Adelaide 9–16 May Regional Association V 2006 (South-West Pacifi c) Abridged fi nal
RA V — English report with resolutions Fourteenth session 2006
WMO-No. 1005 WMO-No. 1005 REPORTS OF RECENT WMO CONSTITUENT BODY SESSIONS
Congress and Executive Council 929 — Executive Council, fi fty-third session, Geneva, 5–15 June 2001 932 — Thirteenth World Meteorological Congress, Proceedings, Geneva, 4–26 May 1999 945 — Executive Council, fi fty-fourth session, Geneva, 11–21 June 2002 960 — Fourteenth World Meteorological Congress, Geneva, 5–24 May 2003 961 — Executive Council, fi fty-fi fth session, Geneva, 26–28 May 2003 972 — Fourteenth World Meteorological Congress, Proceedings, Geneva, 5–24 May 2003 977 — Executive Council, fi fty-sixth session, Geneva, 8–18 June 2004 988 — Executive Council, fi fty-seventh session, Geneva, 21 June–1 July 2005
Regional associations 934 — Regional Association III (South America), thirteenth session, Quito, 19–26 September 2001 944 — Regional Association V (South-West Pacifi c), thirteenth session, Manila, 21–28 May 2002 954 — Regional Association I (Africa), thirteenth session, Mbabane, 20–28 November 2002 981 — Regional Association II (Asia), thirteenth session, Hong Kong, China, 7–15 December 2004 987 — Regional Association IV (North America, Central America and the Caribbean), fourteenth session, San José, 5–15 April 2005 991 — Regional Association VI (Europe), fourteenth session, Heidelberg, 7–15 September 2005
Technical commissions 947 — Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation, thirteenth session, Bratislava, 25 September–3 October 2002 951 — Commission for Agricultural Meteorology, thirteenth session, Ljubljana, 10–18 October 2002 953 — Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology, twelfth session, Montreal, 16–20 September 2002 955 — Commission for Basic Systems, extraordinary session, Cairns, 4–12 December 2002 979 — Commission for Hydrology, twelfth session, Geneva, 20–29 October 2004 985 — Commission for Basic Systems, thirteenth session, St Petersburg, 23 February–3 March 2005 995 — Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology, second session, Halifax, 19–27 September 2005 996 — Commission for Climatology, fourteenth session, Beijing, 3–10 November 2005 1002 — Commission for Atmospheric Sciences, fourteenth session, Cape Town, 16–24 February 2006
In accordance with the decision of Thirteenth Congress, the reports are published in the following languages:
Congress — Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish Executive Council — Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish Regional Association I — Arabic, English, French Regional Association II — Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian Regional Association III — English, Spanish Regional Association IV — English, Spanish Regional Association V — English, French Regional Association VI — Arabic, English, French, Russian Technical commissions — Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish
WMO issues authoritative publications on scientifi c and technical aspects of meteorology, hydrology and related subjects. These include manuals, guides, training materials, public information and the WMO Bulletin. Regional Association V (South-West Pacifi c)
Fourteenth session
Adelaide 9–16 May 2006
Abridged fi nal report with resolutions
WMO-No. 1005 © 2007, World Meteorological Organization, Geneva
ISBN 92-63-11005-0
NOTE The designations employed and the presentation of material in this publication do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of the World Meteorological Organization concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. CONTENTS
Page GENERAL SUMMARY OF THE WORK OF THE SESSION
1. OPENING OF THE SESSION (XIV-RA V/PINK 1 AND 2) ...... 1
2. ORGANIZATION OF THE SESSION (XIV-RA V/PINK 1 AND 2) ...... 2 2.1 Consideration of the report on credentials ...... 2 2.2 Adoption of the agenda (XIV-RA V/Doc. 2.2) ...... 2 2.3 Establishment of committees ...... 2 2.4 Other organizational matters ...... 2
3. REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE ASSOCIATION (XIV-RA V/DOC. 3; PINK 3) ...... 2
4. WORLD WEATHER WATCH PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS ...... 2 4.1 WWW Planning and Implementation Programme, including the report of the chairperson of the Working Group on Planning and Implementation of the WWW in Region V (XIV-RA V/Doc. 4.1(1); PINK 4.1(1)) ...... 2 4.2 Integrated Observing System, including the Instruments and Methods of Observation Programme (XIV-RA V/Doc. 4.2(1); 4.2(2); PINK 4.2(1), REV. 1) ...... 3 4.3 Information Systems and Services, including telecommunications, data management and the Operational Information Service (XIV-RA V/Doc. 4.3(1); PINK 4.3(1)) ...... 5 4.4 Data-processing and Forecasting System (XIV-RA V/Doc. 4.4(1); PINK 4.4(1)) ...... 7 4.5 Tropical Cyclone Programme (XIV-RA V/Doc. 4.5; APP_WP 4.5) ...... 9
5. WORLD CLIMATE PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS ...... 9 5.1 Climate Programme Coordination and Support Activities, including the report of the chairperson of the Working Group on Climate-related Matters (XIV-RA V/Doc. 5.1; APP_WP 5.1) ...... 9 5.2 World Climate Data and Monitoring Programme (XIV-RA V/Doc. 5.2; PINK 5.2) ...... 11 5.3 World Climate Applications and Services Programme, including Climate Information and Prediction Services in Region V (XIV-RA V/Doc. 5.3; PINK 5.3) ...... 14 5.4 Global Climate Observing System (XIV-RA V/Doc. 5.4; PINK 5.4) ...... 15 5.5 World Climate Research Programme (XIV-RA V/Doc. 5.5; PINK 5.5) ...... 16
6. ATMOSPHERIC RESEARCH AND ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS (XIV-RA V/DOC. 6; PINK 6) .. 16 6.1 Global Atmosphere Watch, including support to ozone and other environment-oriented conventions (XIV-RA V/Doc. 6; 6.1(1); 6.1(2); PINK 6) ...... 17 6.2 World Weather Research Programme, including THORPEX (XIV-RA V/Doc. 6; PINK 6) ...... 18 6.3 Tropical Meteorology Research Programme (XIV-RA V/Doc. 6; PINK 6) ...... 19 6.4 Programme on Physics and Chemistry of Clouds and Weather Modifi cation Research (XIV-RA V/Doc. 6; PINK 6) ...... 19
7. APPLICATIONS OF METEOROLOGY PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS ...... 19 7.1 Public Weather Services Programme (XIV-RA V/Doc. 7.1; APP_Doc. 7.1) ...... 19 7.2 Agricultural Meteorology Programme, including the report of the chairperson of the Working Group on Agricultural Meteorology (XIV-RA V/Doc. 7.2(1); 7.2(2); PINK 7.2(1)) ...... 21 7.3 Aeronautical Meteorology Programme (XIV-RA V/Doc. 7.3(1); 7.3(2); APP_WP 7.3) ...... 22 7.4 Marine Meteorology and Oceanography Programme (XIV-RA V/Doc. 7.4(1); 7.4(1), REV.1; APP_WP 7.4) ...... 24
8. HYDROLOGY AND WATER RESOURCES PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS (XIV-RA V/Doc. 8(1); Doc. 8(2); APP_WP 8) ...... 26 IV ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
Page
9. EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS (XIV-RA V/Doc. 9(1); 9(2); APP_WP 9) ...... 29
10. TECHNICAL COOPERATION PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS (XIV-RA V/Doc. 10; PINK 10) ...... 31
11. NATURAL DISASTER PREVENTION AND MITIGATION PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS (XIV-RA V/Doc. 11; APP_WP 11) ...... 33
12. WMO SPACE PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS (XIV-RA V/Doc. 12; APP_Doc. 12) ...... 36
13. INFORMATION AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS (XIV-RA V/Doc. 13; APP_Doc. 13) ...... 36
14. LONG-TERM PLANNING — REGIONAL ASPECTS (XIV-RA V/DOC. 14; APP_WP 14) ...... 38
15. EMERGING ISSUES AND SPECIFIC CHALLENGES ...... 39 15.1 Brainstorming with emphasis on special concerns of the Region (XIV-RA V/Doc. 15.1; PINK 15.1) ...... 39 15.2 Follow-up on multilateral development agreements (XIV-RA V/Doc. 15.2; APP_Doc. 15.2) ...... 40 15.3 Evaluation of socio-economic benefi ts (XIV-RA V/Doc. 15.3; PINK 15.3) ...... 40 15.4 Evolution of WMO and NMHSs — Regional aspects (XIV-RA V/Doc. 15.4; 15.4(2); PINK 15.4) ...... 40 15.5 International exchange of data and products (XIV-RA V/Doc. 15.5; APP_WP 15.5) ...... 41 15.6 WMO Quality Management Framework (XIV-RA V/Doc. 15.6; APP_WP 15.6) ...... 41 15.7 Group on Earth Observations process (XIV-RA V/Doc. 15.7; APP_WP 15.7) ...... 42 15.8 Internal matters of WMO (XIV-RA V/ PINK 15.8) ...... 42
16. OTHER REGIONAL ACTIVITIES ...... 43 16.1 Fifth Technical Conference on Management of Meteorological Services in Regional Association V (South-West Pacifi c) (XIV-RA V/Doc. 16.1; PINK 16.1) ...... 43 16.2 Internal matters of the Association (XIV-RA V/Doc. 16.2; PINK 16.2) ...... 43 16.3 Strategic Action Plan for the Development of Meteorology in the Pacifi c Region 2000–2009 (XIV-RA V/Doc. 16.3; APP_WP 16.3) ...... 44
17. WMO REGIONAL OFFICE FOR ASIA AND THE SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC, INCLUDING THE SUBREGIONAL OFFICE FOR THE SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC (XIV-RA V/Doc. 17; APP WP_17) ...... 44
18. SCIENTIFIC LECTURES AND DISCUSSIONS (XIV-RA V/DOC. 18; PINK 18) ...... 45
19. REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE ASSOCIATION AND OF RELEVANT EXECUTIVE COUNCIL RESOLUTIONS (XIV-RA V/Doc. 19; PINK 19) ...... 46
20. ELECTION OF OFFICERS (XIV-RA V/PINK 20; 20, REV.) ...... 46
21. DATE AND PLACE OF THE FIFTEENTH SESSION (XIV-RA V/PINK 21) ...... 46
22. CLOSURE OF THE SESSION (XIV-RA V/PINK 22) ...... 46
RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION
Final Session No. No.
1 4.1/1 Working Group on Planning and Implementation of the WWW in Region V ...... 47 2 4.2/1 Regional Basic Synoptic Network ...... 50 3 4.2/2 Regional Basic Climatological Network in Region V...... 56 4 4.2/3 Amendments to the Manual on the Global Observing System (WMO-No. 544), Volume II — Regional Aspects — Region V (South-West Pacific) ...... 60 5 4.2/4 Co-rapporteurs on Regional Aspects of Instrument Development, Related Training and Capacity-Building ...... 63 6 4.5/1 RA V Tropical Cyclone Committee for the South Pacific and South-East Indian Ocean ...... 63 CONTENTS V
Page
7 5.1/1 Re-establishment of the Working Group on Climate-related Matters ...... 64 8 6.1/1 Rapporteur on the Global Atmosphere Watch ...... 66 9 6.2/1 Rapporteur on WWRP-THORPEX ...... 66 10 7.2/1 Working Group on Agricultural Meteorology ...... 67 11 7.3/1 Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of the Aeronautical Meteorology Programme in Region V ...... 68 12 7.4/1 Co-rapporteurs on Regional Marine Meteorological and Oceanographic Services ...... 68 13 8/1 Working Group on Hydrology ...... 69 14 9/1 Rapporteur on Education and Training Matters ...... 70 15 11/1 Working Group on Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation in Regional Association V (South-West Pacific) ...... 71 16 12/1 Rapporteur for the WMO Space Programme ...... 72 17 15.7/1 Rapporteur for the Global Earth Observation System of Systems ...... 72 18 16.2/1 Management Group of Regional Association V (South-West Pacific) ...... 73 19 19/1 Review of previous resolutions and recommendations of the Association ...... 74
ANNEXES
I Specifi c WG-PIW tasks (paragraph 4.1.7 of the general summary)...... 79
II Regional Meteorological Telecommunication Network plan in RA V (paragraph 4.3.1 of the general summary) ...... 81
III Executive Council Statement on the Role and Operation of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (for decision makers) (paragraph 15.4.3 of the general summary) ...... 84
APPENDICES
A. List of persons attending the session ...... 86
B. List of abbreviations ...... 88 GENERAL SUMMARY OF THE WORK OF THE SESSION
1. OPENING OF THE SESSION (agenda item 1) appreciation to the Government of Australia, through 1.1 At the kind invitation of the Government Mr G. Love, for hosting the session in Adelaide. He of Australia, the fourteenth session of Regional noted that Colonel William Light, one of Adelaide’s Association (RA) V (South-West Pacifi c) was held founding fathers, was credited as the initiator of in Adelaide, Australia, from 9 to 16 May 2006. The weather observations in Adelaide. Mr Jarraud thanked session was declared open by Mr A. Ngari, acting pres- the acting president of RA V, Mr A. Ngari, the vice- ident of the Association, at 10.00 a.m. on 9 May 2006 president, Mr R. Prasad, the chairpersons, rapporteurs at the Stamford Plaza in Adelaide. and members of the working groups for their lead- 1.2 Mr Ngari welcomed the participants and ership and for the work that they had accomplished acknowledged their presence as a very clear indica- since the thirteenth session of RA V in Manila, the tion of their commitment to the work of the World Philippines, in 2002. He expressed gratitude to Meteorological Organization (WMO) in the Region Mr Love and his staff for the excellent arrangements and globally. He expressed his appreciation to the made to ensure the success of the session. Government of Australia for hosting the session in 1.6 The Secretary-General emphasized that he Adelaide, as well as for having hosted the eleventh attached a very high priority to WMO’s scientifi c and session of the RA V Tropical Cyclone Committee technical programmes; enhancing the support to for the South Pacifi c and South-East Indian Ocean, Members’ National Meteorological and Hydrological which had been held from 4 to 8 May 2006, and the Services (NMHSs); and promoting transparency and Exercise Pacifi c Wave 06 under the Australian Early internal controls in the Secretariat. Additionally, he Warning System scheduled for 16 to 17 May 2006. endeavoured to ensure synergy and effi ciency in the Mr Ngari extended his gratitude to the former pres- implementation of the new cross-cutting programmes: ident of the Association, Mr Woon Shih Lai, the the Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation vice-president, the chairpersons and members of the (DPM) Programme, the WMO Space Programme working groups and rapporteurs, and to Members and the WMO Programme for the Least Developed who had hosted regional events during the interses- Countries (LDCs). Recalling the tragic Indian Ocean sional period. He also expressed his gratitude for tsunami which had occurred in December 2004 and the continuing support of the WMO Secretariat the devastating effects of tropical cyclones, which hit under the leadership of the Secretary-General, the Members of the Region, Mr Jarraud indicated the Mr M. Jarraud. Region’s high vulnerability to natural disasters, and 1.3 Councillor R. Hayward extended a warm emphasized that WMO’s DPM Programme promoted welcome to all the participants on behalf of the Lord collaboration among relevant programmes. He also Mayor of Adelaide. He remarked that it was the fi rst time stressed that a shift in the disaster management that a WMO meeting had ever been held in Adelaide, approach from relief and rehabilitation to multi- and invited participants to take advantage of their pres- hazard preventive and proactive strategies had the ence in Adelaide to enjoy some of the many attractions potential to signifi cantly reduce the vulnerability of and premier events offered by that beautiful city. communities. 1.4 Mr G. Love, Director of the Australian Bureau 1.7 The Secretary-General shared with the of Meteorology (BOM) and Permanent Representative Association his views on issues relevant to the of Australia with WMO, expressed his pleasure, on session’s deliberations, such as some notable gaps behalf of the Federal Government of Australia, in in observational data coverage; shortcomings in the hosting the session. He said that 9 May 2006 was area of telecommunications; climate change and the day of the announcement of the Federal Budget climate variability; environmental concerns, includ- for 2006–2007, and therefore the Hon. G. Hunt MP, ing air and water quality, marine pollution and public Parliamentary Secretary with responsibility for BOM, health-related issues; and requirements for continu- was unable to come to Adelaide to extend his welcome ous training within NMHSs. personally as he was obliged to stay in Canberra. 1.8 The Secretary-General concluded that the Mr Love was highly appreciative of the friendliness Regional Offi ce for Asia and the South-West Pacifi c and and spirit of cooperation in the Region, and wished the Subregional Offi ce for the South-West Pacifi c would the session great success. serve as focal points to support regional activities, facili- 1.5 In his opening statement, Mr M. Jarraud, tate technical cooperation, and assist Members in their Secretary-General of WMO, extended a warm implementation of WMO Programmes and in the devel- welcome to all the participants. Mr Jarraud expressed opment of their NMHSs. 2 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
2. ORGANIZATION OF THE SESSION 2.4.2 The Association designated Mr S. Pulehetoa (agenda item 2) (Niue) as rapporteur on agenda item 19: Review 2.1 CONSIDERATION OF THE REPORT ON of previous resolutions and recommendations of CREDENTIALS (agenda item 2.1) the Association and of relevant Executive Council 2.1.1 The representative of the Secretary-General resolutions. presented reports on credentials taking into account 2.4.3 The Association agreed to waive General the documents received prior to and during the Regulation 109 for the duration of the session. session. The Association accepted the reports and decided that it would not be necessary to establish a 3. REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE Credentials Committee. ASSOCIATION (agenda item 3) 2.1.2 The session was attended by 55 participants 3.1 The Association noted with appreciation the from 20 Members of RA V, four observers from non- acting president’s report, which provided an assess- Members of WMO, three observers from regional and ment of the Association’s activities since its thirteenth international organizations and two experts. The list session and expressed satisfaction at the manner in of participants is given in Appendix A to the present which the activities were being undertaken. report. 3.2 The Association commended its former president, Mr Woon Shih Lai (Singapore), its 2.2 ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA (agenda item 2.2) former vice-president and current acting president, The provisional agenda for the session was unani- Mr A. Ngari (Cook Islands), and the vice-president, mously adopted with an additional item, namely Mr R. Prasad (Fiji), for their dedication in conduct- 15.8: Internal matters of WMO. ing the Association’s work, thus contributing to the further development of meteorology and hydrology 2.3 ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMITTEES in the Region. It also expressed its appreciation to the (agenda item 2.3) chairpersons and members of working groups and 2.3.1 It was agreed that the work of the session rapporteurs for their assistance in carrying out the would be carried out by all plenary sessions to deal activities of the Association. with the various agenda items as follows: 3.3 The Association extended its appreciation to (a) General Plenary chaired by the acting president Members for having hosted various regional events was assigned agenda items 1, 2, 3, 14, 15, 16, 17, and encouraged them to continue providing support 18, 19, 20, 21 and 22; for future activities. (b) Plenary A was assigned agenda items 4, 6, 7.1, 7.3, 3.4 The Association noted the priorities and future 7.4, 11 and 12. Mr J. Lumsden (New Zealand) and work programme presented by the acting president for Ms Sri W.B. Harijono (Indonesia) were designated the intersessional period, in particular those related to to serve as co-chairpersons of Plenary A; WMO scientifi c and technical programmes focusing (c) Plenary B was assigned agenda items 5, 7.2, 8, 9, on the specifi c needs of the Region, and would take 10 and 13. Mr R. Prasad (Fiji) and Mr Yap Kok Seng those into account in the establishment of the overall (Malayasia) were appointed as co-chairpersons of regional priorities. It requested the Secretary-General to Plenary B. take the regional needs of the Association into consid- 2.3.2 The following committees were established eration when organizing events in the Region. for the duration of the session. 4. WORLD WEATHER WATCH PROGRAMME NOMINATION COMMITTEE — REGIONAL ASPECTS (agenda item 4) 2.3.3 A Nomination Committee was established composed of the principal delegates of New Zealand 4.1 WWW PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION (chairperson), the Philippines and Tonga. PROGRAMME, INCLUDING THE REPORT OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE WORKING GROUP COORDINATION COMMITTEE ON PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF 2.3.4 A Coordination Committee was estab- THE WWW IN REGION V (agenda item 4.1) lished, comprising the acting president, the 4.1.1 The Association noted with appreciation vice-president, the representative of the Secretary- the report of the chairperson of the Working Group General, the co-chairpersons of Plenaries A and B on Planning and Implementation of the WWW in and secretaries of the General Plenary, Plenary A Region V (RA V/WG-PIW), Mr T. Hart (Australia). It and Plenary B. was noted that the Working Group had made good progress, and the major results were considered in 2.4 OTHER ORGANIZATIONAL detail under the relevant agenda items of the session. MATTERS (agenda item 2.4) 4.1.2 The Association thanked the National 2.4.1 The Association established its working hours Meteorological Service of Samoa for having hosted for the duration of the session. The Association agreed the fourth session of the RA V/WG-PIW in Apia in that no minutes of the General Plenary sessions would November–December 2005, and the Working Group be produced unless a Member specifi cally requested chairperson, coordinator and rapporteurs for the work them for a particular item. accomplished during the intersessional period. GENERAL SUMMARY 3
