IATA-CNR, Flo­ Amer ic a and th e Caribbean and other affec ted rence, Italy from 7 to 18 May 2001. The WMO repre­ regions. An ove rview was given on activities related sentative made a presentation on the Diffusion of to capacity building, information and public aware­ Agrometeorological Information for Early Warning ness on drought and desertification. Sys tems. Committee on World Food Security (CFS) Roving Seminar on the Application of Climatic Data for Drought Preparedness WMO was represented at th e 27th session of the CFS and Management of Sustainable in Rome, 28 May- 1 June 200 1. It was attended by dele­ Agriculture gates from 119 countries, representatives of United Nations agencies and Programmes and observers A WMO/FAO/UNEP Rov ing Seminar on the App li ca­ from one intergovernmental and 34 non-governmen­ tion of Climatic Data for Drought Preparedness and tal organizations. Management of Sustainable Agricul tu re was held at The main purpose was to discuss the assessment the Training Centre of the China Me te orological of the world foo d sec urity situati on and arrange- ments for the World Food Summit: five years later tial impact of climate change on the hydrological and (WFS:FYL) to be held at FAO headquarters, 5-9 water-resources regime, there is a need for hydrologi­ November 2001. cal data. The Assessment of the World Food Security Situ­ Much has been written in these pages in the past ation showed that the rate of reducing the number of of the inadequacy of many data-collection networks, undernourished people is still too slow. The number and the situation is not improving: in both developed of hungry people in the world is declining by only 8 and developing countries, hydrological stations moni­ million people a year, and not the 20 million a year toring surface- and groundwater are being reduced in which is necessary to meet the goal of the WFS . number or are falling into disrepair. Despite insufficient progress, the possibility to Nevertheless, there is still a large volume of achieve the goal by 2015 exists as the world has the hydrological data that is collected regularly through­ capacities and resources to eradicate hunger. The out the world; the challenge is to store and process it costs of non-decreasing hunger are immense. Atten­ and to make it available to those who need it for oper­ tion was drawn to the hunger hotspots. In March ational, design, scientific or educational purposes. Of 2001, some 60 million people in 35 countries were fac­ increasing importance is the need to make data avail­ ing food emergencies of varying intensity. Sub-Saha­ able outside the province, region or country in which ran Africa was the wrost affected region with 16 they were collected. In 1999, Thirteenth Congress countries suffering from exceptional food emergen­ adopted Resolution 25 (Cg-XIII)-Exchange of hydro­ cies , caused mostly by natural disasters and civil logical data and products-which sets out WMO's strife. policy for making such data widely available. For monitoring the food insecurity situation In November 2000, the WMO Commission for nationally and internationally and for assessing the Hydrology welcomed the adoption of this resolution 349 gap between the WFS goal and reality, the CFS and noted that reviewed the indicators proposed by the Inter-Agency the first step in Working Group of the Food Insecurity and Vulnera­ its implemen­ bility Information and Mapping System. tation was to The devastating impact of the HIV/AIDS epi­ ensure that demic on nutrition, health, agricultural production, everyone in a food security and economic and social development position to was discussed in-depth. AIDS was not referred to in apply it or ben­ the WFS Plan of Action, but will be a significant issue efit from it @) at the WFS:FYL. should be .,...... _ The CFS reviewed the application of appropriate aware of the -­ agricultural technology and practices and their policy it sets Exchanging Hydrological Data and Information (WMIJ. impact on food security and the eradication of out. Accord­ No . 925) has been issued in English, French, Russian poverty. It agreed on the positive impacts that the use ingly, the Corn- and Spanish of appropriate technologies can have in the form of mission improved income and food security for small farming responded to the request of Congress to prepare a households. Finally, the background documents pre­ brochure on the resolution, which has now been pub­ pared by FAO for the WFS:FYL were examined, which lished in English, French, Russian and Spanish (WMO­ covered the issues of fostering political will and No. 925) and is available from the WMO Secretariat. mobilizing resources to fight hunger, the new chal­ The Commission has also produced a technical lenges to the achievements of the WFS goals and sug­ note on the exchange of hydrological data as a com­ gested ways to overcome those obstacles. plement to Resolution 25 (Cg-XIII), in which advice is given as to the types of data that might be distributed and in what manner. This should be available in the HYDROLOGY AND WATER near future. RESOURCES PROGRAMME Finally, the Commission decided that efforts to Availability of hydrological data monitor the implementation of Resolution 25 (Cg­ XIII) would need to be based on systematic sampling Whether it is for designing drainage works, undertak­ rather than on efforts to measure directly the total ing studies of geophysical processes, estimating the flow of hydrological data. The task ahead is to estab­ local freshwater resources or investigating the paten- lish and then implement this sampling procedure, something that will be addressed by the Commis­ detailed design is being undertaken for the IGAD ­ sion's Advisory Working Group. HYCOS and plans are being developed for a La Plata­ Coordination ofWHYCOS activities HYCOS and a Hindu Kush Himal aya n-HYCOS in con­ sultation with the regional bodies concerned. The WHYCOS coordination mechanism, established One of the purposes of the WIAG meetings is to by the Secretary-General in June 1998, continues to provide an opportunity to share experiences and ben­ serve as a valuable vehicle to review programme efit from work which has been done within WHYCOS. activities and to develop future plans. As part of the In this connection, the three software applica tions for coordination arrangements, the WHYCOS Interna­ accessing databases developed by MED-HYCOS were tional Advisory Group (WIAG) meets once a year considered most valuable. MED-DAT, MED-MAP and under the chairmanship of the president of CHy and MED-CLIM are used for graphic and cartographic brings together representatives of donor agencies, representation of data series. Also noted with much coordinators of projects under implementation, interest were the measures taken within SADC-HYCOS regional hydrological advisers concerned, and the to prevent vandalism, especially that to solar panels. WMO Secretariat. The fourth meeting of the WIAG Inter-agency cooperation was held in the WMO Secretariat from 30 May to 1 June 2001 and was chaired by the new president of The formal mechanisms for ensuring coordination CHy, Mr D. Rutashobya. among agencies of the UN system have an important One of the main subjects of discussion was the role to play, none more than the ACC Subcommittee future plans for the three HYCOS projects for which on Water Resources, which is charged with such external support will terminate during the current responsibility in respect of freshwater matters. The 350 year. With regard to MED-HYCOS, France had agreed Subcommittee will meet at WMO Headquarters in to host the Pilot Regional Centre and to support its September 2001 for its 22nd session. It will have a full activities for another four years, while several partner agenda, including topics such as the International countries had offered to host specialized thematic Year of Freshwater in 2003 and progress with the centres which will address specific problems in the implementation of the World Water Assessment Pro­ region. With respect to SADC-HYCOS, a project docu­ gramme (WWAP). ment for a Phase II is under preparation which the As mentioned in pas t issues of the Bulletin, Netherlands has expressed interest in supporting. The WWAP is an interagency initiative designed to bring future plan for AOC-HYCOS is to develop a number of together the knowledge and efforts of the many UN subprojects based on the major river basins. These programmes in freshwater to undertake joint proj­ are described in a strategy paper prepared by the Sec­ ects. The current focus is on the preparation of a retariat and circulated to all stakeholders in June World Water Development Report. The first issue will 2001. Among the sub-projects, initial focus is being contain a review of progress in implementing the rec­ placed on the Niger River basin component. ommendations of the International Conference on Among the 12 other projects currently in the Water and the Environment (Dublin, January 1992) pipeline, project documents are already available for and the International Conference on Environment the Aral, Baltic and Carib HYCOSs and funding is and Development (Rio de Janeiro, June 1992). being sought for their implementation. Also, a Plans are under way to compile such a review and the WWAP Secretariat, which is hosted by UNESCO at its Headquarters in Paris, has re ce ntly brought together a team of international experts to contribute to this effort. They are compiling informa­ tion on meeting basic needs, food security, protection of ecosystems, water for energy and for industry, sharing of water resources, managing risk, valuing water, governing water wisely, and ensuring the knowledge base. The main policy iss ues arising from this review will be prese nted to the International Conference on Freshwater that is being convened by Germany in The WHY COS International Advisory Group held its fourth meeting in Geneva from Bonn in December 2001 and a fuller version of the 30 May to 1June 2001 . review will then be submitted to the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, South Coordination Node led by WMO, which has the follow­ Africa, in September 2002. The first edition of the ing aims: complete World Water Development Report will be Developing projects and strategies in various launched at the Third World Water Forum in Kyoto in countries and regions, with an emphasis on March 2003. Information on the WWAP and work on regional cooperation and improved decision­ the WWDR can be found on the following Website: making in the management of floods and flood http://www.unesco.org/water/wwap. plains; Cooperation is also important on a bilateral Improving the capacity of national and regional basis between agencies within the UN system. The bodies in the field of flood management and closest and longest standing of such agreements is IWRM; that between WMO and UNESCO. In 1999, the two Coordinating regional activities; Organizations convened the Fifth UNESCO/WMO Compiling up-to-date information on best prac­ International Conference on Hydrology that was tices and their presentation as a "tool box"; hosted by WMO in Geneva. Until the convening of the Developing specific recommendations for imple­ next Conference, the Joint UNESCO/WMO Liaison menting new approaches to flood management Committee for Hydrological Activities meets on an that incorporate social, as well as technical and annual basis. economic, aspects; The 22nd session of this Committee met in Establishing a network of centres of excellence Geneva at the close of EC-LIII and welcomed to its and a resource centre and focus for international membership Mr Datius Rutashobya (Republic of Tan­ activities in flood prevention and management; zania), the newly elected president of CHy, and Mr Bridging the gap between engineering solutions Rainder Feddes (The Netherlands), the new chairman and the socio-economic environment. 351 of UNESCO's Intergovernmental Council for the Inter­ Present status national Hydrological Programme. Once again, the meeting offered an opportunity for the participants to Meetings held in Wallingford and Washington have update each other on a wide range of issues of com­ seen commitments by Japan and The Netherlands to mon interest. The discussions that followed led to fund the Global Coordination Node with a plan for this agreements on finalizing the third edition of the Inter­ to run initially over a period of 56 months. The first national Glossary of Hydrology, the re-launch of WCP­ eight months will be an inception phase starting in Water (the Web-page will be accessible before the end August 2001, during which detailed plans will be laid of 2001), negotiations with The Netherlands regarding for the remaining four years. An Interim Steering the International Groundwater Resources Assessment Committee has been established to oversee this phase, Centre and WMO inputs to the project on Hydrology chaired by Dr T. Jonch-Clausen. for the Environment, Life and Policy (HELP). Countries in the Hindu-Kush Himalayan Associated Programme (AP) on Flood region agree on a concept for cooperation Management -global coordination in flood information exchange Brief description A high-level consultative meeting "Developing a Flood management is a broad concept that focuses on Framework for Flood Forecasting in the Hindu Kush reducing flood hazards through a combination of pol­ Himalayan Region" was held in Kathmandu, Nepal, icy, institutional, regulatory and physical measures. The from 15 to 18 May 2001. It was jointly organized by the AP has a thematic coverage related to integrated water­ International Centre for Integrated Mountain Devel­ resources management and is global in extent. Close opment and WMO and was eo-hosted by the Depart­ links will be established with a range of international ment of Hydrology and Meteorology of Nepal. The activities in the field of flood management, including meeting attracted some 60 participants from ProVention of the World Bank, the regular programmes Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Pakistan, Nepal and ofWMO and UNESCO, the joint initiative ofThe Nether­ Pakistan, including five PRs, international experts on lands and the World Bank and the well-established floods and flood forecasting and observers from activities of a number of NGOs. Special attention will be international organizations. The deliberations paid to covering all aspects of flood management, focused on conceptual, organizational and technical including social and economic implications. aspects of a planned flood forecasting system in the The AP is being developed on the basis of a region. In this respect, the participants agreed on the series of regional nodes linked through a Global development of a regional cooperation project for Kothmondu, Nepal, May 200 I -Participants in the consultative meeting "Developing a Framework for Flood Forecasting in the Hindu Kush Himoloyon ce ntres, increasing co here nc e among participants Region" (including common measurement protocols}, sharing techniques and products and producing global prod­ flood information exchange in the Hindu Kush ucts for key hydrological variables. An initial Coordi­ Himalaya n reg ion on the basis of the WHYCOS con­ nation-Implementation Group (CIG) has been formed cept (HKH -HYCOS). In particular, the delegates agreed by th e participating centres and experts, which will on th e fo ll owing items to be implemented over the be open to additional participants. The principal next 12 months: nomination of a consultative panel, sponsors, namely HWR, GCOS and GTOS, have agreed development of a concept briefing note, form ul atio n on a coordinator (David Harvey from the Meteorolog­ of a HKH-HYCOS projec t proposal, establishment of a ical Se rvice of Ca nada) for th e CIG , who will have mechanism for the exchange of regional information res ponsibilities for overseeing the initial tasks such 352 and preparations for a fo llow- up technical meeting as establishing a Web-page for GTN-H and developing and an HKH-HYCOS cons ul ta tive panel meeting in the initial product se t. Jun e/july 2002. From data to product generation in global Global Terrestrial Network-Hydrology hydrology: GRDC sets new targets (GTN-H) The fifth meeting of the GRDC Steering Co mmittee As a fo ll ow-up to a first planning meeting for th e was held from 25 to 28 June 200 1 in Koblenz, Ger­ establishm ent of a global hydrological observing net­ many. The meeting was hosted by the Federal Insti­ wo rk fo r climate (see WMO/TD-No. 1047} in Geisen­ tute of Hydrology. The meeting was attended by rep­ heim, Germany, in June 2000, an expert meeting was resentatives of UN agencies, CHy and japan. The ho sted by the Global Runoff Data Centre (GRDC) at president of CHy, Prof. Datius Rut ashobya, was also the Federal Inst itute of Hydrology in Koblenz, Ger­ present at the meeting. Majo r issues centred on the many from 21 to 22 June 200 1. There was significant expansion and spatial coverage of the database of participation at the meeting of experts from th e GRDC, the development of a me ta-database for hydro­ major international centres involve d in collectin g, logica l data, the ge neration of global and re gional quality-co ntrolling, archiving and producing routine products in collaboration with highl y recognized global hydrolog ical products, including the Global institutions and the assessment of the data policy of Precipitation Climatology Centre, the Global Environ­ GRDC. With regard to the expansion of the database, ment Monitoring System (GEMS/WATER) Collaborat­ emphasis will be laid on obtaining mo re timely in g Centre, the GRDC and the Global Terrestrial Observing System (GTOS}, as well as national experts. The objective was to develop an implementation strategy for an initial GTN-H, the definiti on of a co m­ mon approach to its implementation and the identifi­ cation of specific act ions for the initial implementa­ tion. The expe rt meet ing was also expected to provide a robust framework for the co ordination and admin­ istration of GTN -H. The group reached consensus on th e main issues related to implementation. Key char­ acte ri st ics of th e network include building on exist­ in g networks as much as possible, usin g existing The GRDC Steering Committee held its fifth meeting from 25to 28 June 200 1in national and regional data and product development Koblenz, Germany. updates of the time series already in the GRDC data­ donor community, international organizations and base, and the greater coverage of data-sparse regions, NGOs. especially in Africa. To ensure an improved control of The development partners endorsed initial data quality, an advanced data plausibility tool has financial support of at least US$ 140 million to been implemented recently. In response to user finance the full programme. Support was also requirements, GRDC has also been tasked to develop expressed to underwrite the firs t phase of a US$ 3 bil­ and implement a focused meta-database allowing lion investment programme in the sub-basins users to make first judgements on the utility of The Consultative Group (CG) endorsed its sup­ selected data sets for their purposes. Top priority in port for the Initiative's goals and commitment to the development of new data products has been working with the Nile States in the years to come. In assigned to the automated collection of hydrological view of the importance of the Shared Vision Pro­ data worldwide, which are accessible through the gramme (SVP) of the NB! and its relevance to WMO's Internet, and the compilation of a mapping product Programmes, WMO participated in the meeting and is for global on-line hydrological data. This activity will ready to provide its expertise and partially contribute also serve as an important input for the Global Ter­ to the projects in the SVP and its subsidiary action restrial Network-Hydrology (GIN-H). Within the word programmes related to capacity building (applied and spirit of Resolution 25 (Cg-XIII), the meeting dis­ training) and water resources assessment (Water cussed options to further ease access to GRDC data. Resources Planning and Management, Flood Pre­ These options were also discussed during the CHy paredness and Early Warning Sub-Project). WMO is Advisory Working Group in September 2001 and also ready to contribute to projects dealing with the relayed back to GRDC for implementation. GRDC will impact of climate change on water resources in the continue to collaborate and actively participate in Nile Basin. 