4.1.3 The Association considered the results of the adopted. The Association identifi ed the specifi c tasks, as monitoring of the operation of the World Weather listed in Annex I to the present report, that the WG-PIW Watch (WWW) in 2003–2005 from the annual global should carry out during the forthcoming intersessional monitoring (October each year) and the quarterly period with a view to further developing WWW imple- Special Main Telecommunication Network (MTN) mentation in the Region and to effectively meeting Monitoring (SMM). The Association noted that the evolving requirements. availability of SYNOP reports (around 69 per cent) and TEMP reports (57 to 63 per cent) from Regional 4.2 INTEGRATED OBSERVING SYSTEM, INCLUDING Basic Synoptic Network (RBSN) stations, though near THE INSTRUMENTS AND METHODS OF the WMO average, did not completely meet the needs OBSERVATION PROGRAMME of its NMHSs. The availability of CLIMAT and CLIMAT (agenda item 4.2) TEMP reports from Regional Basic Climatological 4.2.1 The Association noted the Progress/Activity Network (RBCN) stations in 2004 had been 79 and Report on the Integrated Observing System, includ- 83 per cent, respectively (see agenda item 4.2 for ing the Instruments and Methods of Observation further details). Programme (IMOP). 4.1.4 The Association gave particular attention to Resolution 2 (Cg-XIV) — World Weather Watch SURFACE-BASED SUBSYSTEM Programme for 2004–2007, and Resolution 25 (Cg-XIV) — Sixth WMO Long-term Plan, which REGIONAL BASIC SYNOPTIC NETWORK confi rmed that the WWW continued to have the high- 4.2.2 The Association noted that, overall, owing to est priority as the basic WMO Programme and provided Members’ efforts, the observing system was function- the basis for NMHS operations and the international ing reasonably well in the Region, although there were exchange of data and products. The Association also defi ciencies in some areas. It appreciated the work done noted Resolution 5 (Cg-XIV), under which the new by the RA V/WG-PIW, through the Co-rapporteurs on major WMO Space Programme had been established Regional Aspects of Integrated Observing Systems, to increase the effectiveness and contributions from to identify and address defi ciencies in the observing satellite systems to WMO Programmes as indicated programmes. It also appreciated the work done by the in the Sixth WMO Long-term Plan (6LTP). As regards Regional Lead Centre on Data Quality Monitoring to Resolution 29 (Cg-XIV) — Natural Disaster Prevention improve monitoring procedures and for the presen- and Mitigation Programme, the Association empha- tation and distribution of monitoring results on the sized the important role of the WWW system at availability and quality of surface-based observational the regional level and, in particular, its information data. systems and services component for the exchange of 4.2.3 As regards the revision of the RBSN, the early warnings and related information. Association confi rmed the principles to be applied for 4.1.5 The Association reviewed the aspects relevant the inclusion of stations in the RBSN. It noted with to the WWW implementation of the WMO Programme appreciation the efforts undertaken by the chairperson for the LDCs in conjunction with the United Nations of the WG-PIW in compiling, in coordination with the Programme of Action for the Sustainable Development Secretariat and RA V Members, a revised consolidated of Small Island Developing States. It emphasized the list of RBSN stations. critical importance of using technologies for the imple- 4.2.4 The Association adopted Resolution 2 mentation of national WWW components that were (XIV-RA V). adapted to and capable of matching the specifi c needs, constraints and abilities of the small island developing REGIONAL BASIC CLIMATOLOGICAL NETWORK States (SIDS) in the Region, with particular attention 4.2.5 The Association noted with satisfaction that given to minimizing operational recurrent costs. the establishment of an RBCN in all WMO Regions 4.1.6 The Association stressed that it would and in the Antarctic had allowed more effective and continue to play an active role in the implemen- consistent monitoring of the availability of climato- tation and further development of the WWW in logical data. It also noted activities coordinated by the Region V to keep the WWW Programme under contin- Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) and the Global uous review and to recommend adjustments in the Climate Observing System (GCOS) to improve the light of Members’ changing requirements and devel- quantity and quality of CLIMAT and CLIMAT TEMP opments in science and technology, bearing in mind reports, and invited the World Climate Programme the principles and directives laid down in the 6LTP. (WCP) and GCOS to consider the need for the It should also identify defi ciencies, propose remedial exchange of CLIMAT TEMP messages. measures and develop system support projects on a 4.2.6 The Association adopted Resolution 3 regional scale. (XIV-RA V). 4.1.7 The Association agreed that, taking into account the many tasks related to the basic WWW components, SPACE-BASED SUBSYSTEM it was necessary to re-establish the Working Group 4.2.7 The Association noted the status of the space- on Planning and Implementation of the WWW in based subsystem of the Global Observing System (GOS) Region V. Accordingly, Resolution 1 (XIV-RA V) was available in the Region. It noted with appreciation and 4 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V gratitude the efforts made by meteorological satellite 4.2.13 Noting that accurate and timely measure- agencies in the recent major improvement in the ments were a prerequisite for successful natural implementation of meteorological satellites covering disaster prevention and mitigation, the Association the Region, including the cooperation between asked the Secretary-General to strengthen Members’ the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and the capacities in observing practices and the calibration National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of instruments through training workshops, such (NOAA) in ensuring the continuous coverage of as training workshops on upper-air observations geostationary satellite imagery until the launch of and on instrument calibrations. It noted with inter- MTSAT-1R. The Association observed that research est that evaluation missions had been conducted in satellite data were being used operationally at NMHSs the Regional Instrument Centres (RICs) of develop- (e.g. data assimilation models) and at forecast offi ces ing countries, including RIC Manila (Philippines), to (e.g. QuikSCAT). Those data were included in develop proposals to strengthen their operational and the GOS and were disseminated over the Global capacity-building functions and services, and that the Telecommunication System (GTS). The Association Training Workshop on Metrology for the RICs had been urged continued access to research satellite data for held in Trappes (France) in October 2005, with the operations, and noted the importance of coordinating participation of the RICs of Melbourne (Australia) and strategies and plans for the transition of successful Manila. The Association also requested that a survey research satellite capabilities to operations. be carried out to ascertain the capacity of Members in 4.2.8 The Association recalled that Fourteenth the areas of calibration and maintenance. Congress had established a new major cross-cutting Programme, the WMO Space Programme, in response THE FORCED NEED TO REPLACE to the momentous expansion in the availability of CERTAIN RADIOSONDE SYSTEMS satellite data, products and services. It noted the 4.2.14 Noting the report on the impact of the forced decision to institutionalize the sessions as WMO need to replace certain radiosonde systems on the Consultative Meetings on High-level Policy on upper-air network, the Association appreciated that Satellite Matters in order to formalize the dialogue steps had been taken towards avoiding a prolonged and participation of environmental satellite agencies loss of upper-air data, especially in developing coun- in WMO matters. tries. It was pleased to note that, through a coordinated effort of the WMO Secretariat and donors, some 19 GOS-RELATED REGULATORY MATERIAL upper-air stations had been or were being assisted (REGIONAL ASPECTS) in upgrading/replacing their current systems, with 4.2.9 The Association noted the activities under- priorities being set for GCOS and operational stations. taken on updating the regional entry for the Manual That included seven stations of RA V (Penrhyn, Cook on the Global Observing System (WMO-No. 544) in Islands; Tarawa, Kiribati; Port Moresby, Papua New response to evolving requirements. Guinea; Laoag, Philippines; Honiara, Solomon Islands; 4.2.10 The Association adopted Resolution 4 Funafuti, Tuvalu; and Bauerfi eld, Vanuatu). Also, tech- (XIV-RA V). nical assistance had been provided on request.
INSTRUMENTS AND METHODS OF REPORT OF THE CO-RAPPORTEURS ON REGIONAL OBSERVATION PROGRAMME ASPECTS OF INSTRUMENT DEVELOPMENT, 4.2.11 The Association noted the outcomes of the RELATED TRAINING AND CAPACITY-BUILDING thirteenth session of the Commission for Instruments 4.2.15 The Association noted with appreciation the and Methods of Observation (CIMO), held in Bratislava report of Mr B. Forgan (Australia) and Mr C. Davis (Slovakia) in September/October 2002. It stressed that (Philippines), the Co-rapporteurs on Regional Aspects IMOP was of fundamental importance for ensur- of Instrument Development, Related Training and ing the quality and reliability of meteorological and Capacity-Building and noted their contribution to related observations that were essential to Members’ the enhancement of capacity-building matters in the operational and research activities. fi eld of instruments and methods of observation. The 4.2.12 The Association agreed that the understand- Association decided to appoint Co-rapporteurs and ing of the Earth’s climatic system, climate variability adopted Resolution 5 (XIV-RA V). and climate change would greatly benefi t from homo- 4.2.16 The Association agreed that RICs were instru- geneous data measured all over the world. It welcomed mental in satisfying the needs of the Region for regular the fact that some urgently needed intercomparisons calibration, standardization, instrument comparisons had been implemented, and steps had been taken to and evaluation and for training instrument experts. proceed with others according to the action plan set The Association requested RICs to continue strength- up by the thirteenth session of CIMO, namely the ening their capabilities and regularly inform Members WMO Field Intercomparison of Rainfall Intensity on their services and plans. Instruments (2007/2008) and the WMO Combined 4.2.17 Noting that very homogeneous solar radia- Intercomparison of Thermometer Screens/Shields in tion data measured throughout the world were a Conjunction with Humidity Measuring Instruments precondition for the successful determination of (2006/2007). the radiation budget, the Association requested the GENERAL SUMMARY 5
Secretary-General to organize regular regional pyrheli- and requested the WG-PIW to monitor and coordinate ometer comparisons in the Region from six months to the necessary arrangements. four years following the International Pyrheliometer 4.3.4 The Association noted the successful results Comparisons. of the three radio and Internet (RANET) pilot projects, utilizing the WorldSpace Asia satellite, conducted 4.3 INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND SERVICES, within the Region. When coupled with a high INCLUDING TELECOMMUNICATIONS, DATA frequency (HF) e-mail system, RANET and EMWIN MANAGEMENT AND THE OPERATIONAL provided a cost-effective two-way communications INFORMATION SERVICE (agenda item 4.3) system for small island States. The system provided seamless integration into the GTS, currently through REGIONAL METEOROLOGICAL RTH Melbourne, with RTH Wellington and NMC TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK Honolulu being seen as future GTS access nodes. 4.3.1 The Association noted the progress made The Association invited the United States to consider in the upgrade of the Regional Meteorological the inclusion of the RANET content into the low- Telecommunication Network (RMTN), including the rate information transmission (LRIT) broadcast from duplication of Regional Telecommunication Hub the GOES satellites for small island States east of the (RTH) Melbourne’s communication facilities at the international date-line that could not receive AsiaStar BOM Disaster Recovery site in Brisbane, the upgrade of broadcasts. It noted that the EMWIN content was also the Singapore–Manila and Singapore–Bangkok circuits carried within the GOES LRIT broadcast, which created from X.25 to Frame Relay using Transmission Control added redundancy. As regards LRIT, the Association also Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) procedures, and noted the urgent requirement for completing upgrades the planned upgrade of the AFTN X.25 circuits between of receiving stations following the replacement of the Hawaii and islands in the North Pacifi c, Pago Pago and weather facsimile (WEFAX) service on the GOES-10 Apia, initially to TCP/IP and a subsequent replacement satellite with an LRIT broadcast. with two-way VSAT. The diagrams of the RMTN plan 4.3.5 Noting the important role of EMWIN, RANET are included in Annex II to the present report. and HF e-mail in operational meteorological commu- 4.3.2 The Association noted with appreciation nications in the Region, the Association endorsed the the successful upgrade of the International Satellite WG-PIW’s recommendation that EMWIN, RANET and Communication System (ISCS) broadcast, which was HF e-mail systems be included as components of the part of the RMTN, from X.25 to TCP/IP. Noting that RMTN. the ISCS upgrade provided additional capacity for the distribution of data and products, the Association INTERNET SERVICES agreed that requirements for data and products in 4.3.6 The Association noted with appreciation that Region V should be reviewed, and welcomed the fact there were several complementary mechanisms for data that an ad hoc group of the WG-PIW would be re- exchange available to NMHSs in RA V, which generally established for that purpose. The ad hoc group would depended on the Internet and TCP/IP technologies include the Regional Coordinator for Information implemented by RTH Melbourne and Wellington. In Systems and Services (ISS), a representative of the that respect, it also noted with satisfaction that CBS Pacifi c area, who would be designated by the WG- had developed and was further developing guidance PIW chairperson in consultation with the Members and recommended practices for meteorological and concerned, and the focal point of the World related data exchange over the Internet. Meteorological Centre (WMC)/RTH Washington. The ad hoc group would conduct its work mainly by SUPPORT FOR EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS correspondence, including through the e-mail, and 4.3.7 The Association noted with appreciation would consult the Pacifi c countries concerned on the WMO plan and efforts towards strengthening their requirements. the GTS in the Indian Ocean region for the exchange of warnings and related information in support of COMPLEMENTARY SYSTEMS multi-hazard warning systems, including the Tsunami 4.3.3 The Association noted with appreciation the Warning System. current status of the United States Emergency Managers 4.3.8 The Association addressed the implications Weather Information Network (EMWIN). EMWIN was for the Pacifi c Tsunami Warning System and agreed provided via the GOES-10 and GOES-12 satellites and that a workshop should be held for centres and other was a vital link in meteorological communications in stakeholders within the Pacifi c Ocean area to assess the Pacifi c, especially for small Pacifi c islands. Over the capability of, and recommend any changes to, 30 EMWIN systems were implemented in 18 Pacifi c the GTS in the Regions concerned to support multi- countries. The Association also noted that when the hazard warning systems, especially the Tsunami present GOES-10 and GOES-12 satellites were replaced Warning System. It noted with interest that a fi rst with the new GOES series, it would be necessary to ever Pacifi c-wide tsunami exercise was planned for replace the current EMWIN receivers to meet the new May 2006 by the Intergovernmental Coordination transmission specifi cations. The Association empha- Group for the Pacifi c Tsunami Warning System sized the need to plan the changeover well in advance, (ICG/PTWS) of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic 6 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
Commission (IOC), and encouraged Member coun- Region to ensure that all activities were integrated, tries and NMHSs to participate. The exercise should impacts minimized, problems identifi ed and progress assist in identifying shortcomings in the communica- monitored, and that a regional coordination/steer- tion systems in the Pacifi c region. ing function would be required. It requested the WG-PIW to immediately start to develop a regional GTS AND DATA MANAGEMENT plan for the migration to TDCF, in liaison with the TECHNIQUES AND PROCEDURES CBS/ISS/Coordination Team on Migration to Table 4.3.9 The Association noted the relevant conclu- Driven Code Forms. The regional plan should serve as sions and recommendations of the thirteenth session a framework for the development of a national migra- of CBS (St Petersburg, 2005) related to GTS and data tion plan by each Member. A national pilot project management techniques and procedures, which had should also be promoted. The Association agreed an impact on the implementation and operation of the upon the WG-PIW’s recommendation that a rappor- RMTN of Region V. It invited all NMHSs in the Region teur on migration to TDCF be established within the to benefi t from CBS recommendations and guidance WG-PIW. It also recommended that CBS pursue imagi- for their information systems. It also requested the native approaches to facilitate the migration process WG-PIW, and in particular the Subgroup on Regional for NMHSs. Aspects of Information Systems and Services, to coor- dinate the smooth introduction of those developments WMO INFORMATION SYSTEM in the Region. 4.3.13 The Association noted the development of the WMO Information System (WIS) based on the concept MIGRATION TO TABLE-DRIVEN CODE FORMS endorsed by Fourteenth Congress calling for an over- 4.3.10 The Association noted that the Fourteenth arching approach to meet the information exchange World Meteorological Congress (2003) had endorsed requirements of all WMO Programmes. Congress had the migration plan developed by CBS and had urged emphasized that all WMO Programmes and technical every Member country to develop as soon as possible commissions should actively participate and contrib- a national migration plan, derived from the interna- ute their own expertise and resources in all phases of tional plan, with analysis of impacts, costs, solutions, the development of WIS. Congress had noted that the sources of funding (as necessary), national training, implementation of WIS should build upon the most technical planning and a schedule. Congress had high- successful components of existing WMO information lighted the complexity of the migration process and systems in an evolutionary, smooth and coordinated had requested CBS to put in place an effective imple- process. In particular, WIS would build upon the GTS mentation/coordination mechanism for guiding, with respect to the requirements for highly reliable assisting and monitoring the migration to table- delivery of time-critical data and products. driven code forms (TDCF). The plan for migration to 4.3.14 The Association noted that the fi fty-sixth TDCF had been enforced, and the era of implemen- session of the Executive Council had established tation and coordination had started. The plan had the Intercommission Coordination Group on WIS called for the start of the operational exchange by (ICG-WIS) for achieving the challenging task of 2 November 2005 of data in TDCF from category 1, strengthening coordination between the technical common codes, but with dissemination also in tradi- commissions for the development of WIS. It noted tional alphanumeric codes (TAC) when potential users that a milestone timetable had been developed with could not receive and process the TDCF. That category a view to starting the implementation of some WIS included SYNOP, TEMP, PILOT and CLIMAT code forms. components in 2006, and developing a comprehen- The actual implementation of the migration process sive prototype for the extraordinary session of CBS would take several years to ensure a smooth transition in 2006. The Association recommended that the plan according to Members’ capabilities. for WIS evolution include a timetable to show specifi c 4.3.11 The Association emphasized that an actions and plans for Region V. A technical conference important issue for the migration to TDCF was the on WIS would be held just before the extraordinary identifi cation and adaptation of all applications that session of CBS in 2006. The Association considered were using data and products in TAC form. It therefore that the Region should play an active role in the agreed that a detailed investigation should be carried further development and planning of WIS, in particu- out to assess the number and types of relevant appli- lar in developing Global Information System Centre cations at each NMHS, including users. It noted that (GISC)/Data Collection or Product Centre (DCPC)/ TDCF encoder/decoder software was available free National Centre pilot projects, with a view to generat- of charge, or at a minimal cost, from several NMHSs ing benefi ts for all WMO Programmes at the regional or organizations, including the National Centers for level. Environmental Prediction (NCEP) (United States), the 4.3.15 The Association noted with appreciation European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts the WIS Virtual Private Network Pilot Project in (ECMWF), the Met Offi ce (United Kingdom) and the Regions II and V that had started in 2003 and was Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD) (Germany). led by JMA. The Association was very satisfi ed with 4.3.12 The Association stressed that appropri- the successful development of the project and the ate mechanisms needed to be implemented in the progress made by incorporating new subprojects GENERAL SUMMARY 7 in its successive phases. The project was carried out prompt notifi cation of changes and updated infor- through regional collaboration supported by the mation from NMHSs. It urged NMHSs to ensure that voluntary participation of a wide range of centres. The all changes reached WMC/RTH Melbourne (Weather Association was pleased that the current participation Reporting (WMO-No. 9), Volume C1 — Catalogue of included fi ve National Meteorological Centres (NMCs) Meteorological Bulletins) and the Secretariat without of the Region (Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, delay. They would thus benefi t from the improved OIS New Zealand and Singapore). The Association encour- for access to the up-to-date information required for aged participation by more countries in subsequent their operations. stages of the Pilot Project. It emphasized that the Pilot Project should also include participation by at least 4.4 DATA-PROCESSING AND FORECASTING one NMHS from a small island developing State, and SYSTEM (agenda item 4.4) recommended that a participating Centre be selected as soon as possible. STATUS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GLOBAL 4.3.16 The Association noted the current develop- DATA-PROCESSING AND FORECASTING SYSTEM ment of the Global Earth Observation System of Systems 4.4.1 The centres of the Global Data-processing (GEOSS), including the draft 10-Year Implementation and Forecasting System (GDPFS) in RA V continued Plan and the 2006 Workplan. It agreed that the WWW to maintain and enhance their operational numerical information systems, in particular the GTS and WIS, weather prediction (NWP) systems as well as special- were a unique global data exchange system for mete- ized products and services provided by the designated orological and related earth observations and should Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres (RSMCs), play a leading role in GEOSS development. and contributed to the overall operations of the GDPFS. WMC Melbourne and the Association of South-East RADIO FREQUENCIES FOR METEOROLOGICAL Asian Nations (ASEAN) Specialized Meteorological ACTIVITIES Centre (ASMC) Singapore were running global 4.3.17 The Association noted that Fourteenth models. WMC Melbourne had successfully developed Congress had reaffi rmed the prime importance of radio and tested an ensemble prediction system (EPS) and frequency matters for meteorological and related envi- planned to implement it operationally by the end of ronmental operations and research. The International 2006. In addition, RSMCs with geographical speciali- Telecommunication Union (ITU) Radio Regulations zation (Darwin, Melbourne, Wellington) provided addressed requirements for meteorological and related regional products to assist NMCs in the forecasting of environmental activities. Nonetheless, the threat to small-, meso- and large-scale weather systems. Several the full range of radio frequency bands allocated for NMCs (Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Singapore, Darwin, meteorological and related environmental systems Melbourne, Wellington) were running limited area was continuing with the increasing development and models. WMC Melbourne was producing seasonal to expansion of new commercial radiocommunication inter-annual forecasts based on ensemble predictions systems. The Association strongly urged Members to from a coupled ocean-atmosphere model. actively participate in radio frequency activities, espe- 4.4.2 GDPFS centres in the Region had made more cially the preparation of World Radiocommunication of their forecast products and/or services available Conference (WRC) issues, conducted by their national on the Internet to serve various offi ces within their radiocommunication administrations, by regional country as well as overseas centres. Australia had a radiocommunication organizations (the Asia-Pacifi c very large list of products available on the Internet Telecommunity for the Asia-Pacifi c region), and by the for the public and registered users, including dedi- ITU. The Association also noted with appreciation the cated web pages for many NMHSs in the Region. favourable outcome of the WRC held in 2003 as regards ASMC Singapore provided specialized meteorologi- the several items of serious concern for meteorology, cal services to ASEAN members, particularly in the and that the CBS/Steering Group on Radio Frequency environmental surveillance of forest fi res and haze in Coordination was pursuing its important coordination the Region. The ASMC Intranet had been made acces- activities with the ITU Radiocommunication Sector, sible to the public. Users could access daily updates including preparation of the WRC to be held in 2007. on hotspot distribution and the haze situation in the Region, as determined from satellite remote sensing, OPERATIONAL INFORMATION SERVICE as well as other climate-related forecasts and products 4.3.18 The Association noted with appreciation that concerning environmental monitoring on the ASMC operational information was posted on the WMO server Intranet. (http://www.wmo.int/web/www/ois/ois-home.htm) 4.4.3 Global model outputs from Exeter, and was dispatched on a CD-ROM once a year. The Washington, Australia, ECMWF and JMA, available Association noted with satisfaction that those arrange- through the GTS, satellite broadcasts and/or the ments had ensured better data reliability, timeliness of Internet, were being used by various centres within distribution, and greater fl exibility for Members using the Region. operational information. The Association empha- 4.4.4 WMO had organized the Workshop on Multi- sized that the overall effi ciency of the Operational Hazard, Early Warning Centres’ Concept of Operations Information Service (OIS) was dependent on the for the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning System 8 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
(Singapore, 21–23 November 2005). The goal had been Climate Center (APCC), established in the Republic of to benefi t from the wealth of knowledge and experience Korea, intended to develop a well-validated multi-model of its established RSMCs and existing tsunami warning ensemble system for LRF as a measure for minimizing the centres to further promote and develop the concept of impact of natural disasters. The APCC multi-model ensem- operations of multi-hazard multi-purpose early warn- ble system was based on the global models developed at ing systems. WMO was working together with the IOC, different institutes of several APEC Members which had the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR) been partially validated in operational programmes of and other key partners at the international, regional seasonal and climate forecasts; fi fteen different models and national levels to contribute its relevant capabili- were being used in the project. The Association noted ties and existing infrastructure to the development the value of GPC medium- and long-range predictions of of end-to-end tsunami early warning systems in the heavy precipitation for NMHS forecasts supporting disas- Indian Ocean and other regions at risk. ter prevention and mitigation. The Association requested the WMO Secretariat to investigate access for Region V ENSEMBLE PREDICTION SYSTEMS Members to additional prediction products, specifi cally 4.4.5 The products from EPSs were becoming medium-range rainfall forecasts and seasonal forecasts, increasingly important in forecasting, although they broken down by month. were currently useful mainly for forecast timescales from medium-range to long-range predictions. A signifi cant SEVERE WEATHER FORECASTING application for the Region at that time was in tropical DEMONSTRATION PROJECT cyclone track prediction where multi-model ensemble 4.4.8 The thirteenth session of CBS had acknowl- predictions were becoming increasingly important. The edged the continuing need to improve severe weather Association noted that a regional training workshop forecasting, and that it would be best to address the for RA II and RA V on EPS had been conducted from matter fi rst within regional associations, taking into 18 to 23 April 2005 in Shanghai (China), following account Members’ capabilities and the severe weather one conducted in Brazil in January 2005. An increas- issues that needed to be tackled as a priority within ing quantity of EPS products was being made available different Regions. Two demonstration projects on from main producing centres. severe weather forecasting, one on tropical cyclones and 4.4.6 The WMO standardized verifi cation system for another on heavy precipitation and wind storms (not EPS was being implemented by EPS-producing centres. associated with tropical cyclones) were being developed The experimental exchange of verifi cation data had as a concrete contribution of the WWW Programme to been established by JMA, which had provided a data the new WMO DPM Programme. Those projects were server and website. Following the thirteenth session of intended to involve global NWP-producing centres, CBS in 2005, statements on the general responsibili- regional centres, and the NMCs of developing coun- ties of lead centres for the verifi cation of EPS had been tries as well as disaster management and civil protection added to the Manual on the Global Data-processing and authorities. The scope of the project was to evaluate prod- Forecasting System (WMO-No. 485). RSMC Tokyo had ucts currently available from NWP centres, or products been designated as the Lead Centre. that could be made available from current systems, with the aim of enhancing the effectiveness of the forecast- LONG-RANGE FORECASTS ing systems of NMHSs in the provision of early warnings 4.4.7 The Association noted that the continued consol- of high-impact weather events. General terms for the idation of the infrastructure for the supply of products in demonstration projects had been endorsed by the thir- support of seasonal to inter-annual prediction would have teenth session of CBS. The Steering Group for the Severe benefi ts for many countries in the Region. The thirteenth Weather Forecasting Demonstration Project, chaired by session of CBS had established procedures for the designa- the chairperson of the Open Programme Area Group tion of Global Producing Centres (GPCs) for long-range (OPAG) on the Data-processing and Forecasting System forecasts (LRF). Centres seeking such designation commit- (DPFS), had been formed to guide in the planning of the ted themselves to making available a minimum list of Project and had met from 14 to 16 December 2005 in LRF products, and to providing documentation on their Geneva. Mr I. Shepherd of RSMC Darwin was a member systems, including verifi cation information showing the of the Project Steering Group. performance of the hindcast development data sets and 4.4.9 The Project Steering Group had established ongoing performance. That information allowed users to an Overall Project Plan, decided to develop, and then make an assessment of the expected average skill of the provided input for, a guidebook for the planning of forecast system for their area of interest. The GPCs would regional subprojects, and developed a list of suitable make that verifi cation information available through regional subprojects. In order to assess suitable regional the Lead Centre for the Long Range Forecast Verifi cation subprojects, the Steering Group clarifi ed further the System that was operated jointly by WMC Melbourne and general terms and criteria for participating centres, and RSMC Montreal. It was recommended that the Regional applied the following additional considerations: high Climate Centre (RCC) nominations be expedited, since likelihood of success (to test the Overall Project Plan); GPCs needed to identify their principal users. RCCs and potential for greatest benefi ts; nature of the risk/threat NMCs should provide GPCs with feedback on their LRF of severe weather; timing of high-risk season relative to products. The Asia-Pacifi c Economic Cooperation (APEC) the lead time required for planning and implementation; GENERAL SUMMARY 9 meeting project criteria; actual capacity at participating to provide accurate tropical cyclone forecasts and centres; and costs and availability of funds. From the timely early warning services in Region V. possible regional subprojects, it decided to recommend 4.5.3 With regard to the report of the eleventh one most suitable for implementation in 2006, with a session of the RA V/TCC, which had been held in duration of approximately one year, as well as two other Adelaide from 4 to 8 May 2006, in association with next most suitable regional subprojects for considera- the fourteenth session of RA V, the Association tion in 2007, pending the success of the project to be commended the Members of the RA V/TCC for their implemented in 2006. formulation of a new technical plan for 2006–2007. 4.4.10 The Project Steering Group had recom- 4.5.4 The Association expressed its appreciation mended a regional subproject in RA V with respect to to Australia, China, the European Union, Japan, New severe weather associated with tropical cyclones for Zealand and the United States for their invaluable contri- consideration in 2007. butions to the substantial upgrading of the facilities, equipment and staff support to the RSMC Nadi Tropical EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES Cyclone Centre and the National Meteorological or 4.4.11 RSMC Melbourne, designated for activity Hydrometeorological Services (NMSs) in the Region. It specialization in nuclear emergency response, main- also thanked the United Kingdom and France for having tained its operations for the provision of specialized provided support for upgrading the capabilities of the atmospheric transport and dispersion model products NMSs in the interests of the Region. under the WMO Regional and Global Arrangements. 4.5.5 In view of the fact that the International It had participated in monthly exercises with backup Workshops on Tropical Cyclones (IWTCs) served RSMCs (Montreal and Washington) of RA IV, and in as a forum for the interaction between forecasters the ConvEx-3 (2005) international nuclear emergency and researchers and encouraged the application of exercise in May 2005. Darwin and Wellington were- research results to operational usage, the Association also designated Volcanic Ash Advisory Centres that was pleased to learn that the sixth IWTC would be provided specialized ash cloud trajectories and disper- held in San José (Costa Rica) from 21 to 30 November sion forecasts for aviation purposes. 2006. The Association underscored the importance 4.4.12 RSMC Melbourne had continued to apply of RA V participation in the Workshop and requested specialized numerical modelling tools to support envi- that efforts be exerted to support as many RA V fore- ronmental emergency response such as the regional casters as possible, including exploring the possibility dispersion of smoke from fi res, ash from volcanic of fi nancial support from voluntary sources. eruptions, and spreading of biological hazards. The 4.5.6 Recognizing the great importance of the present priority for the Emergency Reponse Activities continuing work of the RA V/TCC, the Association (ERA) Programme was to advance the work on the decided to re-establish the Committee. Accordingly, specialized applications of atmospheric transport and Resolution 6 (XIV-RA V) was adopted. dispersion modelling for non-nuclear applications, 4.5.7 The Association decided to keep in force focusing initially on chemical accidents and smoke Resolution 10 (X-RA V) — Tropical Cyclone Operational from large fi res (wild-land, oil and chemical fi res). Plan for the South Pacifi c and South-East Indian Ocean, since it was playing an effective role in strengthening 4.5 TROPICAL CYCLONE PROGRAMME the warning services of tropical cyclones in the Region (agenda item 4.5) towards the mitigation of tropical cyclone disasters. 4.5.1 The Association expressed its satisfaction with 4.5.8 In view of the vitally important role of the the achievements and further progress being made in TCP in the ISDR and the sustainable development of the implementation of both the general and regional SIDS, including specifi cally that under the work of the components of the Tropical Cyclone Programme (TCP) RA V/TCC and the Typhoon Committee in Region V, towards the mitigation of tropical cyclone disasters in the Association decided to continue to give high prior- the Region, especially in association with the ISDR ity to the TCP in relation to regional priorities in the (successor to the International Decade for Natural WMO Long-term Plan (LTP). Disaster Reduction — IDNDR) and in the context of the sustainable development of SIDS. 5. WORLD CLIMATE PROGRAMME 4.5.2 The Association noted with appreciation the — REGIONAL ASPECTS (agenda item 5) informative report submitted by Mr S.C. Ready (New Zealand), chairperson of the RA V Tropical Cyclone 5.1 CLIMATE PROGRAMME COORDINATION Committee (RA V/TCC) for the South Pacifi c and AND SUPPORT ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING South-East Indian Ocean. Recognizing the importance THE REPORT OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF of regional cooperation and coordination to establish THE WORKING GROUP ON CLIMATE- regionally coordinated early warning systems, the RELATED MATTERS (agenda item 5.1) Association commended the Members concerned, the RA V/TCC and the intergovernmental Economic and WMO RA V WORKING GROUP ON Social Commission for Asia and the Pacifi c (ESCAP)/ CLIMATE-RELATED MATTERS WMO Typhoon Committee for their contribution and 5.1.1 The Association noted with appreciation efforts, particularly towards improving the capability the report of the chairperson of the WMO Region V 10 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
Working Group on Climate Matters, Mr J. Weyman by Australia as part of the Pacifi c Islands Climate (United States). The Working Group had made good Prediction Project (PI-CPP); progress, and the major results were considered in (f) Training by Météo-France on automatic weather detail under this and other relevant agenda items of station (AWS) equipment maintenance in French the session. Polynesia, with tentative plans to hold forecaster 5.1.2 The Association commended the Working training in September 2006 in New Caledonia. Group and the RA V Task Team on the Provision 5.1.5 The Association noted the ongoing South of Seasonal to Inter-annual Forecasts and Regional Pacifi c Sea Level and Climate Monitoring Project Climate Services for having defi ned an appropriate (Phase 4), funded by the Australian Government and mode for delivering RCC functions in the Region. now managed by BOM. The Project was intended to It was noted that NMHSs wanted a clear delinea- address concerns raised by the Pacifi c island countries tion between RCC services delivered at the regional on the impacts of sea level rise and climate changes level and the services delivered by NMHSs at the resulting from global warming. The Association national and local levels. The Association noted and thanked the Bureau for having collected all of the sea approved the proposal to further clarify during the level data and conducting monthly quality assurance intersessional period how RCC functions should on those data. The Bureau was continuing to explore be implemented in the Region. The Association ways to make those data more accessible. learned that Indonesia had proposed the establish- ment of a climate centre in Jakarta and had made STATUS OF THE THIRD EDITION OF THE WMO GUIDE presentations regarding the proposed centre at vari- TO CLIMATOLOGICAL PRACTICES (WMO-NO. 100) ous regional forums. The Association agreed that, 5.1.6 The Association noted that the Expert Team in light of the issues identifi ed above, it was neces- on the Guide to Climatological Practices had held a sary to re-establish the RA V Working Group on meeting in Toulouse (France) from 19 to 23 September Climate-related Matters. Accordingly, Resolution 7 2005. The Association requested the Secretary-General (XIV-RA V) was adopted. to facilitate the swift completion and distribution of 5.1.3 The Association noted that, from time to the third edition of the Guide, noting that many RA V time, there was limited interaction and collaboration Members were in the process of reviewing and, where among RA V working groups and other organizations possible, upgrading their climate networks, for which dealing with climate matters, and that might lead the Guide would be a valuable reference. to a duplication of efforts or different fi ndings. The Association agreed to take steps to improve the TECHNICAL CONFERENCE ON CLIMATE AS A RESOURCE exchange of information in that regard in order 5.1.7 The Association noted that the Commission to address common issues in a more collective, for Climatology (CCl) had held its fourteenth session collaborative and effi cient manner. in Beijing (China) from 3 to 10 November 2005. 5.1.4 The Association expressed its appreciation The Association welcomed the organization of the for the many climate-related training courses and Technical Conference on Climate as a Resource, prior workshops held in the Region, which included: to the fourteenth session of CCl, in Beijing from 1 to (a) The WMO Training Seminar in Climate Database 2 November 2005 and noted that more than Management for RA V held in Melbourne (Australia) 122 participants representing NMHSs, universities, from 29 November to 3 December 2004; international organizations, private sectors and (b) The United States East-West Center, University of regional institutions from 71 countries had taken the South Pacifi c, and the National Institute of part in the two-day conference. The Association Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) train- expressed its appreciation to Australia, Japan, France ing programme on climate and extreme events and the Organization of the Petrolium Exporting held in June 2004 at the University of the South Countries Fund for International Development Laucala Campus, Suva; which had contributed to the Technical Conference (c) A series of workshops, conducted within the and enhanced the participation of delegates from WMO framework of the Asia-Pacifi c Network for LDCs and developing countries. The Association Global Change Research (APN) by the Bureau requested the Secretariat to ensure that practical and of Meteorology Research Centre, on homoge- well-targeted recommendations were included in the neity testing, calculation of climate indices and proceedings of the Conference. regional trends analysis. The workshops led to published papers cited in the preparation of the INTERNATIONAL STRATEGY FOR DISASTER REDUCTION Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 5.1.8 The Association noted the importance of the (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report; active participation of WCP in the Inter-Agency Task (d) A series of APN RA V workshops conducted by Force on Disaster Reduction and its Working Group NIWA on the analysis of the long-term trends on Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction. and variability, and the introduction of a climate The Working Group had agreed to compile disas- metadata information database; ter risk reduction tools that might be useful within (e) Several in-country workshops on climate predic- the Region for climate change adaptation. The tion services for both NMHSs and users, conducted Association requested that the Secretary-General GENERAL SUMMARY 11
promote and facilitate an enhanced systematic CONVENTION ON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY documentation of all weather- and climate-related 5.1.12 The Association expressed its apprecia- natural hazards for risk assessment and other needs, tion to the Secretary-General for the report on the noting that such an effort would be a valuable Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and noted complement to the documentation of disasters by that increasing attention was being paid by the CBD the disaster community. to several important weather- and climate-related issues concerning biological diversity. While biodiver- UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK sity issues generally did not reside within the direct CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE purview of NMHSs, the Association noted that NMHSs 5.1.9 The Association emphasized the need for close could provide signifi cant support to national bio- collaboration between WMO and its partners working diversity programmes with respect to the provision of on adaptation to climate change within the United current and potential threats from climate variability Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and change to fl ora and fauna. Such activities could (UNFCCC), especially the fi ve-year programme of work include the accurate documentation of climate vari- of the Subsidiary Body for Scientifi c and Technological ability and change at the highest space and time scales Advice (SBSTA) on impacts, vulnerability and adapta- possible, and support for data collection and archival tion to climate change. The Association requested that activities. The Association noted with pleasure the the Secretary-General continue to support NMHSs, Pacifi c Biodiversity Information Forum, convened in especially in developing countries and LDCs, in October of 2003 under the auspices of the Biodiversity contributing to national and regional efforts related Task Force of the Pacifi c Science Association. The to adaptation to climate change; to collaborate with Forum had developed biodiversity information initia- other international organizations and United Nations tives, one of which was a complete, scientifi cally sound agencies that addressed adaptation to climate change Pacifi c knowledge database, electronically accessible issues; and to conduct side events at meetings of to all for decision-making. Its membership included the UNFCCC Parties, jointly with other bodies and organizations throughout the WMO RA V area. programmes as appropriate. WORLD CLIMATE IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND RESPONSE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGIES PROGRAMME 5.1.10 The Association noted the excellent pres- 5.1.13 The Association recognized the importance entation made at the Working Group on Climate of close cooperation between WMO and the United Matters meeting by Mr D. Wratt from the NIWA (an Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) within active participant in IPCC activities for 16 years) on the World Climate Impact Assessment and Response the background, purpose and structure of IPCC and Strategies Programme (WCIRP). It further noted that the involvement of RA V experts in the IPCC Bureau the link to the WCIRP web page on the WCP homepage and plenary meetings. He had presented a summary had been activated in a joint activity between the of the Panel’s activities which were mostly focused on Atmosphere and Desertifi cation Conventions Unit of the preparation of the Fourth Assessment Report and UNEP and WCP of WMO. The Association urged its a summary of the upcoming issues and activities in Members to explore and recommend practical oppor- which RA V Members were taking part. The Association tunities for cooperation among NMHSs and national, encouraged all Members to be more proactive in IPCC, UNEP-related bodies. UNFCCC and other climate-related activities, including providing country review comments on draft reports, THIRD WORLD CLIMATE CONFERENCE and requested WMO to provide RA V Members with 5.1.14 The Association noted that the fi fty-seventh the names and addresses of IPCC focal points and the session of the Executive Council had requested the names and addresses of IPCC participants from RA V Secretary-General to establish a provisional organizing countries. committee for the third World Climate Conference. The Association noted that the organizing Committee UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION TO had held two meetings and would submit its report to COMBAT DESERTIFICATION the fi fty-eighth session of the Executive Council for 5.1.11 The Association noted WMO activities further guidance. With clear objectives, deliverables on desertifi cation and urged the NMHSs of RA V and suffi cient funding, the Association supported Members to support the implementation of specifi c the organization of the Conference. To meet funding United Nations Convention to Combat Desertifi cation needs, the Association urged the establishment of a (UNCCD) activities dealing with issues related to mechanism that would ensure that suffi cient funds deforestation and general land degradation, including were available to hold the Conference and that saltwater intrusion and inundation from sea level rise, resource mobilization activities were coordinated. all of which were areas of particular concern to the Region. The Association noted that WMO, in collab- 5.2 WORLD CLIMATE DATA AND MONITORING oration with UNCCD, was planning to organize an PROGRAMME (agenda item 5.2) international workshop on climate and land degrada- 5.2.1 The Association noted the good progress tion later in 2006. made in various aspects of World Climate Data and 12 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