353 major programmes of WMO and other UN agencies, including GEWEX, WCP- Water, GCOS, GTN-H and GEMS/Water. EDUCATION AND TRAINING WMO and the Nile Basin Initiative PROGRAMME Forthcoming training events The Nile Basin Initiative (NB!), formally launched in February 1999 by the Council of Ministers of Water Two training events on marketing meteorological Affairs of the Nile Basin States, embraces all Nile products and a regional training seminar for national countries and provides an agreed basin-wide frame­ instructors of RA I and RA VI are planned to be held work to fight poverty and promote socio-economic during 2002. Venues and dates will be communicated development in the region. The Initiative is guided by later. a Shared Vision: "to achieve sustainable socio-eco­ Recent training events nomic development through the equitable utilization of, and benefit from, the common Nile Basin water Regional Training Seminar for National resources". Instructors of RA II and RA V To raise broader donor support for NB! and its This seminar was held at the WMO Regional Meteoro­ portfolio of cooperative projects, the first meeting of logical Training Centre (RMTC) in Nanjing, China, the International Consortium for Cooperation on the from 7 to 18 May 2001. Prof. Sun Zhaobo, President of Nile (ICCON) was held at the Palais des Nations, the Nanjing Institute of Meteorology, and the Director Geneva, from 26 to 28 June 2001 to secure commit­ ments in support of current Initiative programmes in the order of US$ 200 million over the next three to six years for the implementation of the Shared Vision projects and for the preparation of projects identified under the Subsidiary Action Programme and to lay foundations for financing future investments. The meeting was attended by 195 participants. It was led by the Nile Council of Ministers, which includes the Ministers of Water Affairs of the 10 ripar­ ian countries. It was also attended by some Ministers Nanjing, China, May 200 I - Participants in the Regional Training Seminar for of Finance and Planning and representatives from the Naffonallnstrurtors of RA 11 and RA V of the WMO Education and Training Department wel­ comed participants. The main purpose was to promote adequate stan­ dards in methods and tech­ nologies for teaching mete­ orological personnel and to update the participants' knowledge of recent devel­ opments in the areas of meteorology, hydrology and related fields. ThirtY- 0 ne Part i c i- Participants in the 29th study tour of China (May 200 I) pants from 25 countrtes attended the seminar. Eleven lecturers gave presenta- A workshop was organized at the end of the tions, including practical examples and case-studies, study tour under the chairmanship of the Adminis- on a wide range of topics. trator of the CMA, Dr Qin Dahe, and with the partici- Presentations by some participants on their pation of senior staff. The participants made short national training activities generated useful discus- presentations on their National Meteorological Ser- sions and an exchange of views on dealing with prob- vice, and their impressions of the study tour. Their 354 !ems related to training programmes in their respec- remarks included their appreciation of the support tive countries. given by the Government to the continued develop- The participants formulated a series of recom- ment and modernization of meteorological facilities, mendations. These included promoting the exchange as well as the user-oriented and result-oriented phi- of lecturers between RMTCs, and between RMTCs and losophy of the CMA and its projects in commercial- Member countries and of training materials between ization and specialized services. the WMO RMTCs, which RMTCs were also encour- aged to put on their Web page. Lecturers should pro­ vide some teaching resources and use new teaching TECHNICAL COOPERATION technologies in their presentations. PROGRAMME China Study Tour Study on the prediction and amelioration of socio-economic impacts of El Nine participants from as many countries (Albania, Niiio/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in Boznia and Herzegovina, Egypt, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, Latin America and the Caribbean Sierra Leone, Togo, Tonga and the United Arab Emi­ rates) participated in a study tour of China from 14 to The ENSO project is executed by WMO with the col­ 25 May 2001. laboration of the International Research Institute for This was the 29th such tour in the series which climate prediction (!RI), the International Food Policy started in 1976 for the Directors of National Meteoro­ Research Institute (IFPRI), the Office of Global Pro­ logical Services or their representatives. They have grammes and the Office of the Chief Economist of the been found most beneficial and are a good example of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration technical cooperation among developing countries. (NOAA/OGP) . Mr Wen Jiabao, Vice-Premier of the State Council, A Coordinating Committee Meeting was held at received the participants and highlighted the impor­ the Inter-American Development Bank (!DB) head­ tance of meteorology in national, social and economic quarters in Washington DC in November 2000 to development. review the status and progress of the activities car­ The participants visited the facilities of the ried out according to the Work Plan. An evaluation of China Meteorological Administration (CMA) in Bei­ technical and institutional capacities in the region to jing, and in the provinces of Henan, Jiangsu and produce and make use of ENSO predictions was car­ Guangdong and were briefed on meteorological oper­ ried out in 19 of the 26 participating countries. The ations and activities at the national, regional, provin­ report will be distributed to all countries and institu­ cial, prefectural and municipal levels. tions participating in the ENSO study. The !RI organized training sessions aimed at SIDS-Caribbean Project disseminating and explaining the value of climate A meeting to launch the Project "Preparedness to Cli­ forecasts for the Central American region in San Jose, mate Variability and Global Change in Small Island Costa Rica, during February 2001, and in Santa Fe, Developing States, Caribbean Region" was held in Argentina, for South American and Caribbean coun­ Bridgetown, Barbados, on 3 and 4 May 2001. The tries, from 30 April to 6 May 2001. meeting was attended by representatives of the The IFPRI has initiated the analysis of the socio­ Bahamas, Cuba, Dominican Republic, the Netherlands economic impacts of ENSO in Honduras, Jamaica, Antilles, the Caribbean Meteorological Organization Mexico and Peru. NOAA/OGP is proceeding with the (CMO), WMO and observers from France and the USA. development of the cost-benefit case study on the The objectives of the meeting we re: (a) to present the value of additional information for climate prediction. project; (b) to present the status of the agreements Project initiative in Brazil between WMO and participating organizations/coun­ tries; (c) to inform about arrangements for the proj­ The Brazilian National Water Agency (ANA) was estab­ ect implementation, including staffing and office lished in July 2000, with the aim of implementing the space at the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and national water-resources policy and coordinating the Hydrology (CIMH); (d) to review the main compo­ national water-resources management system. nents of the project and approaches for development The Government of Brazil has launched an initia­ of the detailed work plan; and (e) to introduce the tive with the ANA to carry out a technical cooperation Project Team Leader, Mr Steve Pollonais. The SIDS­ project with the collaboration of WMO. The aim is to Caribbean Project will be based at the CIMH in Barba­ draw up a programme to modernize and improve dos and its implementation will take 36 months. hydrological monitoring and georeferencing systems, WMO has completed agreements with Cuba, 355 so as to make better use of water resources and modern Dominican Republic, Haiti, CMO and CIMH for imple­ technology, with the support of relevant institutions. mentation of the SIDS- project. A Steering Committee, The first phase of the project aims to identify the will be established which will meet twice a year under public and private institutions having activities in the the chairmanship of WMO. The project will also field of water resources, and their immediate needs. establish a Supervisory Board. Before a plan to modernize hydrological monitoring The meeting recommended that all possibilities and georeferencing systems is drawn up, the existing should be considered for the design of a robust national hydrometeorological networks will be telecommunication system for operation in the assessed. A series of training courses and technical Caribbean. This sys tem should initially provide workshops will then be held. There will be activities urgent solutions to the current telecommunication at the national and international level concerning the problems facing the small islands, but with strategic application and transfer of technology in the areas of vision to take into account the planned upgrade or monitoring, georeferencing, information systems and redesign of the RMTN . The meeting further recom­ technical instruments. All institutions in the field of mended that all efforts be made to carry out some of water resources will benefit, whether directly or indi­ the urgent actions required before the upcoming hur­ rectly, in areas such as sanitation, irrigation, naviga­ ncane season. tion, fish farming, tourism, agriculture, electricity and Other project components reviewed included the water conservation. rehabilitation and upgrading of the observing net­ Water Resources Management work; the renovation of the regional technical labora­ Project in Mexico tory for the calibration and maintenance of instru­ ments; the upgrading of the database-management Activities continue satisfactorily under the ongoing systems; the implementation of data-resc ue pro­ agreement between WMO and the National Water grammes; training; and awareness building. Commission (CNA) of Mexico, whose purpose is the The meeting noted that the changing face of provision of technical assistance services in several meteorology in the Caribbean required a modifica­ project components, as part of the implementation of tion of traditional approaches to training in order to the large-scale Water Resources Management Project, meet special and emerging demands in NMHSs. The funded by the World Bank and the Mexican Govern­ session was reminded of the need to avoid gender ment. To date, 66 technical reports have been finalized discrimination in its recruitment/promotion policies and are being distributed to all areas concerned in wherever practicable. The session recognized the CNA for their corresponding utili zation. need to increase visibility of meteorological services and to sensitize decision-makers. Higher and moe 2001-the same year as the lOth anniversary of favourable visibility would be achieved through Uzbekistan's becoming an independent State. increased and improved products to the public, sup­ Meteorological and hydrological observations ported by a greater diversification of services while have been carried out in Uzbekistan for over 100 maintaining a focus on disaster management. years, starting in the mid-19th century. Central Asia's SATCC Third Sub-sectorial Committee first meteorological station was opened in Tashkent Meeting on Meteorology (SCOM) in 1867. The last 80 years have seen the intensive development of Uzbekistan's hydrometeorological The third meeting of SCOM of the Southern Africa observing network, the introduction of new areas of Transport and Communications Commission (SATCC) research, data-collection and processing systems, was held in Morogoro, United Republic of Tanzania, methods for forecasting weather, river flow and the from 23 to 26 April 2001. Representatives from 13 of agrometeorological conditions favouring the optimal the 14 Member States of the Southern Africa Develop­ production of basic crops. ment Community (SADC) attended the meeting. The Government of Uzbekistan pays consider­ SCOM meets annually to review and coordinate the able attention to the NMS's activities. In 1992, after operational activities of the SADC National Meteoro­ the declaration of independence on 1 September logical Services (NMSs) . 1991, the NMS was given the status of a State organi­ The meeting considered a variety of issues. These zation with the full rights of a ministry: the Main included the SATCC Ten-year Meteorology Develop­ Administration of Hydrometeorology of the Cabinet ment Programme, the operational activities of the of Ministers of Uzbekistan (Glavhydromet}. On 2 Jan­ Harare DMC, the Southern Africa Regional Climate uary 1993, Uzbekistan became a Member of the World 356 Outlook Forum (SARCOF) and the meteorological con­ Meteorological Organization. tribution to natural disaster preparedness and mitiga­ Glavhydromet currently operates more than 400 tion. It made several important recommendations, observing stations located all over the country in all including the need to review the Ten-year Meteorology types of terrain, including deserts and high moun­ Development Programme (1993-2003) taking into tains, carrying out regular meteorological, hydrologi­ account scientific and technological developments, as cal and agrometeorological observations and moni­ well as the ongoing restructuring process in SAD C. toring air, surface water and soil pollution. The Sub-committee also reviewed the activities Glavhydromet comprises a Hydrometeorological carried out by the DMC, including data collection and Centre and departments for environmental pollution archiving, generation and dissemination of climate monitoring, meteorological services to aviation, products and information, organization of SARCOF-4 weather modification and management of surface and two capacity-building workshops. The meeting systems and observations, the computerized expressed its appreciation for the positive contribu­ "Meteoinfosystem" and international technical and tion the DMC was making towards the social-eco­ scientific cooperation. nomic development of the region and recommended Glavhydromet carries out many research, experi­ that all necessary steps be taken to ensure its long­ mental, design and training projects and its Central term sustainability. Asian Hydrometeorological Research Institute The meeting also made a number of recommen­ (SANIGMI) carries out research for the central Asian dations aimed at enhancing the development of NMSs region in the fields of meteorology, climatology, in the region. These mainly concerned the Protocol on weather forecasting at various ranges and regional Transport, Communications and Meteorology, SARCOF, climate change problems. The work of SANIGMI is restructuring, marketing and cost-recovery activities, well known as regards mathematical modelling, education and training, and the PUMA Task Team proj­ glaciology, water-resource assessment and forecasting ect relating to the METEOSAT Second Generation. methods, as well as the assessment of agroclimatic resources and agrometeorological conditions for agricultural development. IN THE REGIONS Weather modification is highly developed in Uzbek Hydrometeorological Service: both research and operational work. The scientific 80years enterprise "Hydrometpribor", which is part of Glavhy­ dromet, develops and launches electronic measuring The National Hydrometeorological Service (NMS) of apparatus. Glavhydromet continues to train specialist Uzbekistan celebrated its 80th anniversary on 5 May meteorologists at the Tashkent Hydrometeorological Training College, which has been a WMO Regional Researchers, teachers and students in meteorol­ Meteorological Training Centre since 1994. ogy and climatology, as well as operational weather Glavhydromet participates in various interna­ forecasters and related personnel thus have at their tional technical and scientific activities and is disposal a reference for further understanding the actively involved in the implementation of all WMO mechanisms of the atmospheric general circulation programmes. As one of 29 Regional Meteorological and for the weather and climatic evolution in the Centres in the World Weather Watch since 1967, its Asian monsoon region. mandate is to collect and disseminate meteorological The Climatological Atlas for Asian Summer Mon­ information in its subregion. soon is published in Chinese and English by the Glavhydromet serves as facilitator regarding Macao Foundation. ISBN 99937-1-01 5-6; xvii + 318 pp. national implementation of the UN Framework Con­ Price: MOP$ 400 (US$1 = MOP$ 8.01 ). Contact Leong vention on Climate Change and the UN Convention to Nga Tou by telephone: (853) 9880224 or 9880210 or by Combat Desertification. Furthermore, it participates fax: (853) 968658. in the implementation of many international agree­ Conference of Commonwealth ments, such as Agenda 21, the International Decade Meteorologists* for Natural Disaster Reduction, the Vienna Conven­ tion for Protection of the and the Mon­ The Conference of Commonwealth Meteorologists was treal Protocol, etc. held at the Met Office College, Shinfield Park, Reading, Glavhydromet was one of the initiators of the United Kingdom, from 18 to 22 June 2001. The theme Cooperation Agreement on Hydrometeorology of the Conference was "Working together to improve between the countries of the Commonwealth of Inde­ weather, water, climate and related environmental pendent States and its Intergovernmental Council on services in all Commonwealth countries". It was 357 Hydrometeorology. It cooperates actively with the attended by representatives of 32 Commonwealth UNDP, UNEP, UNESCO, the World Bank, the Asian Bank countries, including 18 Permanent Representatives of for Reconstruction and organizations in Germany, Member countries with WMO as well as a representa- japan, Switzerland, the USA and other countries to tive of the International Association of Broadcast develop and implement hydrometeorological and eco­ Meteorology. The Conference was opened by Mr Peter logical projects. Ewins, Director of the United Kingdom Met Office and To celebrate its 80th anniversary, Glavhydromet Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom intends to implement far-reaching plans to develop with WMO. Dr Ken Lum, Director of the Science and and improve its activities in hydrometeorological Technology Division of the Commonwealth Secretariat production and environmental pollution monitoring and Secretary to the Commonwealth Science Council, in the interests of Uzbekistan and the international also addressed the Conference. community. The main themes were: Climatological Atlas for Asian Working together to improve the provision of Summer Monsoon warnings of severe weather events; Trends and developments in service provision; The Climatological Atlas for Asian Summer Monsoon Working together to improve services to particu­ has been published as a collaborative effort of the lar sectors; Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau and Zhong­ Benefits of meteorological and related environ­ shan University of Macao, China, with the support of mental services; the Macao Foundation. It is the first comprehensive Authoritative scientific voice in policy making; atlas of its kind ever published and is an important Trends and developments affecting the global milestone in monsoon climatology research. basic infrastructure and the role of NMHSs. The main feature of the atlas is the presentation A major outcome was the "Reading Declaration­ onset, development and decay of Asian summer man­ The way forward" . The Declaration calls for the con­ soon by pentad. The atlas was based on the National vening of regular meetings of Directors of Meteorolog­ Center for Environmental Perdition and the National ical Services of Commonwealth countries and the Center for Atmospheric Research 40-year (1958-1997) exploration of avenues for establishing a formal status re-analysis data. Within in its pages and on four CD­ for the Conference and the establishment of a Steering ROMS are contained various charts of meteorological Group to initiate and monitor follow-up action during elements and seasonal mean charts for the four decades in question. Meetings organized every four years by the Met O ff ice the intersessional period. The Steering Group was through the exchange of personnel, transfer of tech­ entrusted with the responsibility of preparing position nology and organization of regular and specialized papers on relevant issues related to weather, water, cli­ training programmes. mate and environment and cooperation for considera­ The Conference also discussed the question of the tion by the biennial Commonwealth Heads of State and minimum level of services that could be provided by Governments meetings and the annual meetings of the NMHSs and agreed to the establishment of a Common­ Commonwealth Finance Ministers. wealth Meteorological Website to highlight the activi­ In addition, the Directors of Meteorological Ser­ ties of the NMSs within the Commonwealth and vices of Commonwealth countries were invited to exchange relevant information. work together to strengthen relationships and estab­ The outcome of the Conference marks an impor­ lish partnerships among the NMHSs within the tant development in international cooperation in Commonwealth, as well as with WMO and other rele­ meteorology. As a way of further supporting this initia­ vant bodies. By mobilizing resources within the tive, it is also proposed to develop a Memorandum of Commonwealth and with other funding agencies, it Understanding between WMO and the Commonwealth is planned to strengthen capacity building activities Secretariat.