Monitoring Programme (WCDMP) activities in the Climate Watches. The Expert Team had held a meeting Region. Through CCl, experts in the Region had made in Brazil to fi nalize the Guidelines on Climate Watches valuable contributions to the three highest prior- (WMO/TD-No. 118x, WCDMP-No. 58) and recom- ity projects within the programme: climate system mend its publication in all WMO offi cial languages. monitoring, data rescue and digitization, and climate 5.2.7 The Association concurred with the Expert database management. Team’s conclusions that NMHSs retained exclusive 5.2.2 The Association noted the urgency associated responsibility for the issuance of climate warnings and with each of the projects: advisories for their countries and territories, as well as (a) Coordinated climate system monitoring was for meteorological warnings. needed to raise risk awareness, for all time period planning; the Association noted the contribution CLIMATE ANALYSIS AND MONITORING TECHNIQUES of RA V Members in providing input to the WMO (INCLUDING CLIMATE CHANGE DETECTION) Statement on the Status of the Global Climate in 5.2.8 The Association expressed its support 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005; towards the activities of the CCl/Climate Variability (b) Data rescue activities must prevent the irrevers- and Predictability (CLIVAR) Expert Team on Climate ible loss to science and society of historical climate Change Detection, Monitoring and Indices. It noted data sets, by helping NMHSs to make computerized with appreciation the Expert Team’s plans to develop records of their own climate data holdings, and to indices of climate change and variability with empha- fi nd and record the data held in other data sets; sis on daily to seasonal extremes, and standardized (c) Support activities in climate database management software packages; and to study additional indices and were urgently needed to ensure that national their application as input data to models and homo- climate databases could provide the high-quality geneity issues. It urged WMO Members to provide historical data, including the rescued data, daily data records from all CLIMAT and CLIMAT TEMP needed for the authoritative climate assessments stations to the NOAA National Climatic Data Center produced through climate system monitoring. (NCDC) in order to build the data sets needed for the calculation of indices. OBSERVING REQUIREMENTS AND 5.2.9 The Association endorsed the Expert Team’s STANDARDS FOR CLIMATE intention to provide guidance for NMHSs, to develop 5.2.3 The Association expressed its appreciation software to calculate indices in support of the IPCC to WCDMP for its efforts with CCl to develop the process, and to promote the organization of training Guidelines on Climate Observation Networks and Systems workshops and the use of results in the WMO World (WMO/TD-No. 1185, WCDMP-No. 52). The Guidelines Climate System Monitoring Programme. It noted with series provided information on how to organize and appreciation the workshops planned for all WMO implement climate services. Regions to fi ll gaps in the climate data sets. 5.2.4 The Association noted with appreciation 5.2.10 The Association welcomed the various actions the collaboration between WCP and GCOS, funded undertaken in the Region by the APN and noted with by the United States, to produce climate reporting satisfaction the organization of the third Workshop software to encode and decode CLIMAT and CLIMAT on Climate Variability and Trends in Oceania, held TEMP messages and requested that training seminars in Auckland (New Zealand) in December 2003, be organized on CLIMAT and CLIMAT TEMP reporting which had made a signifi cant contribution towards similar to those organized in other Regions. providing new methods and techniques for capacity- 5.2.5 The Association noted that the third building, and to develop a database to document and International Conference on Experiences with store metadata in Oceanic countries, especially the Automatic Weather Stations had been held success- provision of training and software to participants fully in Torremolinos (Spain) in February 2003, and as a practical step for documenting, understanding, appreciated that Mr N. Plummer from BOM, and as anticipating and responding to climate change and CCl OPAG 1 chairperson, had participated in and variability in the Region. contributed to the Conference. It also noted the organ- ization of the fourth Conference to be held in Portugal CLIMATE SYSTEM MONITORING in May 2006. The Association noted with satisfaction 5.2.11 The Association noted with satisfaction the that WCDMP/OPAG 1 had completed and revised a signifi cant results that had been achieved in climate technical document on the decision factors relating system monitoring. The seventh edition of the Global to automated versus manual surface meteorological Climate System Review (WMO-No. 950) (June 1996– observations. The document would be published and December 2001), published in 2003, assessed the disseminated in the course of 2006 and would help in climate variations across the globe for the entire cycle guiding Members towards optimal decisions in AWS of the El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO), from matters. neutral conditions through the most intense El Niño event of the twentieth century, to the establishment CLIMATE WATCHES of La Niña conditions. The WMO Statement on the 5.2.6 The Association noted with appreciation the Status of the Global Climate documented each year’s work of the CCl Expert Team to Develop Guidance on anomalies and their global impacts. GENERAL SUMMARY 13
5.2.12 The Association noted with interest the 5.2.19 The Association noted that the Geographical collaboration of a number of the Region’s experts with Information System (GIS) was becoming more impor- the NCDC to produce a 2003 and 2004 global climate tant to climate-related matters and an excellent way to review, published in the June 2005 issue of the Bulletin present graphical data. Disaster management agencies of the American Meteorological Society, and welcomed and other sectors were using GIS to correlate data fi elds the fourteenth session of CCl’s recommendation to (location of roads, schools, hospitals, streams, water extend the geographical coverage of the article and pipes, electrical lines, and so on), locate possible fl ood to involve WMO in selecting authors from various areas, determine impacts in fl ooded areas, plot brush Regions. fi res, display tropical cyclone forecasts and possible 5.2.13 The Association was pleased to note impacts, map areas suitable for different agricultural that, since 2003, the WMO Statements on the uses, determine coastal erosion and carry out hazard Status of the Global Climate (WMO-No. 966 and mapping. The Association expressed its appreciation WMO-No. 983), were produced in English, French, to the South Pacifi c Applied Geoscience Commission Russian and Spanish and printed and distributed (SOPAC) for having provided map server GIS software during World Meteorological Day celebrations. to the water resource agencies in eight South Pacifi c 5.2.14 The Association welcomed and praised the countries. It was anticipated that SOPAC would soon high value of the ongoing South Pacifi c Sea Level and receive funding from the European Union’s ninth Climate Monitoring Project, initiated in response Economic Development Fund to place map servers in to the concerns of Pacifi c island countries’ leaders six additional small island countries. NMHSs antici- over the potential impact of climate change and sea pated forming partnerships with their national water level rise in Pacifi c island countries, as a long-term resource agencies for the use of GIS. The Association project which monitored sea level at 11 sites in the expressed its appreciation to WMO for having Pacifi c. The Association thanked the BOM National conducted a roving seminar on GIS in 2000. Tidal Centre for managing the project under the Australian Agency for International Development DATA RESCUE, DIGITIZATION AND DATA EXCHANGE (AusAID) project funding (see http://www.pacifi csea- 5.2.20 The Association expressed its appreciation to level.org/). Australia, New Zealand and the United States for their 5.2.15 The Association appreciated the importance efforts in undertaking data rescue activities. Australia of the issue of monthly climate bulletins such as the was working with six Pacifi c island countries (Papua Island Climate Update, the South Pacifi c Seasonal New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Vanuatu, Fiji Outlook and the Pacifi c ENSO Applications Center and Kiribati), and New Zealand, with some fund- (PEAC) Newsletter and, in particular, their timeliness ing from the United States, was working with other and content and website design. The Association urged Pacifi c island countries. The Association noted that the continued production and wide dissemination of there was a long-term sustainability requirement of those publications. It also noted that the fourteenth data rescue efforts, so that problems would not arise session of CCl had requested Members to report again in fi ve to 10 years, and some Members expressed signifi cant weather and climate events regularly and concern regarding data ownership and access after promptly as a contribution to the WMO Statement on historical data had been digitized. The Association the Status of the Global Climate. endorsed a recommendation from the RA V Data Management Workshop held in Melbourne (Australia) DATA SETS AND METADATA in November/December 2004 to merge the project(s) 5.2.16 The Association noted with satisfaction the for the Archival Climate History Survey Project with contribution of several NMHSs in providing data to those for climate data rescue, and requested the the NCDC for the preparation of the 1991–2000 world Working Group on Climate-related Matters to follow records series, and thanked the Malaysian NMHS for up on that recommendation. collecting the data. 5.2.17 The Association expressed appreciation for the CLIMATE DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS completion of the Guidelines on Climate Metadata and 5.2.21 The Association noted with satisfaction the Homogenization (WMO/TD-No. 1236, WCDMP-No. 53). progress made in implementing new climate database 5.2.18 The Association acknowledged that there management systems and appreciated in particular had been extensive discussion of automated weather the holding of the RA V Data Management Workshop systems in many WMO and non-WMO forums. in Melbourne (Australia) in 2004, and the subse- However, automatic weather system issues, such as quent CLIMSOFT Training Workshop for Small Island the quality of sensors and data collected, climate data States in the Pacifi c Region held in Nadi (Fiji) from continuity, involvement of observers, initial costs and 19 September to 7 October 2005. The Association the required maintenance, continued to cause major expressed its appreciation to the experts from RA I problems for most of the small Pacifi c island countries. countries for having provided their time and expertise The eleventh Regional Meteorological Service Directors at the CLIMSOFT Workshop, highlighting it as a very meeting in New Caledonia in July 2006 would hold a successful example of South-South cooperation. It also workshop on the use of automated weather systems thanked the United Kingdom for having supported the in the Region. Fiji Workshop by providing, through the Voluntary 14 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
Cooperation Programme (VCP), the funding needed and publication of the regular WMO El Niño and La for its organization and the provision of laptops to run Niña Updates, and urged continued support for that the software at participants’ home institutions. important initiative. 5.2.22 The Association was pleased to learn that 5.3.5 The Association noted the progress achieved RA V Members were very active in the data manage- in the implementation of the Island Climate ment area and that most Members had adopted Update (ICU), which was coordinated and funded CLIMSOFT as their data management software. The by New Zealand. It urged Pacifi c islands’ and terri- Association appreciated that CLIMSOFT was targeted tories’ NMHSs, France, the United States, Australia, at small- to medium-scale databases, but could also be regional and international partners, such as SOPAC, scaled upwards and had many advantages for small the Secretariat of the Pacifi c Regional Environment Pacifi c island countries. In that respect, the Association Programme (SPREP), the International Research suggested that Members consider adopting CLIMSOFT Institute for Climate and Society (IRI) and other GPCs and welcomed the offer made by Australia and New to continue to support and improve the ICU, which Zealand to provide support with the installation and had led to signifi cant progress in providing climate maintenance of the software in the Region. information and prediction services to small islands 5.2.23 The Association noted with appreciation in the South-West Pacifi c. the accomplishment of the WCDMP Guidelines on 5.3.6 Furthermore, the Association noted the activ- Climate Database Management and looked forward to ities of PEAC in Hawaii, in terms of the production its publication and dissemination to Members. of the PEAC quarterly Pacifi c ENSO Update, which provided seasonal climate forecasts and other climate 5.3 WORLD CLIMATE APPLICATIONS AND services for United States-affi liated Pacifi c islands and SERVICES PROGRAMME, INCLUDING territories and urged the United States to continue to CLIMATE INFORMATION AND PREDICTION support those activities. SERVICES IN REGION V (agenda item 5.3) 5.3.7 The Association noted that at that time there 5.3.1 The Association noted the ongoing support was a great deal of activity in the areas of climate infor- provided by the World Climate Applications and mation and prediction services including the WMO Services Programme (WCASP) and the Climate CLIPS project; the Australian PI-CPP; the Pacifi c Islands Information and Prediction Services (CLIPS) to further GCOS (PI-GCOS); the New Zealand led-ICU; PEAC of enhance the development and application of climate the United States; monthly climate forecast coordi- information and prediction services within the Region nation teleconferences led by NIWA and involving through the work of the Executive Council and BOM, NOAA in Honolulu, NOAA’s Climate Prediction technical commissions, in particular CCl, and noted Center (CPC), the IRI, Fiji, French Polynesia, New the active participation of its Members in the work of Caledonia, Samoa and others. Because of those activi- the Commission during the thirteenth intersessional ties, the climate information and prediction services period. in the RA V area had improved and continued to make 5.3.2 The Association noted the excellent response progress. of Members of the Association to general summary para- 5.3.8 The Association noted that, in 2005, the graph 5.3.3 of the Abridged Final Report with Resolutions CCl OPAG 3 on CLIPS had established a new Expert of the Thirteenth Session of Regional Association V (South- Team on El Niño and La Niña that was chaired by West Pacifi c) (WMO-No. 944), in quickly appointing Mr L. Maitrepierre (New Caledonia). Other RA V national CLIPS Focal Points within Members’ Services Members of that Expert Team were from Fiji, New to further the development of the CLIPS concept and Zealand and the United States. to enhance coordination of climate information and 5.3.9 The Association noted that some RA V NMHSs services within the Region. Noting the importance of were tailoring climate products and information to the global network of CLIPS Focal Points for sharing the specifi c needs of their national customers; briefi ng information and developing skills, Members agreed to their national customers on large-scale current condi- continue to support and develop their CLIPS activi- tions, expected outlooks and predictions; providing ties. Members urged WMO to investigate the training information on climate change and its impacts and needs of the Region for CLIPS activities. on greenhouse gases, renewable energy, air quality, 5.3.3 The Association noted the work of the sea level rise, impacts on health, and so forth; and RA V Task Team on the Provision of Seasonal to Inter- participating in the monthly Pacifi c climate coordina- annual Forecasts and Regional Climate Services, and tion teleconferences led by NIWA with BOM, NOAA the leadership demonstrated by the co-chairpersons. in Honolulu, NOAA CPC, IRI, French Polynesia, Fiji, The Association agreed to not replace Resolution 6 Samoa and other South Pacifi c island countries. The (XIII-RA V), which was no longer in force. The Association urged the continuation of that coordi- Association further noted that the RA V Working Group nation because it assisted in resolving differences in on Climate Matters had met in Singapore from 7 to climate forecasts for the Pacifi c. 10 February 2006. 5.3.10 The Association noted that Indonesia had 5.3.4 The Association noted the ongoing support recently developed a climate forecast application of Australia, France, New Zealand, the United programme which included a dissemination activ- Kingdom and the United States for the preparation ity called the Climate Field School. The programme GENERAL SUMMARY 15 was aimed at providing client-oriented climate infor- 5.3.13 The Association further noted that some mation services on district/local scales. A number of Members of the Association were not yet members international institutions such as the Asian Disaster of CCl, and urged non-members to join the Preparedness Center, IRI and others had already Commission. committed themselves to getting involved in the 5.3.14 The Association commended the leading programme. The Association noted with appreciation role that Australia was playing in supporting and that Indonesia welcomed the involvement of partici- organizing the WMO Conference on Living with pants from RA V Member countries in training as well Climate Variability and Change: Understanding the as in sharing their experiences of various aspects related Uncertainties and Managing the Risks, to be held to climate forecast dissemination for relevant applica- in Espoo (Finland) from 17 to 21 July 2006. The tions within the framework of the programme. Conference would contribute to the establishment of 5.3.11 The Association noted the successful comple- an operable agenda for adaptation to climate variabil- tion of the fi rst phase of the AusAID/BOM PI-CPP ity and change. under the Australian–United States Climate Action Partnership. The project, together with other similar 5.4 GLOBAL CLIMATE OBSERVING but complementary regional climate projects in the SYSTEM (agenda item 5.4) South-West Pacifi c region, such as the PEAC quar- 5.4.1 The Association welcomed the completion, terly Pacifi c ENSO Update and the ICU, had greatly under GCOS leadership, of the Second Report on the enhanced the capability in the Region to manage risks Adequacy of the Global Observing Systems for Climate in in climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture, fi sher- Support of the UNFCCC (WMO/TD-No. 1143, GCOS-82) ies, water resources, energy, tourism, health and the (April 2003) and the subsequent Implementation Plan environment; to preserve and digitize historical mete- for the Global Observing System for Climate in Support of orological records; and to deliver climate information the UNFCCC (WMO/TD-No. 1219, GCOS-92) (October and prediction services to users through strengthening 2004). It noted that those publications had been devel- the in-country modelling capability of NMHSs. The oped in collaboration with the broad climate science Association was pleased that the AusAID/BOM Project community and with other observing system initia- would have a second phase and urged RA V Members tives such as the recently established Group on Earth and relevant development and regional partners to Observations (GEO). The Association encouraged provide the necessary fi nancial resources required for Members to implement the actions recommended in the continuation of the project. the Plan to the greatest extent possible. 5.3.12 The Association endorsed the decisions 5.4.2 The Association welcomed the decisions made by CCl at its fourteenth session, held from 3 to adopted by the UNFCCC Conference of the Parties 10 November 2005 in Beijing (China), including the (COP) and its SBSTA in support of global observing appointment of Australia as a regional member of systems for climate, particularly those related to the the CCl Management Group, and the division of the Second Adequacy Report and the Implementation former OPAG 3 on Climate Applications, Information Plan. It noted that the COP had invited GCOS to and Prediction Services into a new OPAG 3 on CLIPS, provide future sessions with information on how the and a new OPAG 4 on Climate Applications and actions identifi ed in the Plan were being implemented, Services. The new OPAG 3 would assist Members in and that ensuring such implementation was a major further identifying/prioritizing research needs for priority for GCOS in the coming years. The Association climate prediction, in developing best practices for noted that the most recent session of SBSTA (SBSTA-23, operational climate services, understanding and Montreal, November/December 2005) had endorsed a communicating on El Niño and La Niña and in liais- number of action proposals concerning GCOS and its ing with the Commission for Hydrology (CHy) and partners that would drive much of the GCOS agenda the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology (CAgM) in the immediate future. on water- and agriculture-related matters. The new 5.4.3 The Association welcomed the progress OPAG 4 would focus on applications and services for made by the GCOS Regional Workshop Programme, the health, energy and tourism sectors, and for urban launched in 2000 following the request made by and building climatology. The Association noted that the COP in decision 5/CP.5. It recalled that the fi rst experts from Australia, Fiji, France, New Caledonia, regional workshop for the member states of the New Zealand and the United States had been selected Pacifi c islands had been hosted by SPREP in Samoa in to serve under various OPAGs and expert teams under August 2000, and had led to the development of the the new CCl structure, and urged other Members Pacifi c Island GCOS Action Plan and the establish- to participate in the work of the Commission, if ment of the PI-GCOS in the Region. The Association requested. Noting the importance of CLIPS as one expressed its appreciation to SPREP for hosting the of the main vehicles in the integration of all aspects PI-GCOS programme, to the primary RA V PI-GCOS of climate, from observations to long-range predic- sponsors from Australia, New Zealand and the United tions and research into an end-to-end concept, the States, and to the other Pacifi c island Members for Association urged that all WMO expert teams and the enthusiastically embracing the programme. The regional Members and agencies work closely together Association encouraged Members to continue their to improve coordination and cooperation. support for PI-GCOS and the implementation of the 16 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