News & notes

358 Survey on the information divide in minutes to complete. Surveys will be collected until meteorology, climate and related sciences August or September 2002 and replies will be kept Evidence reveals a gap in the access to scientific strictly confidential, if desired. information between developed and developing Copies of the survey and further information countries. This information divide appears to include are available from Dr Andrew Gettelman Information research articles, data and forecasts, as well as diffi­ Survey, ASP Program, National Center for Atmos­ culty in presenting information to colleagues work­ pheric Research, Box 3000, Boulder, CO 80307-3000, ing in different locations around the world. The diffi­ USA. Internet: http://www.net.asp.ucar.edu/infoex culty is particularly noticeable in electronic E-mail: [email protected] communication. Fax: + 1-303-497-1646. A survey is being conducted to try to quantify Your help will help to better define the needs of the scope of this information divide in the fields of developing country scientists and direct the meteorology, climatology, hydrology and atmos­ resources to meet these needs. pheric sciences. The survey is an important compo­ International Weather Festival nent of a larger project to identify common concerns and problems among researchers, and to develop The International Weather Festival was created in specific proposals and ideas to remedy the problems 1991 by Fran~ois Fandeux in Issy-Les-Moulineaux identified. Results of the survey and recommenda­ (near Paris, France). It gathers together reporters, sci­ tions will be available by late 2002. entists, presenters and producers working in the field The survey is targeted at scientists working in of meteorology. The first Festival was attended by rep­ the field from developing countries worldwide, includ­ resentatives of 25 TV channels in 16 countries. Since ing researchers studying climate impacts, extreme then, more than 100 international TV or radios chan­ events or the social impacts of weather and climate. nels attend the event each year. The project organizers need you to identify the needs The 11th Festival was held in Montreal, Canada, of the community. Based on these data, attempts will from 24 to 27 May. The Festival trophy was won by be made to direct resources to those needs. Evelyne Dhe!iat (France/TF1 ). The Scientists' Prize The project organizers would like to encourage was won by Florence Klein (France/France 3) and researchers at all levels in developing countries to Dominique Schibli (Switzerland/TSR). The Presen­ participate in the survey and to spread the word to ters' Prize was awarded to Claire Martin their colleagues. The survey is available as a few sim­ (Canada/Global TV). ple pages of text, and should take no more than 15-20 Other prizes were awarded as follows: Europe-Peter Tanev (Denmark/TV2) model, which explicitly accounted for the runback Americas-Melissa Barrington (USA/Weather Channel) and subsequent freezing of liquid. He also took part Asia-Masako Otosuka (Japan/The Weather News) in the construction of the first refrigerated marine Middle East-Tony El-Khoury (Arab World/MBC) icing wind tunnel. Africa-Hema Paupiah (Mauritius/MBC) As Professor, he has supervised 23 M.Sc. stu­ TV -Paul Gross (USA/ WDITV) dents and seven Ph.D. students. Many of these are Radio-Josee-Elise Paquet (Canada/ MeteoMedia) now key figures in meteorological research, teaching, Print- Jean -Paul Croize (Prance/Le Figaro) administration and operations in Canada and else­ Fran<;ois Fandeux launched an appeal "SOS cli­ where. Dr Lozowski continues to be active on meteor­ mate". All participants pledged to keep the public ological committees, as an invited speaker and as an aware about climate change by providing more infor­ expert witness. mation on the issue via all available media channels. The Patterson Distinguished Service Medal, pre­ Patterson Distinguished Service Medal sented since 1954, recognizes outstanding work in mete­ orology by residents of Canada. It is named in honour of Dr Edward Lozowski, Professor of Meteorology in the Dr John Patterson, Director and Controller of the Meteo­ Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the rological Service of Canada, from 1929 to 1946. University of , was awarded the 2000 Patters on New environmental journal Distinguished Service Medal for outstanding service to meteorology in Canada on 29 May 2001 at the annu­ The Canadian NRC (National Research Council) al Congress of the Canadian Meteorological and Research Press is adding a 15th journal to its list of Oceanographic Society in Winnipeg, Manitoba. serial publications. The new peer-reviewed bi- Dr Lozowski is a leading international expert on monthly Journal of Environmental Engineering and 359 all aspects of ice accretion, a costly and deadly natural Science (JEES) is now accepting submissions for Vol- ha za rd that includes hail, aircraft icing, power line ume 1, scheduled for January 2002. icing and marine icing. His contributions include sig­ The JEES will address all aspects of environ­ nificant innovations in the measurement, under­ mental engineering and applied environmental sci­ standing and modelling of the phenomenon. The goal ence. By consolidating a wide range of environmental of his research is to develop design and operational research topics in the new journal, NRC Research strategies to mitigate the risks and effects of ice Press hopes to promote more interdisciplinary accretion, thereby reducing its substantial economic research collaboration to address the multi-faceted losses, and contributing to human safety. nature of global environmental problems. As a student of Roland List, he performed the With a distinguished international editorial first laboratory and theoretical research directed at board, the journal will provide an attractive and understanding hailstone aerodynamics. This was fol­ effective global forum for the dissemination of inter­ lowed up with in situ high-speed photography of hail. disciplinary environmental research. In collaboration with Mr J.R. Stallabrass during their For a guide to authors, use the instructions for research on aircraft icing at the National Research authors on the Journal of Environmental Engineering Council, Dr Lozowski devised the first ice-accretion and Science Website at http:lliees.nrc.ca.