Action Plan. The Association also noted the GCOS addressing priority improvements in observing systems Regional Workshop for East and South-East Asia held for climate, especially in developing countries. in Singapore in September 2002 which had produced a Regional Action Plan available on the WMO GCOS 5.5 WORLD CLIMATE RESEARCH website. PROGRAMME (agenda item 5.5) 5.4.4 The Association welcomed the improving 5.5.1 The Association was informed of the World performance of the GCOS Surface Network (GSN) Climate Research Programme (WCRP) activities carried and the GCOS Upper-Air Network (GUAN) in the out during the intersessional period. It acknowledged Region and expressed its appreciation to the Members with appreciation that signifi cant progress had been involved. It noted that nearly 80 per cent of expected achieved not only in global issues but also in regional GSN reports were now being received via the GTS, and studies of importance to the Association, such as the that historical data for most of the stations were now ozone hole in the Southern hemisphere, seasonal available in the GCOS archive. The Association also predictability of precipitation over the maritime noted the improvements in GUAN station perform- continent, and operational implementation of long- ance in the Region, due in large part to the efforts term El Niño forecasting. The Association agreed that, being carried out under the PI-GCOS and United States in the 25 years since it had been established, WCRP GCOS programmes, and urged Members to continue had made fundamental contributions to the scientifi c their efforts to improve both GSN and GUAN station understanding of the physical climate system and performance. climate processes needed to determine to what extent 5.4.5 The Association was informed that a climate could be predicted and the extent of human procedure existed for countries to propose changes to infl uence on climate. The Association was informed the GSN and GUAN station confi gurations which was of and endorsed the new WCRP Strategic Framework determined by the Atmospheric Observation Panel for 2005–2015: the Coordinated Observation and for Climate (AOPC). In that regard, the Association Prediction of the Earth System (COPES), and its aim to was informed that if a WMO Member wished to facilitate analysis and prediction of Earth system vari- request changing or adding a GSN or GUAN station, ability and change for use in an increasing range of it needed to send a request to the GCOS Secretariat at practical applications of direct relevance, benefi t and WMO detailing the proposed changes to the GCOS value to society. The Association was pleased to note station confi guration. The requests were then sent that WCRP’s new Strategic Framework proposed close to AOPC for consideration by its Advisory Group collaboration with the Observing System Research and on GSN/GUAN. Realizing that that procedure was Predictability Experiment (THORPEX). The proposed not available to many Members, the Association collaboration on the phenomenon of tropical convec- requested the GCOS Secretariat to advertise it more tive organization affecting one- to two-week weather effectively among Members. The AOPC selected GCOS prediction (e.g. the Madden-Julian Oscillation, diur- network sites on the basis of a number of scientifi c nal cycle of convection) was of particular interest to requirements, including geographic spacing, and on the Region. The Association was also pleased to note the availability, extent and quality of the station’s the joint efforts of WCRP and THORPEX to prepare a historical data. joint white paper on the great challenge of establish- 5.4.6 The Association noted with appreciation that ing a multinational coordinated research initiative to BOM had agreed to become a CBS Lead Centre for develop next-generation unifi ed models for the predic- GCOS data for the South-West Pacifi c region, thereby tion of weather and climate. joining the Islamic Republic of Iran Meteorological 5.5.2 The Association was pleased to note that Organization, the Direction de la Météorologie Nationale its Members continued to participate actively in of Morocco, JMA and the United States NCDC in all components of WCRP, including observational performing that vital activity to assist in improv- projects, and process and modelling studies. Of special ing the overall performance of the GSN and GUAN interest to the Region was research on monsoons in networks. It noted that additional Lead Centres were the Asian-Australian sector, commencement of the being sought for other regions to reduce the burden Murray-Darling Basin Water Budget Project as one on individual centres to improve the performance of the Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment of the GCOS Surface and Upper-Air Networks on the (GEWEX) Continental-Scale Experiments, and the global scale. Stratospheric Processes and their Role in Climate 5.4.7 The Association highly commended its (SPARC) Darwin Area Wave Experiment. Members, in particular small island States, for their dedication to climate observations, and noted with 6. ATMOSPHERIC RESEARCH AND satisfaction that the GCOS partnership had been ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME very successful in the region, with a number of GCOS — REGIONAL ASPECTS (agenda item 6) projects being well implemented. The Association also 6.0 The Association noted the activities that had noted that GCOS would be a major contribution to taken place within the Atmospheric Research and GEOSS. Environment Programme (AREP) over the past four 5.4.8 The Association welcomed the establish- years, and that its Members had played an active part ment of the GCOS Cooperation Mechanism, aimed at in many of them. GENERAL SUMMARY 17
6.1 GLOBAL ATMOSPHERE WATCH, activities and was published on the GAW website INCLUDING SUPPORT TO OZONE AND (WMO/TD-No. 1302, GAW-165) together with all the OTHER ENVIRONMENT-ORIENTED presentations given. The Association agreed that such CONVENTIONS (agenda item 6.1) a quadrennial meeting was of benefi t to GAW and 6.1.1 The Global Atmosphere Watch (GAW) recommended that the Region V GAW Rapporteur programme focused on the role of atmospheric chem- play an active role in assisting the Secretariat to include istry in global change. Its mission was threefold: (a) regional activities. In that regard, the Association the systematic monitoring of atmospheric chemical expressed its appreciation to its Rapporteur on composition and related physical parameters on a the Global Atmosphere Watch, Mr H. Haryanto global to regional scale; (b) analysis and assessment (Indonesia), for a thorough and comprehensive report in support of environmental conventions and future on GAW activities in the Region. policy development; and (c) the development of a 6.1.4 The Association noted the emphasis that predictive capability for future atmospheric states. The GAW placed on calibration and quality assurance as a Association thanked the 14 countries that, according to key product and service. Countries outside the Region the GAW Station Information System (GAWSIS), main- which maintained Central Calibration Laboratories tained 55 air chemistry observatories including four hosting GAW world reference standards for greenhouse GAW global stations in the Region. The Association gases (United States/NOAA), ozone (Canada, United congratulated Australia on the thirtieth anniversary States, Germany and the Russian Federation) and of the GAW global observatory at Cape Grim and the optical depth/radiation (Switzerland) were thanked outstanding scientifi c contribution made in docu- for their assistance to Members within the Region. menting and understanding atmospheric composition Furthermore, GAW calibration centres in Japan and changes in the Southern hemisphere. It also thanked Australia were acknowledged for their quality assur- Malaysia for the establishment of the twenty-fourth ance assistance. The Association thanked the RIC in GAW global observatory at Danum Valley. Members Melbourne (Australia) for having hosted the Region V were asked to verify and regularly update the descrip- Dobson ozone spectrophotometer intercomparison in tive information on their GAW monitoring activities January/February 2006. That was an important contri- described in GAWSIS (www.wmo.ch/web/arep/gaw/ bution to the maintenance of data quality, which was gaw_home.html). needed for ozone trend studies and for verifying the 6.1.2 The Association expressed its satisfaction effectiveness of halocarbon emission controls enacted with the thorough and comprehensive report of its under the Vienna Convention for the Protection of Atmospheric Ozone Rapporteur, Mr A. Downey, and the Ozone Layer. accepted the recommendation that WMO continue 6.1.5 Recognizing the importance of aerosol to support intercomparisons between the WMO observations to climate, weather and water resource standard Dobson and Brewer instruments and new issues, the Association urged Members of the Region instruments under development. The Association also to support the GAW aerosol monitoring programme encouraged Members with such instruments to partic- and its World Optical Depth Research and Calibration ipate in the intercomparison activities. Consistent Centre in Switzerland in developing a central with the recommendations of the fourteenth session calibration facility for a global aerosol optical depth of the Commission for Atmospheric Sciences (CAS) network to complement those already existing for (see the Abridged Final Report with Resolutions and ozone and greenhouse gases. Members of the Region Recommendations of the Fourteenth Session of the had participated in the WMO/GAW Experts Workshop Commission for Atmospheric Sciences (WMO-No. 1002), on a Global Surface-based Network for Long-term general summary paragraph 12.10), the Association Observations of Column Aerosol Optical Properties appointed a single rapporteur to cover all of the GAW from 8 to 10 March 2004 in Davos (Switzerland) programme activities (including ozone) in the Region (WMO/TD-No. 1287, GAW-162), which had laid and to report to the chairperson of the CAS OPAG on the ground work for a WMO coordinated global Environmental Pollution and Atmospheric Chemistry. network of aerosol observations needed for a better The Association adopted Resolution 8 (XIV-RA V). understanding of weather, climate change and the 6.1.3 The Association noted that its Members had effects of pollution on precipitation. The Association participated actively in the GAW 2005 Workshop held thanked the WMO GAW for the ESCAP/WMO project in March 2005 at WMO Headquarters in Geneva. on regional haze: Support to the Implementation of Eighty-three representatives from 23 countries had met the Regional Haze Action Plan of ASEAN Member to present their activities, exchange experience, learn Countries. Within the project, instruments for aerosol how participation in GAW could assist them, hear measurements had been obtained with the funding about and meet representatives of 13 GAW partner kindly provided by Australia. The instruments had programmes (e.g. GCOS, the International Geosphere- been placed in Malaysia and Indonesia close to the Biosphere Programme (IGBP), the Cooperative sources and at locations suitable for studying the Programme for Monitoring and Evaluation of the impacts of regionally dispersed smoke. The project Long-range Transmission of Air Pollutants in Europe included a study on the modelling of aerosol (EMEP), SPARC) and suggest ways to develop and transport within the 1997–1998 South-East Asian improve GAW. The report highlighted Members’ haze event region as well as its aftermath. It also 18 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
served to strengthen the ASMC’s capacities in terms 6.2 WORLD WEATHER RESEARCH PROGRAMME, of modelling activities in the Region. INCLUDING THORPEX (agenda item 6.2) 6.1.6 There were at that time fi ve GAW World 6.2.1 The Association noted with satisfaction the Data Centres (WDCs), one each for greenhouse high level of interest shown by its Members in the gases (Japan), total ozone and ultraviolet (UV) activities of the World Weather Research Programme (Canada), aerosols (European Commission, Italy), (WWRP). Members in the Region had hosted and precipitation chemistry (United States) and solar participated in meetings and workshops organized radiation (Russian Federation). Since 2002, manag- under WWRP. Members were urged to continue their ers of WDCs and the head of GAWSIS had met twice support to the Programme and CBS. to coordinate and harmonize their work, including 6.2.2 The Association noted with satisfaction the in the area of common formats for input and output great interest of its Members in the new WWRP compo- data, data storage software and hardware, data nent programme THORPEX: Global Atmospheric duplication between the data centres, quality assur- Research Programme, established by Congress in May ance/fl agging methods, data distribution and user 2003. THORPEX was led by the CAS International access. The Association encouraged its Members to Core Steering Committee (ICSC) in cooperation work with the WDCs to promptly submit new obser- with the CAS Joint Scientifi c Committee for WWRP, vations, and to consider improvements to quality the joint JSC/CAS Working Group on Numerical assurance/fl agging methods. It noted that an essen- Experimentation and CBS. tial part of any data submission was calibration 6.2.3 The Association noted with appreciation information linking the observations to the WMO that in 2003 the THORPEX International Science World Reference Standard. Plan had been prepared, and the International 6.1.7 The Association emphasized that the Implementation Plan had been developed (detailed training and education needs in developing coun- information is published on the website: www.wmo. tries should continue to be a high priority for int/thorpex) with contributions from the Region and the GAW programme. In that connection, many in collaboration with the WWW, WCRP, the WMO GAW centres and collaborating national organiza- Space Programme, as well as other relevant WMO tions were commended for their substantial efforts Programmes and international organizations and in in providing training to GAW station personnel connection with GEO and International Polar Year from developing countries. Particular appreciation initiatives. The Association urged Members to favour was expressed to the Government of Germany for the engagement of NMHSs (operational forecast and having established the GAW Training and Education research entities and consumers of their products Centre (GAWTEC), and to WMO for having included and services) and national academic institutions in 15 people from the Region in its two-week techni- THORPEX research, experiments and demonstration cal training courses. In addition, the Association projects and especially welcomed the involvement of noted that Member training sessions had been developing countries. organized at GAW collaborating centres such as the 6.2.4 The Association further noted that the NOAA/Global Monitoring Division (United States), THORPEX International Programme Offi ce (IPO) the Solar and Ozone Observatory (Czech Republic), had been established at the WMO Secretariat, as well the Meteorological Service of Canada, JMA and the as the THORPEX Trust Fund to support the offi ce Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Testing and and programme activities. The Association urged all Research. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology Members to take an active part in the implementation Training Centre had been a key element of the of THORPEX and to support the IPO. ESCAP/WMO project on regional haze. A technical 6.2.5 The THORPEX Planning Meeting for workshop for aerosol measurements had been held Southern Hemisphere countries had been organ- in Kuala Lumpur and training had also provided in ized from 28 to 29 November 2005 in Melbourne Australia. (Australia), and more than 20 scientists had partici- 6.1.8 The Association noted that there was an pated in the meeting who had come from Australia, ongoing initiative conducted by the GAW Precipitation New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Brazil, Chile, South Chemistry Programme to establish a partnership with Africa, as well as Canada, Germany, the United the regional precipitation chemistry network, namely Kingdom and the United States. the Acid Deposition Monitoring Network in East Asia 6.2.6 The Southern Hemisphere Science Plan of which the RA V countries Indonesia, Malaysia and for THORPEX, developed with contributions from the Philippines were members. The initiative had been Australia, New Zealand, South America, South Africa established in order to improve GAW geographical and the Pacifi c islands, had been discussed and data coverage and to provide products to validate fi nalized. atmospheric chemical transport models and to assess 6.2.7 The WWRP/THORPEX Scientifi c Conference impacts of precipitation chemistry. Members also on Improving the Global Predictability of High Impact encouraged that partnership and urged GAW station Weather, held in Cape Town (South Africa) from managers to consult with modellers in order to identify 13 to 15 February 2006, had concluded with an agree- which measurements were most urgently required for ment on the formation of the Southern Hemisphere model validation. Regional Committee. GENERAL SUMMARY 19
6.2.8 The Association noted that the second 6.4 PROGRAMME ON PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY THORPEX International Science Symposium would be OF CLOUDS AND WEATHER MODIFICATION held in Germany in December 2006. RESEARCH (agenda item 6.4) 6.2.9 Recognizing the importance and benefi ts 6.4.1 The Association noted the outcomes of of THORPEX research to all Members of the Region, the twenty-fi rst session of the CAS Working Group the Association agreed to establish and appoint on Physics and Chemistry of Clouds and Weather a Rapporteur on WWRP-THORPEX and adopted Modifi cation Research, held in May 2005 in Geneva. Resolution 9 (XIV-RA V). The Working Group had reviewed the relevant docu- ments, namely the WMO Statement on Weather 6.3 TROPICAL METEOROLOGY RESEARCH Modifi cation and the WMO Guidelines for the PROGRAMME (agenda item 6.3) Planning of Weather Modifi cation Activities, and had 6.3.1 Members of the Association continued also produced the Executive Summary of the WMO to show great interest in activities related to the Statement on Weather Modifi cation. As stated in the development of the Tropical Meteorology Research documents, the understanding of storm processes Programme (TMRP). Australia had successfully hosted was not yet suffi cient to predict with enough confi - the fi fth IWTC and the WMO/TMRP International dence the effects of seeding on clouds. However, new Workshop on Tropical and Extra-tropical Interactions, approaches, such as using advanced models, sophisti- incorporating the third International Workshop on cated measurement techniques, new experiments on Extra-tropical Transition (IWET), in December 2002 storm/cloud processes and evolution of precipitation, and December 2005, respectively. The Association could bring advances in hail suppression and precipi- urged its Members and all concerned to endeavour tation enhancement operations. The Association to implement the recommendations made by those appreciated the active participation of the RA V repre- workshops relevant to their activities. sentative in the Working Group. 6.3.2 The Association recognized that great 6.4.2 The Association noted with interest the challenges existed for improving the prediction of outcomes of several meetings, workshops and confer- tropical cyclone landfall, and welcomed the proposal ences within the Programme in support of studying of Members in the Region concerning the development the physics and chemistry of clouds and relevant appli- of an advanced tropical cyclone early warning system cations in weather modifi cation, parameterization in for the Philippines, as well as the efforts of the WMO/ weather forecasting models and better understanding TMRP International Workshop on Tropical and Extra- of the impacts of clouds on climate. tropical Interactions, incorporating the third IWET, to 6.4.3 The Association noted the establishment develop a scientifi c plan, which would focus on the of the WMO/International Union of Geodesy and extra-tropical transition of tropical cyclones in conjunc- Geophysics Science Assessment of Aerosol Effects tion with the Pacifi c THORPEX Regional Campaign on Precipitation and the International Aerosol- and the International Polar Year during 2008. Those Precipitation Science Assessment Group. At its meeting proposed projects would contribute to further improv- in November 2005, the Group had worked on fi naliz- ing safety and to reducing the economic losses of ing a peer-reviewed assessment report to be published countries affected by landfalling tropical cyclones. The by 2007. Association urged its Members to participate in and 6.4.4 The Association noted that the ninth contribute to the further planning and implementa- Scientifi c Conference on Weather Modifi cation would tion of those projects. The Association also encouraged be held in Turkey by 2007. members to support and keep abreast of research on the possible increase in frequency and strength of the most 7. APPLICATIONS OF METEOROLOGY intense tropical cyclones as a result of climate change. PROGRAMME — REGIONAL ASPECTS 6.3.3 Members of the Association also noted with (agenda item 7) appreciation the monsoon-related activities being carried out under TMRP. The Association expressed 7.1 PUBLIC WEATHER SERVICES its appreciation to the People’s Republic of China for PROGRAMME (agenda item 7.1) having hosted the seventh WMO Regional Workshop 7.1.1 The Association reiterated that the end result on Asian/African Monsoon Emphasizing Training of the provision of public weather services (PWS) to Aspects in Nanjing from 26 to 30 October 2004, as well the national community must be that of enhanced as the third International Workshop on Monsoons public safety and welfare. It highlighted the PWS (IWM) in Hangzhou from 2 to 6 November 2004. The Programme’s role in assisting Members to effectively Association also expressed its appreciation to Malaysia deliver quality products to ensure the protection of for having co-sponsored, with the International Panel life and people’s livelihood and contribute to sustain- on the East Asian Monsoon, the Symposium on Asian able development. In that connection, the Association Winter Monsoon, held in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) noted that the Programme’s activities in terms of from 4 to 7 April 2006. The Association also noted capacity-building, coordination with the media with pleasure the publication of the outcome of the and emergency managers, user focus, performance third IWM, which was a very useful reference for evaluation, keeping abreast of new technology and meteorologists in the Region. improving products and services were in keeping with 20 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V the recommendations of the thirteenth session of information for more cities to be posted on the WWIS RA V and the priorities identifi ed by the Region. website in order to increase its usefulness to the general 7.1.2 The Association recognized that the effec- public and other users, and to actively participate in the tive application of PWS to mitigate natural disasters WWIS and SWIC websites. presented many opportunities and challenges in 7.1.4 The Association welcomed the formation of taking advantage of technology and meeting rising the Expert Group on Public Education and Outreach community expectations. A particular challenge for under the PWS Programme with the aim of increasing WMO Members was to ensure that all the relevant the public’s understanding of the usefulness and limita- meteorological and related information was provided tions of weather forecasts and the impact of a particular in a way that enabled informed decisions and actions. hazard or series of hazards. Experts from NMHSs and The Association agreed that NMHSs needed to create the wider community were working to provide a collec- better public awareness of natural hazards and the asso- tion of existing education and public outreach materials ciated risks. In that way, NMHSs could move beyond from NMHSs in countries affected by natural hazards, providing early warnings of hazards to ensuring that which already produced such materials. Based on the the risks to society and the environment were better existing materials, the experts would prepare for distri- understood. The Association also encouraged NMHSs bution by WMO a set of generic educational materials to cooperate more closely with high-level decision to address decision-making authorities and the general makers in government, civil defence bodies and the public which could be adapted to different languages media emphasize the value of warnings, to enhance and cultures in different WMO Regions. The Association the effectiveness of and support for their efforts in requested that the results of the work of the Expert Group PWS, and to help emphasize principles such as the be made widely available to NMHSs in the Region. need for a single authoritative voice for public warn- 7.1.5 The Association noted that, through CBS, a ings. In that regard, the Association requested that the liaison had been established between THORPEX and PWS Programme continue its strategy of conducting the PWS Programme, and that the PWS Programme training activities, transferring knowledge, applying would closely collaborate with THORPEX in its technology and publishing guidelines on topics related social and economic applications tasks. In line with to NMHSs’ service delivery role. The Association asked encouraging NMHSs to focus on the fundamental the Secretary-General to give consideration to the principles of PWS in contributing to the safety of life translation of those guidelines into other languages to and poverty alleviation through reducing the effects allow them to be used more widely by all Members. of severe and high-impact weather on society, as given The Association also asked the Secretary-General to in the 6LTP, the Association welcomed the formation hold regional training workshops on PWS in support of the Task Force on Socio-Economic Applications of of disaster prevention and mitigation as part of the Public Weather Services to specifi cally assist Members strategy to assist Members in the all-round effort to in the evaluation and demonstration of the social, minimize the adverse effects of severe and high-impact environmental and economic benefi ts of their PWS to weather events. various user sectors in society through the preparation 7.1.3 The Association noted with satisfaction the of methods and guidance material. The Association success and popularity among the public and WMO was pleased that experts from RA V were contributing Members of the World Weather Information Service to the work of the Task Force and requested that the (WWIS) and the Severe Weather Information Centre outcome of the Task Force’s work be shared with the (SWIC) websites. By December 2005, WWIS had carried NMHSs of all Members in the Region. The Association forecasts for 1 076 cities from 1 110 Members, includ- expressed satisfaction that the establishment of the ing 17 from RA V, and climatological information for Task Force had been timely in order to contribute 1 112 cities from 157 Members. In addition to English, to the organization by WMO of the International the WWIS website existed in Arabic, Chinese and Conference on Secure and Sustainable Living: Social Portuguese, with the recent addition of a French version and Economic Benefi ts of Weather, Climate and Water for operational trial. Plans were under way for a Spanish Services, to be held in March 2007. version in the near future. The Association further noted 7.1.6 The Association noted the importance of the that, with the agreement of the thirteenth session of CBS, verifi cation of warnings and forecasts as well as service the WWIS and SWIC websites had moved from a pilot evaluation, noting that user-based service assessment to operational phase and had become an operational was required as input to product/service upgrades and component of the PWS Programme, to be maintained the development of new products and services. In by the current WWIS and SWIC host Members, namely that regard, the Association encouraged its Members China; Hong Kong, China; Macao, China and Oman. to develop and implement verifi cation schemes and The SWIC website provided a centralized source for to use verifi cation statistics to help improve the qual- media access to offi cial tropical cyclone warnings and ity of forecasts. It requested the Secretary-General to information issued by NMSs. The project had global continue to provide assistance in that area to those coverage with 20 participating NMSs, including nine Members requiring such assistance. from RA V, and had expanded to include information 7.1.7 The Association expressed its apprecia- on rainstorms and heavy snowfall from all Regions. The tion to Australia and Brunei Darussalam for having Association urged its Members to continue to contribute hosted the following events: the biennial PWS GENERAL SUMMARY 21 training workshops for Southern hemisphere SIDS, (i) Supported the initiative taken to organ- held for Members from RA V and RA I at BOM head- ize the workshop in collaboration with the quarters in Melbourne in 2002 and 2005, respectively; Food and Agriculture Organization of the and the RA V/RA II Regional Training Seminar on Data United Nations (FAO) and the Philippine Processing and Forecasting Systems in Improvement Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical of Public Weather Services, held in Brunei Darussalam Services Administration (PAGASA); for the staff of NMSs from RA V and RA II in September (ii) Supported the publication of the proceed- 2003. The Association requested the Secretary-General ings of the Workshop jointly with the to continue to organize similar training events in the United States Department of Agriculture, Region in the future. FAO and PAGASA and its wider dissemina- 7.1.8 The Association stressed that the provision tion to all Members; of high-quality PWS was a fundamental function (iii) Supported the recommendations of the of NMSs and, in order to satisfy the growing public Workshop that: demand for more relevant, timely and accurate prod- a. A coordinated and integrated national ucts and services, requested that the future work of the agricultural weather policy was needed PWS Programme focus on the following: to ensure that operational services to (a) Building capacity and transferring knowledge and agriculture and food security were met; technology; b. The generation and application of (b) Applying new technology and research in NMHS climate information should be promoted systems and operations; by increasing policymakers’ awareness (c) Increasing the adoption of verifi cation and user- and understanding of its importance for based service assessment; sustainable development from national (d) Raising the level of public awareness, understand- to local levels; ing and response to weather warnings as part of c. In an era of decreasing public resources, natural disaster mitigation and reduction efforts; agricultural meteorologists needed (e) Improving relationships and coordination with to actively publicize their efforts and emergency management bodies and the media; successful endeavours, including an (f) Promoting and enhancing the cross-border assessment of economic benefi ts, if exchange of warnings; possible; (g) Assisting NMHSs to fully exploit and appraise the d. There was a need for routine interaction benefi ts of weather, water and climate information between agrometeorologists, agricul- in different user sectors, such as agriculture, water tural extension services and other resources, health, energy and risk management; intermediaries to provide better services (h) Promoting awareness of the impact of high- for farmers; quality, well-delivered PWS on the image and (c) As regards the meeting of the CAgM visibility of NMSs; Implementation/Coordination Team on Agro- (i) Improving the use of offi cial and consistent meteorological Services, which had been information, facilitating the international exchange held from 29 to 31 March 2004 in Manila of public weather products and making weather (Philippines), the Association noted that a information available on the Internet. comprehensive implementation plan for operational agrometeorological services had been 7.2 AGRICULTURAL METEOROLOGY PROGRAMME, proposed which included the major topics of INCLUDING THE REPORT OF THE CHAIRPERSON communication and awareness, collaboration, OF THE WORKING GROUP ON AGRICULTURAL training, tools and methods, data and observation, METEOROLOGY (agenda item 7.2) policies and resource mobilization; 7.2.1 The Association noted the Progress/Activity (d) As regards the CAgM Expert Meeting on the Report on the implementation of the Agricultural Impact of Climate Change/Variability on Medium- Meteorology Programme (AgMP) and decided as to-Long-range Predictions for Agriculture, which follows: had been held from 15 to 18 February 2005 in (a) As regards institutional support to AgMP, the Brisbane (Australia), the Association: Association requested the Secretary-General (i) Agreed with the recommendation of the to provide support for the meeting of the RA V meeting that, to deal effectively with non- Working Group on Agricultural Meteorology stationary climate trends and variations, so that the priority issues of promoting sustain- novel and different approaches to climate able agriculture in the region could be properly and systems modelling as well as agricul- addressed; tural applications and systems management (b) As regards the Inter-Regional Workshop on were needed; Strengthening Operational Agrometeorological (ii) Also agreed that regular training semi- Services at the National Level, which had been nars should be held for user communities held from 22 to 26 March 2004 in Manila on seasonal to inter-annual climate fore- (Philippines), the Association: cast applications, and that they should be 22 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
co-organized and co-hosted by NMHSs 7.2.3 The Association concluded that the fi nancial and agricultural research and extension and human resources available for activities in the area agencies; of agricultural meteorology in the South-West Pacifi c (e) As regards the Meeting of the CAgM were not consistent with the perceived impacts of Implementation Coordination Team on Impacts of climate change and weather extremes on agriculture Climate Change/Variability and Natural Disasters and forestry in the Region and recommended that: on Agriculture, which had been held from (a) Efforts should be made to strengthen training, 21 to 23 February 2005 in Auckland (New Zealand), research and operational applications in agricul- the Association supported the recommendations tural meteorology in the South-West Pacifi c; of the Meeting, as follows: (b) The linkages between meteorological services and (i) That case studies from RA V on the effects the agricultural sector should be strengthened, of tropical cyclones on rice/sugar cane in and that the collaborative activities in the fi eld the Philippines and Fiji and of droughts of agricultural meteorology improved, especially on wheat in Australia be included in the in the areas of climate forecasts and their applica- proposed project entitled the Assessment tions, remote sensing, data management, and so of Natural Disaster Impacts on Agriculture on. which was being prepared by WMO; 7.2.4 The Association agreed that the application (ii) That appropriate aspects from RA V be of meteorology to agriculture continued to be of great included in the proposed project entitled importance to the Region. Accordingly, the activities the Contribution of Agriculture to the State of the Working Group on Agricultural Meteorology of Climate, being developed by WMO to should be continued, taking into account the vari- promote a better understanding of how ous developments in the Region, such as promoting agricultural practices were contributing to the application of seasonal to inter-annual climate the current state of the climate; forecasts to agriculture in the South-West Pacifi c, (iii) That a case study from RA V on applica- especially concerning the impact of ENSO and climate tions for sugar cane scheduling and yield variability on agriculture and forestry in the Region in Queensland and Fiji be included in the and the impact of extreme events and natural disasters proposed project entitled Climate Forecasts on agriculture, forestry and fi sheries. The Association for User Communities which was being therefore re-established the Working Group on prepared by WMO; Agricultural Meteorology with renewed terms of refer- (f) Regarding the World AgroMeteorological ence and adopted Resolution 10 (XIV-RA V). Information Service, the Association urged Members to participate in the process and to 7.3 AERONAUTICAL METEOROLOGY disseminate their products to the global commu- PROGRAMME (agenda item 7.3) nity as those products could also contribute to 7.3.1 The Association noted with satisfaction that natural disaster assessments by providing bulletins Fourteenth Congress in 2003 had re-emphasized the in real time and from a historical perspective; importance it continued to attach to an expanded (g) As regards the International Workshop on and vigorous Aeronautical Meteorology Programme Climate Prediction and Agriculture: Advances (AeMP) to meet the needs of the worldwide aviation and Challenges and the Synthesis Workshop community and requested the Secretary-General to on Climate Variability and Food Security, assist in its implementation. It also noted with satis- held in Geneva from 11 to 13 May and 9 to faction that Congress had requested that high priority 10 May 2005, respectively, the Association be given to training requirements. supported the collaboration with the Global 7.3.2 The Association welcomed the establish- Change System for Analysis, Research and ment by the twelfth session of the Commission for Training and encouraged WMO to convene the Aeronautical Meteorology (CAeM), held in 2002, of Task Force on Climate Prediction and Agriculture a new CAeM structure composed of a Management in order to seek broader support for the promotion Group, two OPAGs, eight expert teams, a Rapporteur of seasonal climate applications in agriculture; on AMDAR and a Rapporteur on Aviation and Global (h) Regarding WMO activities on desertifi cation, the Environment. The Association was pleased to note Association urged Members to participate actively that the fi rst CAeM Expert Team on Education and in the implementation of the UNCCD. It urged Training Meeting, held in Exeter (United Kingdom) Members to benefi t from the support of the Global in March 2005, had discussed important topics that Mechanism of the Convention for projects in had included the preparation of the CAeM Technical that area. Conference to be held in conjunction with the CAeM 7.2.2 The Association agreed that the impact of session in 2006, the provision of training material current and future climate change on agriculture and and an implementation plan for a training strategy in forestry in the South-West Pacifi c was of signifi cant aeronautical meteorology. importance, and that Members in RA V should be 7.3.3 The Association was pleased to note that made fully aware of those impacts to take action to training events organized outside the Region and monitor and mitigate them. attended by participants from RA V had included the GENERAL SUMMARY 23 third Workshop on Volcanic Ash held in Toulouse Forecast System (WAFS) that came into force on 1 July (France) in 2003, and the Seminar on Quality 2005 after nearly twenty years of development. Since Assurance in the Provision of Meteorological Services that date, each of the two World Area Forecast Centres to Aviation, held in Hong Kong, China, in November (WAFCs) had been required to transmit, by satellite 2005. The Association welcomed Recommendation broadcasts, global wind and temperature forecasts in 4/1 of the Conjoint CAeM Session/International Civil the GRIB-coded format only, and the current wind and Aviation Organization (ICAO) Meteorology Divisional temperature forecast in T4 chart format would have Meeting held in 2002 which called for WMO, in coor- to be produced locally using the GRIB-coded informa- dination with ICAO, to continue to arrange seminars tion broadcast by the two WAFCs. The Association on cost recovery as a matter of priority. In that regard, was informed that, due to unforeseen diffi culties in the Association was pleased to note that the Regional completing work on BUFR-coded signifi cant weather Seminar on Cost Recovery and Administration, forecasts and in making relevant workstation visu- attended by 19 participants from 16 countries in RA V, alization software available to users by 1 July 2005, had been held in Vava’u (Tonga) in December 2003. the two WAFCs would continue to broadcast signifi - 7.3.4 The Association welcomed Recommendation cant weather T4 charts by satellite until 30 November 4/2 of the Conjoint Meeting which called for ICAO, 2006. The Association urged Members to upgrade their in coordination with WMO, to extend the current current workstations and workstation visualization guidance material on cost recovery. In that regard, software and to ensure that their operational staff had the Association was pleased to note that the update of been trained to access, decode and use both the GRIB- the ICAO Manual on Air Navigation Services Economics coded information and BUFR-coded WAFS products for (Doc. 9161), which contained guidance on cost recov- the local preparation of all T4 charts needed for fl ight ery for air navigation services including aeronautical documentation. meteorology, had been completed during 2004 and 7.3.7 The Association noted with satisfac- made available on the ICAO secure website at https:// tion that various amendment proposals to ICAO icaosec.icao.int/users. Furthermore, the Association Annex 3/WMO Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), was pleased to note that the update of the WMO Guide Volume II, had been approved by ICAO and WMO as on Aeronautical Meteorological Services Cost Recovery: part of Amendment 73 and had become applicable on Principles and Guidance (WMO-No. 904) was under 25 November 2004. Those provisions related, among way to refl ect changes already introduced in the ICAO others, to the WAFS fi nal phase, prevailing visibil- Manual mentioned above. ity, aerodrome forecasts, observing and reporting of 7.3.5 The Association noted with appreciation the certain meteorological elements, cloud of operational availability of training material on the AeMP website signifi cance as well as SIGMET, AIRMET, aerodrome and the efforts being made by CAeM to provide guid- warnings and the overall restructuring of the Technical ance material to back up the training process. In that Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume II. The Association regard, the Association was pleased to note that, in was pleased to note that the updated Manual on Codes 2003, the Compendium on Tropical Meteorology for (WMO-No. 306), Volume I.1, Part A, refl ecting changes Aviation Purposes (WMO-No. 930) and the Aircraft to aeronautical meteorological codes stemming from Meteorological Data Relay (AMDAR) Reference Manual Amendment 73, had been made available to Members (WMO-No. 958) had been published respectively in immediately after approval by the fi fty-seventh session English and English and French, and that an updated of the Executive Council, held in June 2005. version of the Guide to Practices for Meteorological Offi ces 7.3.8 The Association noted with satisfaction that, Serving Aviation (WMO-No.732) had been published in line with Recommendation 2/2 of the Conjoint in four languages. The booklet, Aviation and the Global Meeting, ICAO had completed, in close coordination Atmospheric Environment, which summarized the current with WMO, the development of a Manual on the Use scientifi c and operational knowledge of the impact of Automatic Meteorological Observing Systems at of aviation on the environment, had been jointly Aerodromes. The Association was pleased about plans published in English by WMO and UNEP in 2004. to publish the Manual in the near future. The Guide on Meteorological Observation and Information 7.3.9 The Association noted with satisfaction that, Distribution Systems at Aerodromes (WMO-No. 731) globally, 14 national operational AMDAR programmes had been updated, and the publication Aerodrome were producing up to 200 000 observations per Reports and Forecasts: A Users’ Handbook to the Codes day, compared to only three operational national (WMO-No. 782), as well as the WMO Technical programmes producing around 30 000 observations Regulations [C.3.1] (WMO-No. 49), Volume II, had been per day in 1998 when the Panel had been established. updated and published in 2005 to support in particu- In addition, up to 30 000 observations per day, many of lar the CAeM training effort. Furthermore, the joint which were derived from data-sparse areas, were being ICAO/WMO document on the Quality Management generated but not exchanged on the GTS because of System for the Provision of Meteorological Service for the lack of funding required for the exchange of that International Air Navigation, which had been approved additional volume of AMDAR data. by ICAO and WMO, would be published in 2006. 7.3.10 In Region V, Australia and New Zealand had 7.3.6 The Association welcomed advances made been running operational AMDAR programmes for towards reaching the fi nal phase of the World Area quite some time. The current Australian operational 24 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