#t:News from the Secretariat :·-:.: - .

Secretary-General's visits Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography The Secretary-General, Prof. G.O.P. Obasi, recently and Marine Meteorology made official visits to a number of Member coun­ The Secretary-General visited Akureyri, Iceland, tries as briefly reported below. He wishes to place for the first session of the Joint WMO/IOC Tech­ on record his gratitude to those Members for the nical Commission for Oceanography and Marine kindness and hospitality offered to him. Meteorology, which took place from 19 to 29 June 2001. Prof. Obasi thanked the Government Regional Roundtable Meeting of for hosting and providing substantial support for Eminent Persons the session. He also thanked the Icelandic Meteoro­ At the invitation of Dr Mostafa K. Tolba, President of logical Office and the City and the University of the International Centre for Environment and Devel­ Akureyri for their warm and generous hospitality. opment, and Mr Nitin Desai, Under-Secretary-Gen­ eral for Economic and Social Affairs of the United Nations, the Secretary-General participated in the Regional Roundtable Meeting of Eminent Persons in Cairo, Egypt, from 25 to 27 June 2001. The meeting was part of the preparations for the World Summit on Sustainable Development (Johannesburg, South Africa, September 200 I). The Secretary-General was received by HE Prof. Ibrahim Eldomairi, Minister of Transport of Egypt, with whom he had extensive discussions on the strengthening of the excellent relationship between Egypt and WMO, and support to the Egyptian Meteo­ rological Authority. He also met with Mr Amr Moussa, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States (LAS), and had useful discussions on strength­ ening the cooperation between WMO and the LAS, in 360 particular its Permanent Committee on Meteorology. The Secretary-General also had discussion on mat­ ters of mutual interest with Mr A.M. Rebba, Perma­ nent Representative of Egypt with WMO. European Commission

Reykiavik, Iceland, June 200 I -Prof. G.O.P. Obasi, Secretary·General of WMO, At the invitation of the President of the European with HE Or Olafur Ragnar Grimsson, President of Iceland Commission (EC), Prof. Romano Prodi, the Secretary­ General visited EC Headquarters in Brussels on 24 The Secretary-General was received by HE Dr July 2001. Olafur Ragnar Grimsson, President of Iceland, and The Secretary-General highlighted the present exchanged views on a wide range of subjects related to areas of cooperation between WMO and the EC, espe- the strengthening of the excellent relationship between Iceland and WMO. The Secretary-General had in-depth discussions with HE Mrs Siv Fridleifsd6ttir, Minister for the Envi­ ronment, on the role and contribution of the Icelandic Meteorological Office to national socio-economic development and on regional and international coop­ eration in areas related to meteorology, hydrology and the environment. The Secretary-General also met with Mr Kristjan Thor Juliusson, Mayor of Akureyri. Prof. Obasi took the opportunity to discuss mat­ ters of mutual interest with the Permanent Represen­ tative of Iceland with WMO, Mr Magnus Jonsson, including the development of the National Meteoro­ logical Office of Iceland. He also exchanged views with Dr Patricio Bernal, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, and with delegates present at the session, Brussels, Belgium, 24 July 200 I - The Secretary-General, Prof. G. 0. P. Obasi, on the development of oceanography and marine with the President of the European Commission, Prof Romano Prodi (Photo: M.l. meteorology. Michoud) cially those related to the regional components of the WMO World Hydrological Cycle Observing System (WHYCOS), the project to prepare African countries to make use of METEOSAT Second Generation satel­ lites (PUMA), and the establishment of a Hydrologi­ cal Forecast System for the Niger Basin. They exchanged views on areas of future coop­ eration in environmental issues related to the Com­ mission's priorities and hydrometeorological moni­ toring in support of nuclear safety. Capacity building and technology transfer on a cost -sharing basis were also discussed. The Secretary-General underlined that the Kyoto Protocol had been developed on the basis of the WMO/UNEP IPCC scientific assessments and stressed The Secretory·Genera/, Prof G.O.P. Obosi, with the President of Nigeria, HE Chief the need for enhancing the capacities of National 0/usegun Obosonio, during his visit to Abuio, 30 July.J August 2001 Meteorological and Hydrological Services. He also requested EC assistance in hydrometeorological sup­ ronment in connection with a planned workshop on port to the Transport Corridor Europe-Caucasus-Asia sustainable science to be held in preparation for the (TRACECA) for safe and efficient haulage operations. World Summit on Sustainable Development. During the meeting, project proposals were sub­ Prof. Obasi had extensive discussions with Mr Y. mitted for consideration focu sing on rain enhance­ Salahu, Permanent Representative of Nigeria with 361 ment for the Mediterranean, south-east Europe and WMO, on a number of issues of mutual interest and Middle East region; prec ipitation enhancement on the development of the National Meteorological research for the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership; Agency of Nigeria. and the Integrated Monitoring and Information Sys­ Staff changes tem for the Caspian Sea Region. It was agreed that a Memorandum of Under­ Appointments standing would be signed to enhance cooperation On 25 April 2001, Ms Teruko Manabe was appointed between the EC and WMO in areas of common interest. Scientific Officer, Ocean Affairs Division, World The Secretary-General had meetings with se nior Weather Watch-Applications Department. Ms Manabe officials of the Commission to disc uss th e possibility holds a B.Sc. in Geo­ of financing regional projects under different EC physics and an M.Sc. in budgetary resources. Physical Oceanography Nigeria from the University of Tokyo, Japan. Ms Man ­ The Secretary-General visited Abuja, Nigeria, from abe began her career in 30 July to 3 August 2001. He was received by the Presi­ the Japan Meteorological dent, HE Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, and exchanged Agency as a Scientific views with him on a number of issues. He also had Officer in the Oceano­ discussions with the Min ister of Civil Aviation who is graphical Division in also the responsible Minister for Meteorology, HE Dr 1985. After a two-year Mrs Tema Chikwe, on the newly created autonomous Teruko Monobe secondment to WMO as National Meteorological Agency of Nigeria. This Junior Professional Offi- development would require close collaboration with cer (Programme Support and Coordination Division WMO in the setting-up and implementation of activ­ of the Technical Cooperation Department and then in ities of the Agency. The Secretary-General also held the Satellite Activities Office), she was promoted in discussions with HE Prof. Turner lsoun, Minister of 1993 to the post of International Affairs Officer in the Science and Technology, on the development of the Planning Division. In 1995, she was transferred as Nigerian Space Programme and on information and Senior Scientific Officer to the El Nifio Monitoring communication technology. Prof. Obasi held detailed Center, part of th e Climate Prediction Division. In discussions with senior offi cials of the two min­ 1997, she was promoted Senior Scientific Officer in istries, as well as with those of the Ministry of Envi- th e Maritime Meteorological Division. Since April 2000 she had been Deputy Head of the Office of Inter­ 1996, Mrs Toukalek national Affairs. obtained the post of On 29 April 2001, Mr Felix J.-B. Hounton was Communications Assis­ appointed Programme Manager, Technical Coopera­ tant at UNICEF's Coun­ tion Department, with special responsibility for try Office for Bosnia countries in Central and and Herzegovina. Her Western Africa. Mr most recent post, since Hounton holds a Uni­ 1999, was that of Net­ versity Technical work System Analyst at Diploma in Meteorology the World Intellectual and an Engineering Property Organization Vfadislava Toukafek Diploma in Meteorol­ in Geneva. ogy, from the Ecole On 1 July 2001, Mrs Annie Courtin was Nationale Superieure appointed Secretary in the Secretariat of the Inter­ Universitaire de Tech­ governmental Panel on Climate Change. After taking nologie of the Univer­ secretarial and com­ Felix Hounton sity of Dakar, Senegal. mercial courses in the He had worked for the Philippines and Geneva, Agency for Air Navigation Security in Africa and Mrs Courtin worked Madagascar (ASECNA) in Benin since October 1980, from 1985 to 1987 as initially as a forecaster. In 1989, he became Chief of secretary/word proces­ 362 the Principal Meteorological Centre. In November sor operator in the pri­ 1994, he became, concurrently, Chief of the National vate sector in Geneva. Meteorological Service and Chief of the Benin She was first employed ASECNA Meteorological Service. as a temporary secre­ On 1 June 2001, Mr Christophe Orsat was tary/typist with WMO in appointed Mailing Clerk in the Mailing Unit of the Annie Courtin December 1988 and Common Services Divi­ went on to work for sion, Resource Manage­ IAPSO, UNCTAD/WTO and UNAIDS/WHO between ment Department. Hav­ 1989 and 1998. She returned to WMO under a short­ ing obtained a Brevet de term contract in March 1998 in the IPCC Secretariat technicien superieur in where she remained until her appointment. commerce, Mr Orsat's On 1 July 2001, Mrs Monique Schalk was first employment was appointed Information Systems Assistant in the with WMO in June 1997 World Climate Programme Department. Mrs Schalk as messenger in the holds a diploma in computer dcience and ginance Conferences Unit during from the Ecole Pegue in the Executive Council. Geneva and has fol­ Since then he has Christophe Orsat lowed a number of worked under short- related courses. From term contracts as messenger, messenger/driver and 1982 to 1994, Mrs mailing clerk. Schalk worked for Digi­ On 1 June 2001, Mrs Vladislava Toukalek was tal Equipment at the appointed Network Specialist in the Information European Technical Systems Division, Resource Management Depart­ Centre in Ferney­ ment. Mrs Toukalek holds a B.Sc. in Electrical Engi­ Voltaire, France, first of neering from the Department of Information and all as computer opera­ , Faculty of , tor and latterly as com­ University of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. As puter system engineer. Monique Schafk of 1986, she worked on a number of information sys­ She was then an tem, computer support and research projects in instructor in the private sector from 1995 until Sarajevo and in 1994, she took a post as Professor of 1997, when she went to work for the International Informatics at the Catholic School Centre there. In Organization for Migration. She has worked for WMO under short-term contract since September Transfer 1997, providing use r support for various in-house With effect from 1 June 2001, Ms Carolyn S. Van Veen, applications and systems. Text-Processing Clerk in the Languages Division of On 1 August 2001, Mr Ibrahim El Tawabti was the Conference and Languages Services Department, appointed Proof-reader (Arabic) in the Languages was transferred to the Conferences Unit of the same Division, Conferences and Language Services Department as Conference and Meetings Clerk. Department. He has Departures worked in various organizations of the UN On 30 April 2001, Dr Udayshankar De resigned from system since 1982 in his post of Executive Assistant to the Secretary­ New York, Rome, Vienna, General. Sofia, Paris, Berne and On 30 June 2001, Mrs Denise Bouazria took early Geneva (including retirement from her post of Senior Telephone/Telex WMO) and has under­ Operator in the Common Services Division of the taken missions for the Resource Management Department. Mrs Bouazria UN to Buenos Aires, first worked for WMO in August 1966 as Telex Opera­ Libreville and Rome. Mr tor under short-term contracts, and was appointed /brahim El Tawobff El Tawabti had been fixed-term in February 1968. She obtained promo­ working in WMO under tions in January 1972,April1981 and January 1990. short-term contract since September 2000. On 1 July 2001, Dr Michael S.J. Harrison returned to the United Kingdom Meteorological Promotions Office, having served since February 1999 as Chief of 363 On 1 June 2001, Mr Willy Tanga, Programmer/Analyst the Climate Information and Prediction Services in the Finance and Budget Division, Resource Man­ Project Office in the World Climate Programme agement Department, was promoted to the post of Department. Systems Analyst/Programmer in the Information On 31 July 2001, Dr Alexandre S. Zaitsev retired Systems Division of the same Department. from his post of Assistant Secretary-General, which On 1 July 2001, Ms Katia M. Chestopalov, Human he had held since September 1992. Dr Zai tsev had Resources Officer, Human Resources Management previously worked for WMO from December 1977 to Division, Resource Management Department, was September 1985 as Director, Research and Develop­ promoted to the post of Senior Human Resources ment Programme Department. Officer in the same unit. Also retiring on 31 July 2001 was Dr John M. On 1 August 2001, Mrs Marie-Claude Mermillod, Miller. Dr Miller joined WMO in January 1992 as Sci­ Senior Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Secre­ entific Officer in the Environment Division of the tary-General, was promoted to the post of Adminis­ Research and Development Programme Department trative Assistant in the Atmospheric Research and obtaining a promotion to his most recent post, Chief Environment Programmes Department. of the Environment Division, in November of the As a result of the reclassification of their posts, same year. the following staff obtained promotions: Mr Azze­ On 31 July 2001, Mrs Silvana Veltman took early dine Abderrafi, Assembler in the Printing and Elec­ retirement from her post of Senior Accounts Clerk in tronic Publications Unit of the Publication and Dis­ the Finance and Budget Division, Resource Manage­ tribution Services Department, promoted Senior ment Department. Mrs Veltman started working for Assembler; Mr Emile Gomez, Driver/Messenger in WMO in 1966 as a bilingual typist in the Technical the Common Services Division of the Resource Division, obtained a first promotion in 1968 and Management Department; Ms Victoria Hanson, moved to the Finance and Budget Division in the Clerk in the Information and Public Information same year. Two further promotions followed in 1971 Office of the External Relations Office, promoted and 1974. Public Information Clerk; Mrs Danielle Sarreau, Also retiring on 31 August 2001 were Clerk in the Conference Unit of the Conferences and Mr Frederic Braun, Caretaker of WMO since Septem­ Language Services Department, promoted Confer­ ber 1981, and Mrs Elezaveta I. Tchernikova, Text-pro­ ence and Meetings Clerk; Mr Willy Tanga, Program­ cessing Clerk in the Languages Division of the Con­ mer/Analyst in the Finance and Budget Division of ference and Language Services Department since the Resource Management Department. September 1988. We wish Drs Za itsev and Miller, Mr Braun Department, completed 20 years of sevice on 18 and Mmes Veltman and Tchernikova a long and August 2001. hap py retirement. Mrs Helene Dufay, Information Processing Assistant, Information Systems Division, Resource Anniversaries Management Department, completed 25 yea rs of Mrs Silvana Veltman, Sen ior Accounts Clerk, Finance service on 30 August 200 l. and Budget Division, Resource Ma nagement Depart­ Mrs Maria E. Aguada Caro, Te xt-processing ment, completed 35 yea rs of service on 1 July 2001. Clerk, Language Services Division, Conference and Mrs Adora P. Landicho, Sen ior Sec retary, Language Services Department, completed 25 years Regional Office for Asia and the So uth-West Pacific, of service on 1 September 200 l. completed 20 years of service on 3 August 200 1. Mr Roger L. Newson, Director for Climate Mod­ Mrs France Langin, Accounts Clerk, Finance elling, World Climate Research Programme, com­ and Budget Divi sion, Resource Management pleted 20 yea rs of service on 1 September 200 l.

Obituary ' .;_,· ' '·-·· -~-

Jorge Ivan Valencia Franco 364 He was Permanent Representative of Colombia We were sorry to learn of the death of Jorge !van with WMO and acting president of Regional Associa­ Valencia Franco on 10 July 200 1. Jorge !van was born tion Ill (South America). He took part in numerous on 6 July 1952 in Jardin, Department of Antioquia, regional and international events, particularly the north-west of Bogota, Colombia. Tenth and Eleventh World Meteorological Con­ In 1971 Jorge !van was one of 12 young students gresses held in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1987 and from Colombia who travelled on a WMO scholarship 1991 , respectively. to Leningrad in the USSR to beg in university studies Jorge !van was for a time external adviser to the in meteorology. He remained there until 1977. He was successor body to HIMAT. He went on to wo rk for the a good student and was known for his great sense of Colombian independent environmental body Corpo­ cooperation, becoming general secretary to the raci6n Aut6noma Amb iental as an adviser, and also Colombian Students' Society of the the USSR. worked with the Colombian Society for Meteorology. On hi s return to Co lombia he worked in the Jorge !van was we ll known for his excellent Hydrometeorology Section of the Colombian Institute of administrative skills and his effective sense of public Hydrolo gy, Meteorology and Land Improvement relations. He will be missed by the international (HIMAT) at its Valle regional office. He later headed its meteorological community and his Colombian Climatology Section before becoming HIMATs Deputy friends and colleagues. Director for Hydrometeorology. G.L.V.