AMDAR aircraft fl eet consisted of eight B767 and 7.3.14 The Association noted with appreciation 30 B747 aircraft which provided about 4 000 the report provided by the Rapporteur on Regional AMDAR observations per day. Furthermore, BOM, in Aspects of the Aeronautical Meteorology Programme collaboration with the AMDAR Panel, had expressed in Region V for the period 1 January 2004–31 March its willingness to take a leading role in encouraging 2006. the development of AMDAR programmes and use 7.3.15 In view of the importance of the AeMP of AMDAR data within RA V. In that regard, in April for the Region, the Association decided to continue 2005, the Bureau had presented a discussion paper on to appoint a Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of the AMDAR at the Meeting of Regional Meteorological Aeronautical Meteorology Programme in Region V Services Directors in the Pacifi c region. Météo-France and adopted Resolution 11 (XIV-RA V). was currently running an extension of the national AMDAR programme in the French Polynesia region. 7.4 MARINE METEOROLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY The Association was informed that the T-AMDAR PROGRAMME (agenda item 7.4) system was currently tested using the Météo-France 7.4.1 The Association noted with interest that research aircraft. Fourteenth Congress had emphasized the impor- 7.3.11 Since July 2005, the New Zealand AMDAR tance of the Marine Meteorology and Oceanography fl eet had been providing a total of approximately 36 Programme (MMOP), including its traditional activi- 000 observations per month transmitted on the GTS. In ties in areas such as maritime safety services, new addition, nearly 10 000 automatic dependent surveil- priorities in operational oceanography, and the imple- lance reports per month continued to be distributed in mentation of an integrated ocean observing system international bulletins of aircraft reports in the AIREP for climate. Fourteenth Congress had approved the code as received. Furthermore, about 10 500 AMDAR programme as part of the 6LTP. The programme observations per month from Qantas were being made provided overall objectives as well as detailed guide- available. With some Air New Zealand A320s operat- lines for Members, regional associations and WMO in ing between New Zealand and the Pacifi c islands, there that fi eld. was potential for future expansion of the New Zealand 7.4.2 The Association noted with satisfaction AMDAR programme onto those routes. that the second session of the Joint WMO/IOC 7.3.12 The AMDAR Panel had requested the Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine E-AMDAR Programme to undertake feasibility stud- Meteorology (JCOMM) had successfully taken place in ies on the visualization of AMDAR data for use in Halifax (Canada) from 19 to 27 September 2005. The particular by developing countries. As a result, the Association recognized the importance of JCOMM to development of a stand-alone AMDAR software appli- its Members, noted that delegates from three RA V cation was being pursued through the development Members had been represented at the second session of a software package based on the functionality of JCOMM, and offered its fi rm and ongoing support. of the NOAA/Earth System Research Laboratory/ 7.4.3 With regard to the implementation of Global Systems Division display system. When marine meteorological and oceanographic services, completed, that visualization system would enable specifi cally in Region V, the Association noted with users, in particular those in developing countries, appreciation the comprehensive reports of the Co- to receive, decode, archive and display AMDAR data rapporteurs on Regional Oceanographic and Marine and minimize development costs. Users could view Meteorological Services, Messrs L.T. Kuay (Singapore) a demonstration via the Internet at http://AMDAR. and M. Vaiimene (Cook Islands). Specifi c issues and NOAA.gov/demo_java. activities highlighted in the reports were addressed, 7.3.13 The Association expressed its appreciation as appropriate, in the relevant paragraphs below. The to the ICAO observer for the recent ICAO activities Association agreed that the further development of aimed at helping South-West Pacifi c States to overcome marine meteorological and oceanographic services, diffi culties in the provision of the required meteorolog- together with marine observing systems in the Region, ical services and eliminate safety-related defi ciencies, particularly in light of the opinions of Fourteenth including a special implementation project entitled Congress on the matter, should be an ongoing activ- Enhancement of Meteorological Service for Aviation in ity. It therefore decided to re-appoint Co-rapporteurs the Pacifi c. The Association expressed support to ICAO and adopted Resolution 12 (XIV-RA V). activities in the Region and to the plans for providing further assistance to the South-West Pacifi c States in MARINE METEOROLOGICAL AND order to enable them fulfi l their obligations as ICAO OCEANOGRAPHIC SERVICES Contracting States with regard to the provision of the 7.4.4 The Association noted with satisfaction required meteorological services. It was noted in that that meteorological services, through SafetyNET regard that ICAO was pursuing the establishment of under the WMO marine broadcast system, under the another project which would include, among others, Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) training for meteorological personnel in charge of the covering the Region were fully operational, and provision of services to aviation. The programme for that mariners confi rmed the satisfactory accuracy future training activities would be duly coordinated and usefulness of those services. The Association by ICAO and WMO. recalled that an overwhelming majority (94 per cent) GENERAL SUMMARY 25 of survey respondents had found radio facsimilie to Australia for the contribution of Antarctic sea ice products useful; however, concerns were expressed data sets to the GDSIDB, and to New Zealand, the regarding the quality of reception and readability. Philippines and Singapore for their substantive support In that regard, it noted with interest that JCOMM, of the GTSPP. in view of the value placed by mariners on graphical information, was conducting a priority project for SYSTEMS FOR MARINE OBSERVATIONS the provision of graphical products to all mariners, AND DATA COLLECTION both GMDSS and non-GMDSS. The Association 7.4.7 The Association shared the view of Fourteenth recognized the need to continually review those Congress that JCOMM was now recognized as a services, including in particular the views of users, and primary implementation mechanism for the Global therefore urged Members in the Region, whether or Ocean Observing System (GOOS), and for operational not they operated a voluntary observing ship (VOS) oceanography in general, for which it was expected programme, to participate actively in the various to play a role equivalent to that of CBS with regard to marine meteorological services monitoring exercises the WWW. For that task, JCOMM would require the being undertaken. The Association noted with interest enhanced, active support of all maritime Members, that a new website (http://weather.gmdss.org) had especially collaboration between NMSs and appro- been established to provide real-time global marine priate national oceanographic agencies/institutions forecasts and warnings broadcast via satellite under at the national level. It therefore decided to keep in the GMDSS marine broadcast. force Resolution 13 (XIII-RA V) — Support for JCOMM 7.4.5 The Association noted with interest that on the subject. In that context, the Association noted a major JCOMM marine products workshop (Ocean in particular the establishment and development of Ops 04) had taken place in Toulouse in May 2004. The the Pacifi c Islands GOOS (PI-GOOS), whose activities workshop had attracted a large number of providers were paving the way for establishing and improving and users of operational ocean products, which had marine and coastal water quality; mariculture devel- resulted in important input for the restructuring of opment (for example, pearl and seaweed industries); the JCOMM Electronic Products Bulletin, as well as the coral reef health; climate observations; and strength- implementation of the Marine Pollution Emergency ened networks between ocean/climate scientists, Response Support System (MPERSS). The Association governmental organizations and Pacifi c Islanders. The noted with interest that a new website dedicated to Association urged that cooperation and coordination MPERSS had been established to give information be enhanced between the PI-GOOS coordinator, who on what MPERSS was and what it provided, and on was based at and worked closely with SOPAC, and the contact points at Area Meteorological Oceanographic WMO Subregional Offi ce for the South-West Pacifi c. Coordinators. The Association recalled that the devel- 7.4.8 The Association agreed that VOSs, the opment of operational oceanographic products and Ship-of-Opportunity Programme (SOOP), the Global services had been identifi ed at the second session of Sea-level Observing System (GLOSS), the Automated JCOMM as a high priority activity for the Commission Shipboard Aerological Programme (ASAP), ocean during the present intersessional period. In that data buoys, the Argo programme and oceanographic context, it congratulated Singapore for the success- satellites formed key components of both existing ful implementation and operation of the South-East and future ocean observing systems. It agreed on the Asian Centre for Atmospheric and Marine Prediction importance of the continued support by Members of (SEACAMP) project, which was providing a range of the Association for those activities. In doing so, the operational marine products and services to support Association stressed the absolute importance of obser- numerous user applications. The Association agreed vations from the ocean and marine atmosphere to that SEACAMP represented an excellent example of Members in the Region, particularly in view of the the practical application of operational oceanography extensive, data-sparse, ocean areas within RA V, in in a regional context, which was of direct relevance to support of operational meteorology, maritime safety other Members in the Region. It therefore requested services, climate monitoring and prediction, and JCOMM and the Secretariat to explore the possible the development of ocean services. In that context, extension of the SEACAMP activities and concept it noted and strongly supported the priority JCOMM more widely in the Region. was giving to ensuring the continuity and long-term 7.4.6 The Association noted with appreciation maintenance of the system, including key elements that the Marine Climatological Summaries Scheme, still regarded as research or pilot projects, such as Argo the Global Digital Sea Ice Data Bank (GDSIDB) and and oceanographic satellites. The Association urged the Global Temperature-Salinity Profi le Program all its Members to provide support, wherever possible, (GTSPP) were all being continually developed to meet to JCOMM in that regard. the requirements of a wide range of operational and 7.4.9 The Association recognized, in particular, research users for various types of marine data. The the importance of observational data from VOSs to Association therefore urged the Members concerned operational meteorology and global climate stud- in the Region to participate actively in those projects, ies, especially within RA V. It therefore expressed its which all formed part of the JCOMM Data Management concern with the potential threats being posed to Programme Area. It expressed particular appreciation VOSs through developing ship security problems 26 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V related to the increasingly widespread availability of the next workshop in the series, which would be held ships’ meteorological reports, in real time, on websites in Manila in September 2006, with additional support unconnected to NMHSs and the WWW. Without from Australia, and include a component related to urgent remedial action, there was a serious possibil- tsunami wave propagation. The Association particu- ity of a dramatic reduction in the availability of such larly appreciated the fact that the workshop would be reports, in real time, to NMHSs. The Association oriented specifi cally to participants from Pacifi c island noted with appreciation that both JCOMM and the countries. Executive Council were aware of the problem, and that it would again be an issue for discussion at the 8. HYDROLOGY AND WATER RESOURCES fi fty-eighth session of the Executive Council. Taking PROGRAMME — REGIONAL into account the discussions under agenda item ASPECTS (agenda item 8) 15.5: International exchange of data and products, the 8.1 The Association noted that, in general, the Association requested its president to express its partic- needs of Members in the Region were adequately ular concerns on the issue to the fi fty-eighth session of refl ected in the priority activities of WMO in the the Executive Council, and to urge the Council to take Hydrology and Water Resources Programme (HWRP) urgent action to address the problem. given in the 6LTP as approved by Fourteenth Congress. The Association examined those topics in the Plan TSUNAMI AND OTHER MARINE which required more emphasis and, having consid- HAZARD WARNING SYSTEMS ered those of great interest to countries in Region V, 7.4.10 The Association recalled that it had discussed took them into account when fi nalizing the future WMO’s general involvement in and support of both the work of the Working Group on Hydrology (WGH). Indian Ocean and Pacifi c Tsunami Warning Systems, 8.2 The Association noted with appreciation the being developed under the IOC (see general summary report of the chairperson of the WGH, Mr R.Raj (Fiji). paragraph 4.3.8 and agenda item 11: Natural Disaster It noted the progress made by the chairperson and Prevention and Mitigation Programme — Regional the fi ve expert members who had been given specifi c aspects). The Association reiterated the importance to assignments in carrying out activities of particular Members in the Region of the rapid implementation interest to Members, and expressed appreciation to of robust and effi cient tsunami warning systems, as the other members of the WGH who had supported well as the development of the capacity of all Members the fi ve experts. The Association also expressed its to receive and act on tsunami warnings. The recent appreciation to Mr R. Raj for the signifi cant role he earthquake near Tonga, and the associated tsunami had played as the WGH chairperson. In particular, it alert, which had occurred during the meeting of the noted with interest that the WGH had focused on fi ve ICG/PTWS held in Melbourne from 1 to 5 May 2006, priority areas out of the ten identifi ed during the fi fth had dramatically underlined the abovementioned session of the RA V WGH in 2002. The experts had importance. In the context of the present agenda item, prepared reports on: the Association noted with appreciation the support (a) Hydrological training – Mr R. Raj (Fiji); that JCOMM could provide to tsunami warning systems, (b) Technology and data standards – Mr C. Pearson in particular in areas such as deep ocean moorings for (New Zealand); tsunami wave monitoring, the GTS distribution of sea (c) Hydrological network maintenance – level data, and the dissemination of tsunami warnings. Mr B. Parakoti (Cook Islands); It urged the Secretariat to make every effort to ensure (d) Support for integrated water resources manage- full coordination of both those and other specifi c WMO ment – Mr R. James (Australia); activities, including the development of WIS, with the (e) Public awareness of the value of hydrological data work being undertaken by the different coordination and products – Ms M. Bautista (Philippines). groups under the IOC. 8.3 On the basis of the recommendations of 7.4.11 The Association noted with appreciation the WGH, and taking into account the decisions the work being undertaken by JCOMM in support of Fourteenth Congress and the recommendations of marine multi-hazard warning systems in general, of CHy, the Association decided to re-establish the including the preparation of a guide to storm surge Group, which was open to all Members of the Region, forecasting and warning (due for completion in early and adopted Resolution 13 (XIV-RA V). With respect 2007), the development of multi-purpose ocean data to the Group’s membership, the Association requested acquisition systems, the GTS distribution of obser- its Members to ensure an adequate representation of vational data related to marine hazards, and the National Hydrological Services (NHSs) and other insti- dissemination of marine hazard warnings. tutions working in the fi eld of water-related activities. The Association also took note of the future programme CAPACITY-BUILDING of work proposed by the WGH, which conformed 7.4.12 The Association noted with appreciation the closely to the 6LTP, and included it in Resolution 13 joint organization of a series of workshops on wave (XIV-RA V). It further recommended that at least one and surge forecasting for tropical cyclones by the session of the WGH should be arranged during the WMO TCP, JCOMM and Norway during the past three intersessional period, and that fi nancial assistance be years. The Association expressed its appreciation of provided by WMO so that the members could attend GENERAL SUMMARY 27 the session. The Association noted that the WGH most component descriptions had become avail- chairperson had a key role and needed the support of able in English, French, Russian and Spanish. The his or her country, leadership capabilities and time to Association also noted that, with the increasing use of devote to WGH activities. the Internet and the availability of hydrological tech- nology through that medium, consideration should COMMISSION FOR HYDROLOGY be given to closer linkages between the Hydrological 8.4 The Association was informed about the Operational Multipurpose System (HOMS) and the outcome of the twelfth session of CHy. It noted that Internet. the Commission had established only the Advisory 8.10 However, the Association noted that the Working Group composed of nine members, and replenishment of the HRM with new components fi ve Open Panels of CHy Experts (OPACHE) on fi ve was advancing rather slowly, as very few had been thematic areas: basic systems (hydrometry and submitted by the HOMS National Reference Centres hydraulics), water resources assessment and water use, in recent years. Aware that in the past members from hydrological forecasting and prediction, disaster miti- the Region had been very active in supplying compo- gation – fl oods and droughts (hydrological aspects), nents to HOMS, the Association invited Members to and analysis of hydroclimatological data for variabil- renew their commitment with a view to improving ity and trends. components of particular interest in RA V, such as 8.5 The Association encouraged Members to instrumentation, network design, fl ood forecasting, nominate experts to OPACHE and recommended that drought management and quality management. each member of the re-established WGH be encour- 8.11 The Association noted with appreciation aged to join the appropriate thematic area of OPACHE that the fi fth edition of the Guide to Hydrological with the aim of establishing closer relations between Practices (WMO-No. 168) was available on CD-ROM in CHy and the WGH. four languages. It also noted that the draft of the 8.6 The Association noted that the Commission sixth edition of the Guide was under development. had expressed concern over the decline in fi nancial 8.12 The Association was informed that WMO support provided to the organization of sessions of had launched a fl ood forecasting initiative to improve regional WGHs, and over the low visibility of the fl ood forecasting and enhance cooperation between WGHs’ activities in the annual reports of the presidents NMSs and NHSs to deliver timely and more accurate of regional associations submitted to the Executive products and services. The initiative was implemented Council. The Association also noted the importance through the organization of regional workshops and of allocating resources to activities that resulted in would be concluded by a fi nal global conference to be benefi ts to the Region, especially those of the subject- held in 2006. The results of the conference would serve orientated working groups. as input to the review of cooperation mechanisms 8.7 The Association welcomed the adoption by between NMHSs, and in promoting the application of the Commission of the WMO Strategy on Education NWP products for fl ood forecasting. The Association and Training in Hydrology and Water Resources. It requested the WMO Secretariat to consider holding noted the priority areas identifi ed by the regional the fi nal global conference in RA V with the view to WGH and urged the WMO Secretariat to assist in promoting stronger cooperation between NMSs and the development of training initiatives to meet those NHSs and improving fl ood forecasting systems. priority areas. 8.13 The Association also appreciated WMO’s 8.8 The president of the Commission informed efforts to address the issue of cooperation between the Association that the Commission’s workplan NMSs and NHSs and urged its Members to follow would focus on the review and update of guidance up the outcome of the global conference in order to material for NHSs within a quality management frame- strengthen their capacities for fl ood forecasting. work and in support of projects such as the World 8.14 The Association noted progress made in Hydrological Cycle Observing System (WHYCOS)/the the development of the Global Terrestrial Network- Hydrological Cycle Observing System (HYCOS) and Hydrology as a “network of networks” of global data the Associated Programme on Flood Management centres and information providers for hydrological (APFM). The Association appreciated the proposal and relevant meteorological data and information. of the CHy Advisory Working Group to review the 8.15 The Association noted that the Expert Meeting programme structure under CHy to support a more on Hydrological Sensitivity to Climate Conditions had focused orientation of activities. been held in December 2003 at the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology in Wallingford (United Kingdom) to IMPLEMENTATION OF HWRP AND prepare a global statistical analysis of the sensitivity ITS REGIONAL ASPECTS of runoff to precipitation. The fourth meeting of the 8.9 The Association noted that progress had WCP-Water Steering Committee had been held in the been made in the Implementation Plan for HOMS same location in June 2005 and had discussed project in the Twenty-First century during the past interses- progress and undertaken a review of the programme. sional period. In particular, it was pleased to note 8.16 The Association was pleased to note the that the online version of the HOMS Reference Manual continuous cooperation with the Global Runoff Data (HRM) was being updated regularly, and, since 2003, Centre in Koblenz (Germany), and was informed that 28 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V the International Groundwater Resources Assessment The resolution called upon the relevant United Nations Centre (IGRAC) based in Utrecht (the Netherlands) bodies, specialized agencies, regional commissions had been in operational mode since May 2003. It and other organizations of the United Nations system expressed its appreciation to the Government of the to deliver a coordinated response, to make “Water for Netherlands for the support provided. It was also Life” a decade for action. pleased to learn that the WMO Secretariat had organ- 8.22 The Association invited Members to provide ized the Workshop on Groundwater Management regional perspectives and inputs for the development in Arid and Semi-arid Countries in Cairo (Egypt) in of the International Decade for Action. It recom- April 2005. Over seventy international experts from mended that the activities of the WGH be identifi ed as forty-fi ve countries had attended the Workshop. The contributions to the International Decade for Action, Association recommended the distribution of work- where appropriate. shop proceedings to all Members. 8.23 The Association was pleased to note WMO’s 8.17 The Association was pleased to learn contribution to the World Water Week held in that the Guidelines for the Education and Training of Stockholm in August 2005. The Association was also Personnel in Meteorology and Operational Hydrology pleased to learn of WMO’s participation at the third (WMO-No. 258), Volume II — Hydrology had been and fourth World Water Forum and the Ministerial prepared by the Editorial Task Force – Hydrology Conference during the Forums which were held in and covered the fi eld of integrated water resources March 2003 and 2006 in Japan and Mexico, respec- management. The Volume had been prepared with tively. The Association commended the WMO contributions from hydrological services of vari- Secretariat for the successful participation in the ous Regions, CHy, the United Nations Educational, fourth Forum and appreciated the increased level of Scientifi c and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and recognition of the role of NMHSs that would follow external experts. The review had been carried out in that high profi le involvement. two steps: (a) by CHy and UNESCO; and (b) by two 8.24 The Association noted with appreciation the external reviewers. The English version of the Volume implementation of the APFM, funded by Japan and had been sent to all Members during the fi rst half of the Netherlands. That joint initiative undertaken by 2004. WMO and the Global Water Partnership aimed to 8.18 The Association noted that close collabora- promote the concept of Integrated Flood Management tion had been maintained between WMO and other (IFM) and highlighted practical steps for putting it United Nations organizations dealing with water in into practice. the framework of UN-Water, and that one of the main 8.25 The Association was informed of progress activities of UN-Water was now directed towards the made in the area of international data exchange and preparation of the World Water Development Report. promotion of the implementation of Resolution 25 It noted WMO’s contribution to several chapters of the (Cg-XIII) — Exchange of hydrological data and prod- second report. The Association also noted the contin- ucts. It noted the results of the questionnaire on the ued collaboration with ESCAP. exchange of hydrological data and products that 8.19 The Association was informed that WMO had been circulated to all Members. The Association and ISDR had been the lead secretariats within the urged its Members to promote the implementation of United Nations for the global celebration of World Resolution 25 (Cg-XIII). Water Day 2004 which had had “Water and Disasters” 8.26 The Association recognized the impor- as the theme. Emphasis in the awareness campaign tance of standardization of data and metadata in had been “Be Informed and be Prepared”. WMO had hydrology to facilitate the international exchange prepared an information kit that included a booklet, of hydrological data and information, and that a poster and fact sheets on the activities of various those requirements must be taken into account in United Nations agencies in the fi eld of water-related the development of WIS. In that connection, the disasters. Association recommended that the WGH provide 8.20 The Association noted with interest the input to the various WMO activities associated with development of the International Flood Initiative those initiatives. originally promoted jointly by WMO and UNESCO 8.27 The Association noted with appreciation and later extended to include other United Nations the support provided by the Government of New agencies. The initiative would promote an integrated Zealand to strengthen the technical capacity of approach to fl ood management to maximize the long- small island States in the fi eld of Integrated Water term benefi ts of fl oods and minimize the hardships, Resources Management (IWRM). The Association loss of life and damage to goods and assets which was pleased to note that the New Zealand Agency resulted from fl oods. for International Development (NZAid) had contrib- 8.21 The Association was informed that the uted funding for the implementation of a hydrology United Nations General Assembly, with its resolu- training course, and expressed appreciation for its tion A/RES/58/217 adopted on 23 December 2003, substantial support towards capacity-building in had proclaimed the period from 2005 to 2015 as the the Region. It also acknowledged initial support International Decade for Action, “Water for Life”, from WMO in developing the initiative and role of commencing on World Water Day on 22 March 2005. SOPAC in implementing the training course. The GENERAL SUMMARY 29