'i Reviews -'~

Glaciers and Environm ental Chang_e textbooks on glacier-related topics. Th erefo re, I wa s By A. Nesje and S. V Dahl. Arnold Publishers, looking for ward to critica lly rea ding this new book, London (2 000). xii + 203 pages; numerous fig­ which is co-authored by S. 0 Dahl. Despite the fact that ures. ISBN 0-340- 70634- 1 (pl b). Price: £ 18.99. glaciers and their fluctuation s have a high poten tial for ISBN 0-340-70637-6 (hlb). Price: £40. palaeoclimatic reconstructions, they are sometimes A couple of years ago I had the pleasure to study A tie overlooked as a terrestrial data source by the palaeocli­ Nesje's Brei cere, which is one of the best introduct01y matologica l community. Th eir behaviour is physica/0' well understood, which makes a climatological interpre­ tive character of the book. The treatment is largely non­ tation of past glacier extents and fluctuations compara­ mathematical. This may be seen as an advantage for tively straightforward and easy. In many cases, glacier­ readers who are not so familiar with the physical and based palaeoclimatic information can be used as a mathematical aspects of glaciology. On the other hand, benchmark for testing the reliability of other proxy data. it sometimes prevents a deeper insight into the matte1: This book should therefore fill a certain gap and should A reader who wants to get more information still has to rnake glaciers more attractive for researchers outside the refer to a standard glaciological textbook. The chapter gla cio logical!geomorphologica l community. Both on glacier dynamics, in particulm; requires a certain authors are from the University of Bergen in No rway basic knowledge of glaciological concepts to appreciate and well-known for their work on glacier and climate the contents. A slight0' more mathematical treatment fluctuations in the mountain regions of Scandinavia. wou ld significantly add to the usefulness of the book The book, which is quite short, covers a surpris­ and would certainly not deter readers from continuing. ingly large number of topics in seven well-organized For example, a more rigorous mathematical treatment main chapters. Chapter 1 sets the scene; Chapter 2 of the and energy balance of a glacier could pro­ introduces climatological theories for climate and gla­ vide the basis for a deeper understanding of the cli ­ cier va riations; and Chapter 3 is devoted to methods of matic significance of glacier fluctuations. In this con­ palaeoenviromnental reconstruction from glacier­ text, I missed the glacial-meteorological model of based records such as ice-cores and glacier-related equilibrium-line- fluctuations by Kuhn and a landforms and sediments. In Chapter 4, glacier more detailed discussion of other glacier-climate mod­ dynamics are treated rather extensively. This particular els. The statistical summer temperature-accumulation chapter is in fact an introduction to some basic princi­ model for climatic conditions at the equilibrium line ples ofglacio logy. Glacier variations during the geologi­ altitude presented in the book is exclusively based on 365 cal past are discussed in Chapter 5 on a more or less data from No rwegian glaciers and thus of only limited worldwide basis. Holocene glacier variations and, in usefulness in more continental areas. particulm; glacier fluctuations during the Little Ice Age In many aspects, the book has a distinctly Scandi­ are a main focus. Chapter 6 deals with sea-level navian touch. This adds much to its interest, because changes during the Late Quaternary, and models of access to Scandinavian topics in glacier history is nor­ future climatic change are outlined in the concluding mally limited. I particularly enjoyed the chapter on the chapte1: The reference list contains almost 600 entries, Little Ice Age in Scandinavia. On the other hand, the most of which are less than 20 years old. Finally, an treatment of other areas of the world's gla cierized index provides easy access to the contents of the book. regions is somewhat uneven, and, as far as the southern The reference list is a compilation of the modern hemisphere is concerned, the resp ective vo lume of literature in the field. Howe ve 1; non-English literature Geografiska Annaler (Sa A, vol. 81, 1999) was obvi­ and older papers are almost completely missing. This is ously published after the completion of the manuscript. sometimes not really an advantage. For example, a con ­ The European Alps, which are probably the best-known siderable amount of German literature in the field of mountain region in the world with the most detailed glacier history in the Alps and glacier-climate-relation­ reco rd of glacier fluctuations during the Late Glacial ships was published in the 1970s and 1980s. Many of and Holocene are covered quite well. It is, ho weve1; a these papers are still among the most thouroughly little surprising to find]. Grove's doubtlessly excellent researched studies in the field of glacier-related palaeo­ book (The Little Ice Age, London, 1988) the principal climatology, but remain inaccessible for the interested reference. In this case, reference to the German litera­ reade1: lvfore or less the sa me is true for relevant French ture would certain0' have been a plus. and Italian papers. Sometimes it seems that non-Eng­ The book aims at second/third year undergradu­ lish references were systematically avoided. ate and postgraduate students in th e relevant disci­ All chapters are introduced by a short summary, plines. Students with a background in glaciology and which allows the reader to check the contents and rele­ climatology are ce rtainly able to understand and vance of the chapterfor specific questions. Special topics appreciate the contents, and I consider it a good basic are treated separately in a number of boxes. All this textbook for a variety of advanced-level courses on gla­ makes the book easy to read. A large number offigures cieJ; climate and environmental histo1y. It is probably complement and illustrate the text. Most of them are also of considerable value as a source of information for redrawn from previously published papers, which is other members of the palaeoclimatological community, certainly useful for those readers who have only limited such as palaeobotanists or Quaternary palaeontolo­ access to the original papers and adds to the informa- gists, who want to obtain more profound information on the role and importance ofg laciers as sources of reli­ clearly demonstrate that there are many more diver­ able palaeoclimatic proxy data . gences in approach es to wet/and rehabilitation than Despite all this (inevitable) criticism, the overall similarities. These divergences stem from the different impression of the book is clearly positive and the attitudes to the social and economic importance of wet­ authors are to be congratulated for having undertaken lands in particular regions, diverse environmental con ­ such a fo rmidable ta sk. ditions, rate of community involvement in, and support Hanns Kerschner of, rehabilitation practices, legal aspects, etc. [email protected] Case -studies presented in the 13 papers of Section 2 describe specific wet/and rehabilitation proj­ An International Perspective on Wetland Rehabilitation ects in south, north and western Australia, New W Streever (Ed.). Kluwer Academic Publishers, Zeala nd, Thailand, Mozambique, Botswana and Dordrecht (1999 ). vii + 338 pages; numerous fig­ Kenya, Israel and Turkey, the Nethe rlands, Brazil and ures an illustrations. ISBN 0-7923-5724 -8. Price: the Canadian high Arctic. All aspects of wet/and reha­ £105/US$ 180. bilitation-scientific basis, economics, hydrology and Wetlands are areas of land where the wa ter table is at eco logy, agriculture, engin eering, education, law and or near the swface for some defined period of time, policy-are discussed in th ese papers in much more form ing a unique ecosystem with distinct physiochemi­ detail than in Section 1. The importance of planning, cal and biological processes. They are widely distrib­ education and community involvement in th e rehabili­ uted over many of the globe: at present they tation process is stressed again. It is also shown how sci­ cover approximately 4-6 per cent of the Ea rth 's land ence can be ignored or misused in wet/and rehabilita­ surface. It is estimated that more than half the world 's tion and the key role which scientific investigations play 366 wetlands have disappeared since 1900. in determining, substantiating, and assessing the effec­ As a result of a rapidly growing population, pro­ tiveness of alternative rehabilitation projects and jected climate change and subsequent sea -level rise, the efforts. problems of utiliza tion, conservation, restoration and Section 3 of the book coi7Sists of six papers. Taken rehabilitation of wetlands, both in inland and coastal to>;ether, they outline a wide range of methods and con­ areas, have became some of today's most challenging sequences of wet/and rehabilitation and concentrate on environmental and socio-economic issues. the multi-disciplinmy content of the problem, as well as This book is a unique attempt to bring together the importance of joint efforts in solving specific ta sks. relevant information on a broad spectrum of wetland Section 3, in particular, shows the many disciplines rehabilitation issues and efforts all over the world. required for successful rehabilitation. Thirty papers selected in the book are grouped The final short Section 4 "Putting rehabilitation into fou r section s, entitled, respectively: "Regio nal into perspective" is composed of two papers and overviews"; "Case studies"; "Issues in rehabilitation"; attempts to summarize information presented through­ and "Putting rehabilitation into perspective". Authors of out the book. ].B.Zedler presents a model relevant to all these papers range from private lando wners to scientists wet/and rehabilitation projects, wh ich focuses most0' on and governmen t managers. ecological issues. As noted in the introduction to the first section, The status of restoration as a science, the the term "rehabilitation" is used throughout the book as dynamics of rehab ilitation sites and a comprehensive an umbrella term that includes both "restoration" and model which combines into a single matrix or spectrum "creation", where "restoration" is the return of a system th e degree of degradation and efforts, outcomes and to some previous condition, and "creation" is the estab­ expectations, are presented in this pape1: This model lishment of a wet/and where no wetland had existed in enables ecologists to co mpare the diversity of projects the past. that have been studied to predict outcomes, thus pro­ Th e eight papers composing Section 1 present an moting the practice of rehabilitation. overview of regional information on existing TL. Crisman 's paper focuses on the rehabilitation approaches to wetland rehabilitation. Impressive exam­ of wetlands in developing countries of th e and ples from different parts of the world representing va ri­ subtropics. Objec tives for wet/and rehabilitation in ous natural, socio-economic and environmental condi­ developing countries where wetlands supply many of tions and political systems (Commonwea lth of th e the basic needs of the local population are often differ­ Northern Mariana Islands, Australia , VietNam, ent from those of developed countries. The paper con­ Philippines, Africa, Mediterran ean Basin, Central cludes that decision-making and wet/and-rehabilita­ Europe, so uth-west England and the Ca ribbea n) tion planning in developing countries should be based on sound scientific knowledge and socio- economic and The topics covered in Section A range across environmental reasoning. The importance of commu­ ENSO and the time-scales of its variability. A scientific nity involvement and th e exchange of experiences and basis for teleconnections is established, including the expertise among regional scientists and practitioners is conditions under which the seemingly unique phenom­ also stressed. enon of the Pacific Ocean is so important to climate This is an excellent book, with an excellent collec­ variability in middle and higher latitudes. By way of tion and selection of material covering the most signifi­ selected topics, including a discussion of the spread of cant aspects of wet/and rehabilitation on a worldwide vector-borne disease, the impact of climate variability scale. It demonstrates that no universal strategy or deci­ is shown to be reflected through changing weather pat­ sion which may be successfully applied to wet/and terns to hydrological va riability and rehabilitation in different natural, environmental and response. Section B has as its focus the long-term socio-economic conditions can be established. changes in ENSO. Identified teleconnection patterns Nevertheless, the book provides invaluable infor­ and physical, chemical and biological signatures of the mation for environmental scientists, managers, engi­ palaeo-record are some of the tools used to reconstruct neers, planners and decision-makers, students and the past patterns of El NiFro occurrence and modelling general public. It contributes significantly to the more studies provide a framework for the findings. thorough understanding of various aspects of the wet­ A cursory look through the contents may dissuade land rehabilitation problem, as well as to promoting the a serious climatologist who might consider that the international exchange of information and experience diversity implies a shallow treatment, and that would concerning wet/and rehabilitation. be unfortunate. The early chapters that cover the global Z. Kopaliani and regional characteristics of the impacts of ENSO [email protected] variability would certainly hold the attention and ben­ 367 efit climate researchers and those involved in the practi­ El NiFzo and the So uthern Oscillation-Multiscale cal side of seasonal prediction. Not only are the issues Va riability and Global and Regional Impa cts relevant and comprehensive0' covered but there are real H.F Diaz and V Makgraf (Eds .). Cambridge gems of wisdom to be gathered. This reviewer was par­ University Press, London (2000). xv + 496 pages; ticularly impressed with the succinct reasoning, backed numerous figures and illustrations. ISBN 0-521- by extensiw modelling and the analysis of teleconnec­ 62138-0 (hlb). Price: £55/US$ 90. tion patterns, that seasonal climate predictions in the In their introduction to this substantial volum e, the edi­ extra-tropics are inherent0' probabilistic (79-80). This tors reflect that El NiFzo, as a household word, has is a concept that many meteorologists schooled in entered into the vernaculm: This is part0' as a result of deterministic weatherforecastingfind difficult to grasp. the media taking advantage of a catchy term to get The examination of selected impacts of El Nii1o myriad messages across. It is, therefore, a surprise that events (streamflow, tropical cyclones and vector-borne nowhere is El NiFzo defined nor is the El Nii1o Southern disease) provides an important scientific platform and Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon described! This does starting point for anybody involved in developing poli­ not diminish the book as a serious scientific treatise cies and strategies where climate variability is an because it is not meant as an introductory text. How­ important issue. The discussions are particularly rele­ ever; the lack of a clear conceptual framework means vant to those working in the sectors covered, but also that the contributors take the same license as the media provide useful background to others on how complex and the El NiFio and ENSO terminologies occupy a the linkages between the climate system and the broad canvas. impacts of its variability can be. Although prediction of The very strength of the book is that each of the the timing and sca le of El NiFzo events and their contributions brings cutting-edge science to a range of impacts is at an early stage of development, there is processes in which El Nii1o has a major role, or to already an accumulated body of knowledge that can be impacts of climate variability where ENSO is relevant. applied and can add value to climate-sensitive deci­ While the chapters are organized into two sections, they sion-making. are only loosely related and do not sequentially develop The chapters that examine the history of ENSO a theme. In totality, however; the chapters cover a range occurrences from documented records and palaeo of issues that give perspective to El Nii1o as an impor­ reconstructions are as illuminating about the various tant component of the variability of the climate system, methodologies as they are about ENSO. The detailed not on0' in the tropics, but also reaching into the middle examination of the Quinn Record of El NiFio events and high latitudes. from the 16th to the 19th centuries underscores the dif- ficulty of using isolated generally narrative descriptions £21.95/US$ 34.95. ISBN 0-521-79259-2 (h!b). to attribute such occurrences. The temporal and spatial Price: £60/US$ 95. variability of impacts associated with modern El Nifio Climate Change-A Multidisciplinary Approach events that reduces the confidence of predictions simi­ By Wf, Burroughs. Cambridge University Press lar0' reduces the confidence of attribution from seem­ (2001). xv + 298 pages; numerous figures. ISBN 0- ingly EI-NiFw-like significant past weather events. 521-56771-8 (plb) . Price: £18.95/US$ 29.95. El Nii'lo is popularly identified as a climate event ISBN 0-521-56125-6 (h!b). Price: £52.50/US$ 85. with duration of little more than a year: Several contrib­ The Dynamic Sun utors point to climate anomalies on decadal and longer A. Hanslmeier, M. Messerotti and A. Veronig time-scales that have distinctly El Nii'lo characteristics, (Eds.). Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht both in the pattern ofglobal anomalies of rainfall and in (200 1). ISBN 0-7923-6915-7. Price: US$ 119. the patterns of slowly varying sea-surface temperature Synoptic and Dynamic Climatology anoma0'· Although the scientific basis for these longer­ By R. G. Bany and A.M. Carleton. Routledge, Lon­ term patterns of variability remains unclear; their social, don (2001). xv + 620 pages; numerous figures and economic and environmental importance has been diaE!·ams. ISBN 0-415-03116-8. Price: £37.50. clearly identified. Much is known about the ENSO phe­ Spatial Patterns in Catchment Hydrology: nomenon and its impacts on interannual time-scales Observations and Modelling_ but there is clearly much to be learned about variability R. Grayson and G. Bloschl (Eds.) . Cambridge Uni­ on decadal and longer time-scales. versity Press (2001). xii + 404 pages; numerous The penultimate chapte1; before the synthesis by figures and illustrations. ISBN 0-521-63316-8 the editors, provides a framework for ENSO in the con- (h!b). Price: £65/US$ 95. 368 text of climate change. In particular; the contribution New titles in the WMO Library demonstrates how the changing oceanic temperature Climatology structure in the sub-tropics and mid-latitudes can affect the occurrence of El Nifio events. The study sug­ Air-Sea Interaction :Laws and Mechanisms gests that colder conditions and a shallow equatorial By G. T Csanady. Cambridge University Press (200 1). warm layer are less conducive to El Nifio development. vii + 239 f!!!g_es; illustrations. The implication is that a warmer world with a deeper Cases in Climate Change Policy: Political Reality in the equatorial warm layer, for example as would be Europ_ean Union expected from anthropogenically induced global warm­ U. Collier and R.E. Lofstedt (Eds.). London: Earth­ ing, could see an increase in the intensity and perhaps scan Publications Ltd. (1997) . xviii + 204 pages; frequency of El Nifio events. illustrations. Overall, this book is ideal0' suited to anyone inter­ Climate Change: a Multidisciplinary Approach ested in reviewing recent developments in knowledge of By Wf, Burroughs. Cambridge University Press climate variability and the role of the El NiFw phenom­ (200 1). xv + 298 f!!!g_es; illustrations. enon. The style is easy, the topics are diverse and the Climate Chang_e and Biota of the North Atlantic discussion is sufficiently detailed and reflecting cutting­ By A. N. Smirnov and N.P. Smirnov. Saint Petersbwg: edge research to be a challenge. It should remain a ref­ Russian State Hydrometeorological University erence for many years and would add value to any pub­ (1998).149 f!!!g_es; illustrations; in Russian. lic or private library. Climate 1J·end Atlas of Europe based on Observations, William Kinin month 1891-1 990 w. kin inmonth @bigpond. com By C.D. Schonwiese and J Rapp. Dordrecht; Boston: KhiWer Academic Publishers (c1997). vii + 228 Books received for review pages; illustrations and maps. of the Southern Continents: Present, Past, and Meti11en in Wartime-Meteorology in Canada 1939-1945 Future By Morley Thomas. ECW Press, Toronto (2001). ]E. Hobbs, fA. Lindesay, and H.A. Bridgman (Eds.). 360 pages. ISBN 1-55022-448-47. Price: New York: Wiley (c 1998 ). x.x + 297 pages; illustrations. Can$ 19.95. Climates of the World Air- Sea Interaction-Laws and Mechanisms By D. Martyn. Amsterdam: Elsevier (1992). xi+ 435 By G. T Csanady. Cambridge Unive rsity Press, pages; illustrations. London (200 1). vii + 239 pages; numerous figures Dictionary ofG lobal Climate Change and equations. ISBN 0-521-79680-6 (p!b). Price: Compiled by WJ Maunder as a contribution of the Wasted: Counting th e Costs of Global Consumption Stockholm Environment Institute to the Second World By lvf. Redclift. London: Earthscan Publications Climate Conference. Ne w York: Chapman and Hall Ltd. , 1996. xiii + 173 J!!!Kes; illustrations. (1992).xxii+ 240£Eg_es. World Reso urces, 2000-2001: People and Ecosystems, Dictionary of Global Climate Change th e Fraying Web of Life Comp iled by WJ Maunder as a contribution of the Washington, DC, World Resou rces In stitute, Stockholm Environment Institute to the Second V\ fo rld (2 000). 389 pages; illustrations. Climate Conference. 2nd ed. London: UCL Press Hydrology ( 1994). xxvi + 257 £Eg_es. North Atlantic Oscillation and Climate Guidelin es for Cloud Seeding to Augment Precipitation By N. P. Smirnov, V N. Vorobyov and S. Y. Kachanov. By the Committees on Weather Modification Saint Petersburg: Russian State Hydrometeorological and Climate and Weather Change of the Irriga­ University (1998) . 119 pages; illustrations; in Russian. tion and Drainage Division, American Society Paesaggi d'inverno: Aspetti naturalistici e climatologici delle of Civil Engineers (ASCE); A.M. Kahan et al. nevicate sui/a cam£_ania interna (Eds.). Ne w York, N. Y.: Th e Soc iety ( c 1995 ). By N. Diodato. [5.1.]: Edizioni la Provincia Sannita, xviii + 145 P!!Kes; illustrations. 1980. 79 pages; illustrations. Hill Irriga tion: Wate r and Fevelopment in Mo untain Sg_riculture Environmental studies By Linden Vincent. London: Overseas Develop­ Acid Rain in Europe: Counting the Cost ment In stitute (1995). xii + 220 J!!!Kes. H. ApSimon, D. Pearce and E. Ozdemiroglu (Eds.). Mozambique and the Great Flood of 2000 London: Earthscan (1997). xii + 190 £Eg_es. By F Christie and]. Hanlon. Bloomington: 369 CENAS: Coastline Evolution of the Upper Adriatic Sea In diana University Press (2001). xvi + 176 due to Rise and Natural and Anthropogenic J!!!Kes; illustrations. Land Subsidence Sustainable Mountain Ag_riculture G. Gambolati. (Ed.). Dordrecht; Boston: Kluwer Aca­ N.S. ]odha, M. Banskota and Tej Partap (Eds.). demic J>ub. (c 1998). xiii + 344 pages; illustrations and New Delhi: Oxford and IBH Pub. Co. (c1992). ma£_s (some col.). Two volumes; illustrations. Currents of Change: Impacts of El Ni fio and La Niiia on Marine meteorology Climate and SocieiJ:'. By Michael H. Glantz. 2nd ed. Cambridge University The Earth's Plasmas£_h ere Press, (200 1). xiii + 252 pages; illustrations and maps. By ].F Lemaire and K. I. Gringauz, with contri­ GeoEN\1 II: Geostatistics for Environmental Applications: butions from D.L. Carpenter and V Bassolo. Proceedings of the Second European Conference on Ca mbridge, UK; Ne w York: Cambridge Univer­ Geostatistics for Environmental Applications held in sity Press (1998). xxii + 350 pages; illustrations. Valencia, S£_ain, November 18-20, 1998 Remote Sensing Calibration Systems: an Introduction J G6mez-Herndndez, A. Soares and R. Froidevaux By H.S. Chen. Hampton, VA: A. Deepak (1997). (Eds.). Dordrecht; Boston: Kluwer Academic Publish­ xiii + 238 J!!!KeS. ers (c1999). xvii + 562 pages; illustrations and maps. Seasonal and Multiyear Sea-level Fluctuations in the The Mount Pinatubo Eruption: Effects on the Atmosphere Arctic Ocean and Climate By VN. Vorobyov, S. Y. Kochanov and N. P. G. Fiocco, D. Fud and G. Visconti (Eds.). Berlin; New Smirnov. Saint Petersburg: Ru ss ian State York Springer (c1996). viii + 310 pages; illustrations Hydrometorological University, 2000. 11 3 pages; (some col.) and ma£_s (some col.). illustrations; in Russian. The Terrestrial Biosphere and Global Change: Implications General works for Na tural and Managed Ecosystems B. Walker [et al.] (Eds.). Cambridge Un iversity Press Glossary of Meteorology (c1999). xii + 439 pages; illustrations (some col.) and TS. Glickmann (Ed.) . 2nd ed. Boston: Ameri­ ma£_s (some col.). can Meteorological Society (2000). xii + 855 Urban Ilm1s£_ort and the Environment II aees. ]. M. Baldasa no Recio and L.]. Sucharov (Eds.). Metmen in Wartime: Meteorologx in Canada Southampton: Computational Mechanics Publica­ By Morley Thomas. Toronto: ECW Press tions (1996). 602 pages. (2001). 360 pages. CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS

Date Title Place

2001

5-9 November Workshop on Reanalyses ECMWF, Reading, United Kingdom 6-9 November Regional Sem inar on Cost Recovery and Administration Nanning, China in RA 11 (Asia) 10-11 November RA 11 Advisory Working Group Nanning, China 12-14 November GEWEX Radiation Panel-twelfth session Fort Collins, , USA 1 2-16 November Seminar on ATS/ MET Coordination and Volcanic Ash Bogota, Colombia 18-22 November International Workshop on Operational Marine Forecasting Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada 20 November Climate Services for the Twenty-first Century Geneva 20-23 November Expert Meeting on Flood Management Kathmandu, Nepal 20-28 November Panel of External Auditors of the United Nations, Specialized Geneva Agencies and the International Atomic Energy Agency 370 21-30 November Commission for Climatology-thirteenth session Geneva 26-30 November CBS Task Team on Regulatory Material Geneva 28 November- ESCAP / WMO Typhoon Committee -thirty-fourth session Honolulu, Hawaii, 4 December USA 3-7 December OPAG/PWS Expert Team on Product Development and Service Honolulu, Hawaii, Assessment USA 4-7 December SPARC Sc ientific Steering Group-ninth session Honolulu, Hawaii, USA 5-8 December Third International Symposium on Environmental Hydraulics Tempe, Arizona, USA 2002

13-17 January American Meteorological Society-82nd Annual Meeting Orlando, Florida, and Exhibition USA 21-23 January Third International Symposium on Non-C02 Greenhouse Maastricht, The Netherlands 12-21 February Commission for Atmospheric Sciences-thirteenth session Oslo, Norway 3-10 April RA IV Hurricane Committee-twenty-fourth session Orlando, Florida, USA 7-10 May Sixth International Winds Workshop Madison, Wisconsin, USA 27-30 May RA VI GAW Workshop Riga, Latvia 11-21 June Executive Council-fifty-fourth session Geneva 2-6 September International Conference on Quantitative Precipitation Reading, United Forecasting Kingdom 25 September (a.m .) Technical Conference on Meteorological and Environmental Bratislava, Instruments and Methods of Observation (TEC0-2002) Slovakia 25 September (p.m.)- Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation- Bratislava, 3 October thirteenth session Slovakia 7-9 October International Workshop on Reducing Vulnerability of Agriculture Ljubljana, Slovenia and Forestry to Climate Variability and Climate Change 10-1 8 October Commission for Agricultural Meteorology-thirteenth session Ljubljana, Slovenia MEMBERS OF THE WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION*

STATES ( 179)

Afghanistan Denmark Lithuania Sierra Leone Albania Dj ibouti Luxembourg Singapore Algeria Dominica Madagascar Slovokio Angola Dominican Republic Malawi Slovenio Antigua and Borbudo Ecuador Malaysia Solomon Islands Argentina Egypt Moldives Somalia Armenia El Salvador Mali South Africa Australia Eritreo Malta Spain Austria Estonia Mauritania Sri Lanka Azerboijon Ethiopia Mauritius Sudan Bahamas Fiji Mexico Surinome Bahrain Finland Micronesia, Federated Swozilond Bangladesh France States of Sweden Barbados Gabon Monaco Switzerland Belarus Gambia Mongolia Syrian Arab Republic Belgium Georgia Morocco Tojikiston Belize Germany Mozambique Thailand Ben in Ghana Myonmar The former Yugoslav Bolivia Greece Namibia Republic of Macedonia Bosnio and Herzegovino Guatemala Nepal Toga 371 Botswana Guinea Netherlands Tango Brazil Guineo-Bissou New Zealand Trinidad and Tobago Brunei Dorussolom Guyana Nicaragua Tunisia Bulgaria Haiti Niger Turkey Burkino Foso Honduras Nigeria Turkmeniston Burundi Hungary Niue Uganda Cambodia Iceland Norway Ukraine Comeroon India Oman United Arab Emirates Canada Indonesia Pakistan Un ited Kingdom of Great Cope Verde Iron, Islamic Republic of Panama Britain and Northern Central African Republ ic Iraq Popuo New Guinea Ireland Chad Ireland Paraguay Un ited Republic of Chile Israel Peru Tanzania China Italy Philippines United States of America Colombia Jamaica Poland Uruguay Comoros Japan Portugal Uzbekiston Congo Jordan Qotor Vonuotu Cook Islands Kozokhston Republic of Korea Venezuela Costa Rico Kenya Republic of Moldovo Viet Nom Cote d'lvoire Kuwait Romania Yemen Crootio Kyrgyzston Russian Federation Yugoslavia Cuba Loo People's Democratic Rwondo Zambia Cyprus Republic Saint Lucio Zimbabwe Czech Republic Lotvio Samoa Democratic People's Lebanon Soo Tome and Principe Republic of Korea Lesotho Saudi Arabia Democratic Republic of Liberia Senegal the Congo Libyan Arab Jomohiriyo Seychelles

TERRITORIES (6)

British Caribbean Territories Hong Kong, China Netherlands Antilles and Aruba French Polynesia Macao, China New Caledonia

* As of 31 August 2001 WY!lWJ!}) mooaa~1111oo = W!®aoorm~ ~® (~®® 11)

Index

Feature articles News and Notes Announcements (conferences, exhibitions, courses, etc.) Benefits of meteorology and climatology for companies and A Changing Atmosphere ...... 179 communities ...... 224 International Association of Meteorology and Atmospheric Biometeorology-looking at the links between weather, climate and Sciences-Eighth Assembly ...... 180 health ...... 136 International Conference on Quantitative Precipitation Forecasting . 85 Cost accounting in meteorology: a pressing need? 131 International Weather Festiva l ...... 358 Costs and benefits of weather and climate services 16 International Workshop on Operational Ma rine Forecasting 181 Economic framework for the provision of meteorological services 206 Ocean Sciences at the of a New Millennium 179 E-met services in Singapore ...... 321 Statistics in Agricultural Climatology Workshop 180 February 2000 floods in South Africa: characteristics and reservoir Third International Symposium on Non-C0 Greenhouse Gases 179 operation at selected sites ...... 18 2 Forecast quality, forecast applications and forecast value: cases Items ofgeneral illterest from southern African seasonal forecasts 228 Canadian weather volunteers rewarded 179 Global climate system in 2000, The 201 Erich SUssenberger celebrates his 90th birthday 180 Globa l crop production review, 2000 300 International geophysical calendar 2001 83 Human and economic impacts of weather events in 2000 284 Patterson Distinguished Service Medal 359 Impact of the Internet and other information technology Royal Meteorological Society-150 years 178 advances on climate research ...... 316 United Kingdom qualifications in meteorology 260 Impacts of weather events: standardized reporting? 236 WM0-50 exhibition at UN Headquarters 83 372 Information system requirements of the World Climate WMO Professor Mariolopoulos Fund Award 261 Programme 143 Information systems for water-resources management 14 Publications and data Integration of satellite and in situ measurements of ozone 46 Climatological data for the Indian Ocean 83 International response to anthropogenic climate change, The 107 New environmental journal 359 Internet applications in the Kenya Meteorological Department 311 Survey on the information divide in meteorology, climate Major challenges in the Instruments and Methods of Observation and related sciences ...... 358 Programme ...... 27 Meteorology and the United Nations Convention to Combat News from the Secretariat Desertification ...... Ill Anniversaries ...... 91,187,266,364 Lothar and Martin ...... 54 Secretary-General's visits 85, 181 ,261,359 Role of NMHSs in early warning system, The 30 Staff changes ...... 89,184,264,361 Socio-economic impacts of natural di sasters ...... 35 St ratospheric ozone and its impact on climate change 41 Systems approach to weather forecasting and the impact of Obituaries meteorological products on society, A 232 Sung-Euii Moon 187 Virtual Laboratory for Education and Training in Satellite Matters .. 24 1 Valencia Franco, jorge !van 364 Water us e and demand-a challenge to monitor ...... 25 Weather on the Web ...... 306 Reports of special meetings Web-based training in meteorology: past and future 313 Comm ission for Basic Systems -twelfth sess ion !54 Women in the service of meteorology and operational Commission for Hydrology-eleve nth session ...... 152 hydrology ...... 59,150 Executive Council-fifty third sess ion ...... 326 World Meteorological Day and World Water Day 200 I 324 Regional Association II-twelfth session ...... 61 World weather on the Web ...... 303 Regional Association IV-thirteenth session ...... 335 Third Technical Conference on Management of Meteorological and Hydro- Interviews, The Bulletin logical Services in Regional Association V (South-West Pacific) ...... 337

Hickman, John S. 192 Reviews jurcec, Dr Vesna ...... 99 Andrews, D.G. - An lntrodnction to ...... 269 Thomas, Morley K. 277 Beniston, M.- Environmental Change in Mountaius and Uplands . 94 Solomon, Susan Diaz , H.F. and V. Makgraf (Eds.) - El Niiio and the Southern Oscillation - Multiscale Var iabili ty and Global and In the Regions Regional Impacts ...... 367 Climate Outlook Forum for South-east So uth Amer ica 82 Govindaraju, R.S . and A. Ramachandra Rao (Eds.) - Artificial Climatological Atlas for Asian Summer Monsoon 357 Neural Networks in Hydrology ...... 270 Conference of Commonwealth Meteorologists ...... 357 jepma, C). and W. van der Gaast (Eds.)- On the Compatibility of Madagascar's National Meteorological and Hydrological Service Flexible ln strume11ts 269 reaches a century ...... 260 Kolsky, P.- Storm Drainage-An engineering guide to the low-cost Russian-Belarussian scientific conference ...... 259 evaluation of system performance ...... 91 Uzbek Hydrometeorological Service: 80 years 356 Kulshrestha, S.M,- Be Weatherwise 188 Mannion, A.M. - Nat ural Environmental Clumge 27 1 Traini ng Course on methodololgies for the preparati on of agro­ Nesje, A. and S.V. Dahl - Glaciers and Environmental Cha~~ge 364 meteorological data and their integration in ea rly warning Pfi ster, C., R. Brazdil and R. Glaser (Eds.) -Climatic Va riability in systems for the ar id regions .. 348 Sixteenth-century Europe and its Social Dimension 267 Stehr, N. and H. vo n Storck - Eduard Briickner: Th e Sources a~~ d Marin e Meteorology Programme Consequences of Climate Ch a~~ge and Climate Variability in Automated Shipboard Aerological Programme 171 Historical Times ...... 188 Baltic Sea Ice Meeting 173 Strangeways, I.- Measuring the Na tural E1wironment ...... 92 Ocean data buoys ...... 171 Streever, W. (Ed.)- An international Perspective on We t/and PMO Workshop for Africa 173 Rehabilitation ...... 366 VOS Climate Project ...... 173 Ye h, Gou r-Tsyh - Computational Subsurface Hydrology­ Flows 92 Public Wea th er Services Programme Expert Tea m on Medi a Iss ues ...... 346 Workshop on Public Weather Se rvices for Participants from WMO .programme news RA I and RA V Small Island Deve loping States in th e So uthern Hem isphere 74 Applications of Meteorology Programme RA I Public Weath er Services Se mi nar 165

Aeronautical Meteorology Programme Atmospheric Environment and Research Programme CAeM Working Group on Training, th e Environment and new Advisory Wo rking Group for CAS 345 Developments (TREND) ...... 170 Cos t recovery se mi na r ...... 170 and weather modification Se minar on the Application of Nu merical Weather Prediction Physics and chemi stry of clo uds and weath er modi fi cation Products to Av iatio n 170 research ...... IM United Kingdom/WMO av iati on seminar 169 WA FS semin ar ...... 170 Tropical Meteorology Research . ~6

Agricultural Meteorology Programme Global Atmosphere Watch IN 373 Advisory Worki ng Group of the Commission for Ag ricultural GAW 2001 Workshop and EC Panel on Environmental Pollution Meteorology ...... 34 7 and Atmospheric Chemi stry ~5 Baker Endowment Advisory Council ...... 347 Global At mosphere Watch ...... I~ CAgM reports ...... 254 Installation of Dobson spec trophotometer in Arm enia ~3 CAgM Wo rking Group on Communication of Wo rkshop on Understanding Ozone Trends ...... ~3 Agrometeorological Information 167 CLI MAG Task Fo rce, Meeting of the ...... 348 World Weath er Research Programme 181 Committee on Wo rld Food Security ...... 348 Science Stee ri ng Committ ee fo r th e WWR P n Conference of Parties to the United Nations Convention to Sydney 2000 Forecast Demonstration Project IM Combat Desertification-fo urth session ...... 168 WMO/GAW GURM E Ai r Qualit y Forecasting Wo rkshop n Expert Group Mee ting on Early Warn ing Systems fo r Drought Preparedness and Drought Ma nagement ...... 76 Education and Training Programme Expert Group Meeting on Softwa re for Agroclimatic Data Brief his torical rev iew of th e Regional Meteorological Training Man agement ...... 166 Ce ntre in Bu enos Aires, Arge nt ina ...... 77 Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Chin a St udy Tour ...... 354 Development ...... 253 Coordinati ng Com mittee of the Standing Conference of Heads of International Workshop on Carbon Sequestrati on, Sustainable Training Institutions from Natio nal Wea th er Se rvices ...... 79 Agricultu re and Poverty Alleviation ...... 75 Expert Meeting on Curricula Related to th e Meth odology of International Conference on Forecasting Monsoons from Days Assess ing Economic Effi ciency of Meteorologica l Products and to Years ...... 347 Serv ices 176 International Workshop on Dryland Land Degradation Fort hco ming tra ining eve nts ... . 81, 176,353 Assessment Initiative ...... 168 Publica tions 176,256 Intersessional meeting of the ad hoc Working Group of Recent training events ...... 80,353 theUNCCD ...... 348 Uruguay's first university graduate in meteo rology ...... 80 Meeting of the CAgM Working Group on Impacts of Agrometeorological Applications for Sustainable Manage ment Hydrology and Water Resources Programme of Farming Systems, Forestry and Livestock ...... 76 Arai-HYCOS-helping to save the Sea 77 Publications ...... 77, 169 Associated Programme on Flood Management-global RA VI Working Group on Agricultural Meteorology ...... 253 coordination ...... 350 Roving Semi nar on Data Management for Applications Ava ilability of hydrological data 349 to Agriculture ...... 72 Coordination of WYCOS ac tivit ies 350 Rov ing Seminar on the Application of Climatic Data for Drought Countries in the Hindu-Kush Himalayan region agree on a Prepa redness and Ma nage ment of Sustainable Agriculture 348 concept for cooperation in fl ood information exchange 35 1 Scientific Advisory Committee of the Africa n Centre of From data to pro duct generation in global hydrology: GRCD Meteorological Applications for Development ...... 253 sets new targets ...... 352 Side event at the thirteenth session of the Subsidiary Body for Global Terres trial Network-Hyd rology 352 Scientific and Technological Advice of the United Nations Groundwater Resources Assessment Framework Conve ntion on Cli mate Change .... 77 achieves pr iority recognition 78 Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Inter- agency cooperation 350 Advice of th e Conve ntion on Bi ological Dive rsity ...... 254 Intern ational Conference on Freshwater 255 New World Assessment Programme of the UN system, The 255 Next generation client/server Climate Data Management Systems Regional activities ...... 176 for the CLICOM project ...... 252 Regional cooperation in the Hindu Kush Himalaya ...... 79 RA I Regional Training Seminar on Climate Data Management UNS IA water cluster: priorities and strategies for water focusing on Appli cations for Drought Preparedness 161 in Africa 77 RA I Regional Training Seminar on Drought Preparedness 343 WHYCOS update 176 Workshops ...... 251 WMO and the Nile Basin Initiative 353 Workshop on Promoting Best Practices for Conservation, World Weather Watch Management and Sustainable Use of Water Resources in the South 175 Basic Systems World Climate Programme-Water .... 174 Working Gro up on Planning and Implementation of the World Weat her Watch in RA I (Africa) 247 Technical Cooperation Programme Brazil, project initi at ive in 355 Data management Fourth Regional Cl im ate Outlook Forum for Southern Africa 177 Data quantity monitoring ·---.. - M Libyan Arab )amahiriya 257 Future WMO Information Systems - M Mal i 81 Mexico, Water Resources Management Project in ...... 355 Global Data-processing Sys tem Prediction and Mitigation of Socio-economic Impacts of El Niiio/ Workshop on Use of Ensemble Prediction Systems ...... 57 Southern Oscillation in Latin America and the Caribbean 83,354 Meeting of Expert Team on Data Representation and Codes 339 Sahel ...... 81 Meeting of Expert Team on Migration to Table Driven Code Forms 340 Seventh Climate Outlook Forum for the Greater Horn of Africa ...... 258 SIDS-Caribbean Project ...... 178, 355 Global Observing System Sixth Climate Outlook Forum for the Greater Horn of Africa 82 Coordinating Gro up fo r COSNA ...... 63 SATCC Sub-sectorial Committee Meet ing on Meteorology. Third ...... 356 Support to the Implementation of the Regional Haze Action Plan of Instruments and Methods of Observation Programme ASEAN Member Countries ...... 258 Expert Meeting on Rainfall Intensity Measurement 248 374 Visit of WMO directors to Bras ilia ...... 81 Fifteenth Professor Dr Vilho Vaisala Award 248 TECO and METEOREX 67 World Climate Programme ...... 80 WMO intercomparisons ...... 65 Exec utive Counc il Adviso ry Group on Climate and Environment 343 WMO intercomparison of GPS Radiosondes 34 1 Southern Africa Workshop on Regional Modelling ...... 69 Satellite activities Global Climate Observing System Regional training seminar on the use of environmental satellite Global Climate Observing System 162 data in meteorological applications 157 Global Hydrological Observing Network for Climate 70 Coordination Group for Meteorological Satellites 340

World Climate Applica tions and Services Programme Tropical Cyclone Programme CLICOM and Data Rescue Projects 69 ESCAP/WMO Typhoon Committee 159 Climate Information and Prediction Services (C LIPS) 69, 161,251 RA IV Hurricane Committee ...... 249 Cl imate Services for th e 21st Century 160 RA V Tropical Cyclone Committee for the South Pacific and So uth-East Guide to Climatological Practices ...... 160 Indian Ocean ...... 67 Human-Biometeorology Symposium ...... 69 Regional Technical Conference on Tropical Cyclones and Showcase Projects on Climate and Health: Shanghai 68 Storm Surges ...... !59 Southern Hemisphere Training Cou rse on Tropical Cyclones ...... 158 World Climate Data and Monitoring Programme WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones ...... 248 Climatological database management system training in the WMO provides quick access to tropical cyclone advisories Czech Republic ...... 69 worldwide ...... 342 Cl imatological database management system training in the Workshop on Hurricane Forecasting and Warning, including Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 344 topics related to Public Weather Services 250

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ACCAD Advisory Committee on Cli mate Applications and Data IGOSS Integrated Global Ocean Services System (IOC/WMO) (CCI) IGU International Geographical Un ion (ICSU) ACMAD African Centre of Meteorological Applications for !HP International Hydrological Programme (UNESCO) Development IIASA International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis AGRHYMET Agrometeorology and operational hydrology and their IMO International Maritime Organi zation applications IMO International Meteorological Organization (predeces~or AREP Atmospheric Resea rch and Environment Programme ofWMO) (WMO) IOC Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission BA PMoN Background Air Pollution Monitoring Network (WMO) (UNESCO) CAeM Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology (WMO) IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change CA gM Commission for Agricultural Meteorology (WMO) (WMO/UNEP) CAL Computer-aided learning ISO International Organization for Standardization CAS Commission for Atmospheric Sciences (WMO) !TU International Telecommunication Union CBS Commission for Basic Systems (WMO) IUGG International Un ion of Geodesy and Geophysics (ICSU) ccco Committee on Climate Changes and the Ocean jCOMM joint Technical Commission for Oceanography and (SCOR/IOC) Marine Meteorology (WMO/IOC) CCD Conve ntion to Combat Desertification jSC joint Scientific Committee for the WCRP (WMO/ICSU) CCI Commission for Climatology (WMO) MOD Meteorological data distribution (Meteosat) CCWCP Coordinating Committee for the World Climate NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration (USA) Programme NIS Newly Independent States CHy Commission for Hydrology (WMO) NMC National Meteorological Centre (WWW) CILSS Permanent Inter-State Committee for Drought Control NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in the Sahel (USA) CIMO Commission for Instruments and Methods of NWP Numerical weather prediction Observation (WMO) OHP Operational Hydrology Programme (WMO) CLICOM Climate computing (WMO) RMC Regional Meteorological Centre (WWW) CMM Commission for Marine Meteorology (WMO) RMTC Regional Meteorological Training Centre (WMO) COARE Coupled Ocean-Atmosphere Response Experiment RSMC Regional Speciali zed Meteorological Centre (WWW) COS PAR Committee for Space Research (ICSU) RTH Regional Telecommunication Hub (WWW) CSD Commission on Sustainable Development SADC Southern African Development Community DCP Data-collection platform SCAR Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (ICSU) DCS Data-collection system SCOPE Sc ientific Committee on Problems of the Environment DRS DCP retransmission system (ICSU) ECMWF European Centre for Medi um Range Weather Forecasts SCOR Scientific Committee on Oceanic Research (ICSU) ENSO EL Niiio/Southern Oscillation SCOSTEP Scientific Committee on Solar-Terrestrial Physics ESA European Space Age n ~y (ICSU) ESCAP Economic and Social Commission fo r Asia and the SPARC Stratospheric Processes and their Role in Clin1ate Pacific (UN) (WCRP) ETR Education and Training (WMO) STEND System for Technology Exchange for Natural Disasters FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (WMO) FCCC Framework Convention on Climate Change (UN) TCP Tropical Cyclone Programme (WMO) GAW Global Atmosphere Watch (WMO) TOGA Tropical Ocean-Global Atmosphere programme GCIP GEWEX Continental-scale International Project (WCRP) (WCRP) GCOS Global Climate Observing System TRUCE Tropical Urban.Climate Experiment (WMO/IOC/ICSU/UNEP) UNCED United Nations Conference on Environment and GDPS Global Data-processing System (WWW/WMO) Development (Brazil, 1992) GEF Global Environment Facility UNDP Un ited Nations Development Programme GEWEX Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment (WCRP) UNEP Un ited Nations Environment Programme GOOS Global Ocean Observing System (IOC/WMO/ UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultu ral ICSU/UNEP) Organization GOS Global Observing System (WWW/WMO) VCP Voluntary Cooperation Programme (WMO) GTS Global Telecommunication System (WWW/WMO) WAFS World Area Forecast System HOMS Hydrological Operational Multipurpose System (WMO) WCASP World Climate Applications and Services Programme HWR Hydrology and Water Resources (WMO) (WMO) !AEA International Atomic Energy Agency WCDMP World Climate Data and Monitoring Programme IAHS International Association of Hydrological Sciences (WMO) (JUG G) WCIRP World Cli mate Impact Assess ment and Response lAMAS International Association of Meteorology and Strategies Programme (WMO) Atmospheric Sciences (IUGG) WCP World Climate Programme (WMO) IAPSO International Association for the Physical Sciences of the WCRP World Climate Research Programme (WMO/ICSU) Ocean (IUGG) WFC World Food Council (UN) lATA International Air Transport Association WHO World Health Organization ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization WHYCOS World Hydrological Cycle Observing System ICSU International Council for Science WMC World Meteorological Centre (WWW) ID NOR International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction (UN) WOCE World Ocean Circulation Experiment (WCRP) !FAD II'Iternational Fund for Agricultural Development (UN) WTO Worl d Tourism Organization IGBP International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme (ICSU) www World Weather Watch (WMO)