Association urged Members to provide feedback to 8.35 The Association noted that the Pacific- WMO and SOPAC about benefi ts stemming from HYCOS was considered to be one of the most the training and other needs of the Region and complete projects that could address a host of requested WMO and SOPAC to continue supporting needs-related issues. It had the potential to raise the training course. In that regard, recently retired the profile of national hydrological services, hydrological experts, where appropriate, could assist thereby attracting not only donors but national in training initiatives. support as well. The Association recommended 8.28 The Association also urged the WGH to pay focusing on activities related to training, exchange particular attention to the needs of small island States of expertise, development of data archiving capa- as it further developed its workplans and in particu- bilities, and public information as priority areas to lar recognized the need to expand, as appropriate, the be addressed. Pacifi c-HYCOS project to other areas of the Pacifi c. 8.29 The Association noted the issue of data rescue 9. EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROGRAMME and in particular the problems faced by LDCs in main- — REGIONAL ASPECTS (agenda item 9) taining past records, and urged the WMO Secretariat to assist in that area, where possible. SURVEYING MEMBERS’ TRAINING NEEDS AND PROVIDING 8.30 The Association supported closer cooperation GUIDANCE between NMSs and NHSs, in particular with regard to 9.1 The Association was informed that the results the provision of meteorological services in support of of the quadrennial WMO questionnaire on Members’ water allocation, water delivery, water demand, water training requirements were used as an aid/guide for reuse, IFM and IWRM. the overall monitoring of training priorities during the current fi nancial period. It was recognized that WORLD HYDROLOGICAL CYCLE OBSERVING SYSTEM additional fi nancial resources would be necessary in 8.31 The Association was pleased to note that a order to satisfy all the identifi ed training needs of the comprehensive report on the status of the HYCOS Region. components had been prepared and submitted to the 9.2 Noting that only 59 per cent of its Members Executive Council in May 2005. The report covered had responded to the 2002 survey, the Association the current status of implementation of regional encouraged Members to be more responsive to the components, their success and failures, issues of forthcoming 2006 Survey, in order to effi ciently assist data exchange and standardization, and long-term in the regional planning and implementation of the sustainability. Education and Training Programme (ETRP) during the 8.32 The Association also noted with appreciation fi fteenth fi nancial period. the launch of the WHYCOS Guidelines for development, 9.3 The Association was informed that the implementation and governance (WMO/TD-No. 1282) Executive Council Panel of Experts on Education and and special web page for WHYCOS. The Association Training, at its twenty-fi rst session, held in Antalya commended the WMO Secretariat on the preparation (Turkey) from 3 to 7 May 2003, had established an of that material and was pleased to hear that it would Expert Team on Accreditation and Certifi cation in be available for use in the Pacifi c region. Meteorological Education and Training, with the 8.33 The Association noted with apprecia- mandate, among others, to clarify certain practical tion that the implementation of the WHYCOS questions raised by some Members in relation to the programme had continued with the development implementation of the new WMO classifi cation of of new components with fi nancial support from the personnel in Meteorology. European Union and the Governments of France and the Netherlands. TRAINING EVENTS ORGANIZED/CO-SPONSORED BY WMO 8.34 The Association noted with satisfaction the 9.4 The Association was informed that, during cooperation between WMO and SOPAC in developing the period 2002–2005, a total of 20 training events the Pacifi c-HYCOS project. The Association was pleased organized in the Region with WMO acting as the main to note that SOPAC, in collaboration with WMO, had organizer or providing partial support had been aimed managed to secure funding from the European Union at improving the effi ciency and effectiveness of the for the Pacifi c-HYCOS project implementation in the instructional process itself, with particular attention period 2006–2008 with the objective of improving the being given to the following objectives: training the management and protection of Pacifi c small island trainers; training the training managers; promoting States’ freshwater resources. That would be achieved distance learning; updating trainers’ science base; and through the provision of appropriate water resources stimulating the application of modern pedagogical management systems to demonstrate sustainable methods and information technology tools in train- catchment and aquifer management and contribute ing design and delivery. to the WMO WHYCOS programme. The Association 9.5 The Association noted that the participants at expressed its appreciation to the European Union for those training events had expressed their satisfaction funding the project and agreed that that initiative with respect to training delivery and its suitability for would provide an excellent basis for the work of the their subsequent work. The Association expressed its WGH. gratitude to Members who made their training facilities 30 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V and/or experts available in order to implement those materials, and other sorts of assistance under bilateral training events. or multilateral arrangements. 9.11 The Association noted with satisfaction SHARING TRAINING RESOURCES AND WMO’s efforts in sharing training resources and PROMOTING DISTANCE LEARNING promoting distance learning among WMO RMTCs. 9.6 The Association was informed that the Recognizing the importance of the training materi- Standing Conference of the Heads of Training als prepared by COMET, it was recommended that the Institutions of National Meteorological Services four CD-ROMS be distributed to all WMO Members (SCHOTI), at its sixth meeting which was held in for their national training. Madrid (Spain) on 25 April 2003, had elected its new 9.12 Considering the recommendation of the Coordinating Committee, which had strongly encour- sixth Session of the RA V Working Group on Hydrology, aged the sharing of training resources among relevant held in Nadi (Fiji) in October 2005, the Association was institutions. also informed of the establishment of the Indonesian 9.7 The Association expressed its appreciation to Hydrological Training Centre and appreciated the the relevant NMSs (Finland, France, Germany, Spain offer from Indonesia to provide the Centre’s facilities and the United Kingdom) for their voluntary support for regional training. to SCHOTI activities. The Association also appreci- ated the kind offer of the United States Cooperative AWARDING AND IMPLEMENTING FELLOWSHIPS Program for Operational Meteorology, Education and 9.13 The Association noted that WMO fellowships Training (COMET), the European Organisation for the remained crucial in assisting Member countries in the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) fi eld of capacity-building, in particular in terms of and the European Meteorological Computer Assisted emerging new needs relating to areas such as satellite Learning (Eumetcal) programme to freely make avail- meteorology, information technology, new telecom- able some of their training modules. munication systems, computer technology, modern 9.8 The Association noted the recent review of data processing systems, climate change, natural disas- the ETRP website and the current initiative towards ters and the atmospheric environment. It noted with developing an interface to facilitate online access to satisfaction the continued efforts being made to further worldwide training resources, as well as exchange of enhance the programme and to improve effectiveness meteorological case studies and related documenta- and transparency in the granting and implementa- tion between advanced and less advanced training tion process of fellowships. The Association thanked institutions. It encouraged those Members possess- the Secretary-General for the circular letter sent to ing relevant expertise and experience in that domain the Permanent Representatives of Member countries to assist the Secretariat in developing and maintain- in April 2005 regarding requests for fellowships, and ing that interface. The Association recommended urged its Members to continue to utilize more effec- the development of a special web page for the WMO tively the fellowships programme. Subregional Offi ce which would include all training 9.14 The Association requested the Secretary- events in order to make Member countries aware of General to continue his efforts to increase conventional training activities in different WMO Regions and facil- fellowships funds by tapping extrabudgetary resources itate their planning activities. It was suggested that and exploring new potential sources of funding for the web page be established in close cooperation with fellowship-related activities. regional institutions such as SPREP. RAPPORTEUR ON EDUCATION AND TRAINING REGIONAL METEOROLOGICAL TRAINING CENTRES 9.15 In view of the continued pressing needs of 9.9 The Association was informed that the Members for capacity-building and human resources quadrennial Meeting of Directors of WMO Regional development in meteorology and specialized subjects Meteorological Training Centres, held in Madrid essential to economic and social development in (Spain) on 26 April 2003), had examined, among the Region, the Association agreed to designate a others, the need to strengthen the interaction of Rapporteur on Education and Training Matters and Regional Meteorological Training Centres (RMTCs) adopted Resolution 14 (XIV-RA V) to that effect. with advanced training and educational centres. 9.16 The Association expressed its appreciation to 9.10 The Association noted with appreciation the Rapporteur on Education and Training Matters, that the WMO RMTC in RA V continued to carry out Mr P. Riley (Australia) and the Co-Rapporteurs, satisfactorily the routine training programmes and to Mr B.M. Soriano (Philippines) and Mr K. Waters organize specialized courses in response to the needs (United States), for their report, which listed some of Members in the Region as well as other Regions. recent and current education and training initiatives The Association urged its Members to make the maxi- affecting RA V. mum use of the training programmes offered by that 9.17 The Association noted that a considerable RTMC. In that connection, Members were requested amount of short- and long-term meteorological train- to assist the WMO RMTC in the Region in organizing ing had been provided within the Region by RMTC courses, through the provision of instructors for short- Philippines, the Micronesian Meteorologist Internship term assignments, the provision of relevant training Program, the Pacifi c Desk Programme conducted by the GENERAL SUMMARY 31
RSMC Honolulu Hurricane Centre, the one-year post- management; and promote visits for trainers from graduate diploma course run by the Meteorological developed countries to developing countries within Service of New Zealand and the one-year post-gradu- the Region. ate diploma programme in meteorology run by BOM, 9.23 Noting the need to foster international and called on the organizers to accept more foreign cooperation in training, the Association encouraged students from developing countries within the Region Members to enhance the access to and sharing of at a concessionary rate. The Association also appre- existing training resources within the Region. ciated other training courses provided by Fiji, New 9.24 The Association recognized the need to make Caledonia and French Polynesia. the profession more attractive, to support programmes 9.18 The Association noted with appreciation that in schools and popular meteorological and hydrologi- the Training Course on Maintenance for Technicians cal education and to take steps to encourage women from South Pacifi c Islands’ National Meteorological to enter careers in meteorology and hydrology. Services, involving 11 countries, had taken place in 9.25 Noting the request of the Secretary-General Tahiti (French Polynesia) in November 2005 at the concerning National Focal Points for Education and invitation of Météo-France and with the fi nancial Training, the Association encouraged all Members to support of the French Government and the technical make their nominations in that regard to the WMO support of WMO. Similarly, the Training Course on Secretariat and to continue to advise the Rapporteurs Meteorology for Forecasters from South Pacifi c Islands’ on their training needs and activities. National Meteorological Services, involving 15 coun- tries, would take place in Nouméa (New Caledonia) in 10. TECHNICAL COOPERATION PROGRAMME September 2006, with simultaneous interpretation and — REGIONAL ASPECTS (agenda item 10) translation into English and French. The Association 10.1 The Association expressed satisfaction that expressed its satisfaction with the initiatives and a number of measures had been undertaken by the requested the organizer to repeat such training in Secretary-General to effect structural and organizational the future so as to work towards making it a regular changes in the Secretariat, especially with respect to occurrence. Regional and Subregional Offi ces and technical cooper- 9.19 The Association noted with appreciation that ation activities with a view to improving the delivery of a technology-intensive approach to education and services to Members and enhancing partnerships with training, such as computer-aided learning and online national and regional institutions and international training resources, were available and could be applied organizations. In that regard, the Regional and Technical in the Region. It noted in particular the existence of Cooperation Activities for Development Department Eumetcal funded by the European Meteorological would ensure the smooth and effi cient implementa- Services Network (EUMETNET); VISITview, a train- tion of activities within the framework of the Regional ing and real-time collaboration tool developed for Programme and the Technical Cooperation Programme the United States National Weather Service; and the (TCOP). The new structure was being implemented Virtual Laboratory for Satellite Training and Data in a phased manner. The Association requested the Utilization, and called on Members to take advantage Secretary-General to continue his efforts to strengthen of those online training resources in order to meet the the Department with a view to meeting the require- training needs of their NMHSs. ments of Members in the Region in an effi cient and 9.20 The Association recognized that staff numbers cost-effective manner. The Association expressed its in the Region were expected to keep increasing in the interest in putting additional emphasis on resource near future and, as such, the need for training would mobilization for development projects in the Region. increase, and requested the developed Members 10.2 The Association recognized the importance within the Region to provide the necessary support, as of establishing strategic partnerships and alliances appropriate. with the NMHSs of Members, funding institutions, 9.21 The Association noted the need to speed national technical cooperation and aid agencies, for up the implementation of the new WMO classifi ca- example, AusAID, the United Kingdom Department for tion of personnel in meteorology and hydrology International Development, the Japan International and to update the curricula for training personnel in Cooperation Agency, NZAid and the United States line with the Guidelines for the Education and Training Agency for International Development (USAid), the of Personnel in Meteorology and Operational Hydrology United Nations system and regional and international (WMO-No. 258). organizations, as well as with the private sector, as a 9.22 The Association also noted that some strategy to access extrabudgetary resources for tech- priorities which might be identifi ed as emerging from nical cooperation activities. The Association further the relevant meetings and forums over the past four recognized the need to strengthen the communica- years were mainly to explore the possibility of having tion between WMO and NMHSs to develop joint accreditation and certifi cation in the fi eld of education initiatives for sharing resources and avoiding the and training in meteorology and hydrology; enhance duplication of efforts. It recommended further coordi- education and training efforts in “soft” competencies, nation of international assistance to recipient NMHSs especially in management and administration, as from multilateral and bilateral funding agencies in the well as in areas such as communication and crisis preparation and negotiation of project proposals. 32 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
10.3 The Association recognized the efforts being Association further noted that an implementation made by WMO to reactivate partnerships with United plan was being developed based on the LDCs strategic Nations agencies and other relevant organizations, to action plan and urged its Members to support and contribute actively to the formulation and implemen- actively participate in the WMO Programme for the tation of relevant meteorological, hydrological and LDCs, both scientifi cally and by mobilizing resources environmental aspects of projects and programmes, through their national cooperation agencies or any and to establish international standards and guide- other funding mechanisms. lines. In that respect, the Association recommended 10.8 The Association reviewed the technical coop- that special attention be paid to WMO’s contribution eration activities carried out during the reporting to and participation in the implementation of the period and noted that several countries in the Region Johannesburg Plan of Action of the World Summit had received technical assistance under projects funded on Sustainable Development (WSSD), the United by various sources such as trust funds, the United Nations Millennium Declaration, the Mauritius Nations Development Programme (UNDP), WMO VCP International Meeting to Review the Implementation and bilateral assistance. The Association expressed its of the Programme of Action for the Sustainable appreciation to donors, UNDP and Members for the Development of Small Island Developing States, the support provided to NMHSs. The Association noted World Conference on Disaster Reduction (WCDR) and the considerable efforts made by the Subregional the GEO. Offi ce for the South-West Pacifi c to enhance technical 10.4 The Association noted with satisfaction the cooperation activities, especially through the develop- efforts made by the Secretary-General towards mobi- ment of national and regional projects. In that respect, lizing further resources in support of the Programme. the Association acknowledged the WMO Subregional In particular, WMO had concluded a Memorandum Offi ce for the South-West Pacifi c’s project develop- of Understanding with the European Commission in ment and resource mobilization activities. December 2003 to foster collaboration in the areas 10.9 The Association noted that the Strengthening of DPM, climate change, water resources manage- Disaster Management and Preparedness project in ment, protection of the environment and others. The Tokelau formulated by UNDP and the Subregional Association encouraged the enhancement of that type Offi ce had been approved in January 2004. The project of agreement. was being implemented nationally. 10.5 The Association welcomed WMO’s contin- 10.10 The Association noted the satisfactory imple- ued efforts to assist NMHSs and governments, mentation of the WMO/ESCAP trust fund project through the coordinated efforts of the Secretariat, in entitled Support to the Implementation of the Regional the mobilization of resources for the development of Haze Action Plan of ASEAN Member Countries with meteorological and hydrological services in support fi nancial support from the Government of Australia. of the economic and social sectors. The Association The project contributed to the implementation of also noted that several Members had received assist- the Regional Haze Action Plan’s monitoring compo- ance in the development of new projects in support of nent to provide early warnings of forest fi res and the national and regional meteorological and hydrologi- prediction of smoke and haze transportation. A fi nal cal projects. workshop on the project had been held in Singapore 10.6 The Association also urged Members, in December 2003. Measurement instruments had especially their NMHSs, to make special efforts to been installed in Indonesia and Malaysia, and train- establish partnerships within countries, for example ing courses for the use of the instruments had been with development organizations, other agencies and held. The Association requested the Secretary-General institutions. to continue working with ESCAP to develop new joint 10.7 The Association noted that, at its fi fty- initiatives in the areas of common interest. seventh session, the Executive Council had reviewed 10.11 The Association recognized the importance the major outcomes of the meeting on the WMO of trust funds for WMO technical cooperation activi- Programme for the LDCs including a strategic action ties for the development of NMHSs in the Region. The plan and endorsed the recommendations, in particular: Association encouraged Members to make use of such (a) adopting an integrated but country-specifi c strategic arrangements, which had proven to be cost-effective approach when implementing the Programme; for their NMHSs. (b) providing NMHSs in LDCs with the means to 10.12 The Association was pleased to note that, enable them to provide a minimum set of products within the framework of the WMO VCP, eight and services to their respective governments and Members in RA V had received support for a total of users; (c) establishing an appropriate structure and 15 VCP projects (training projects excluded) during funding mechanism for the effective implementation the period 2002–2005, in particular for strengthening of the Programme considering its cross-cutting WWW operational facilities, for climatological activi- nature; (d) facilitating information fl ow to the LDCs ties, and for aeronautical meteorological activities on how they could take advantage of the various through the provision of satellite-based distribution opportunities to enhance resource mobilization; and systems for WAFS data and products. The Association (e) mobilizing resources to support the participation noted that there was still a need in the Region to of LDCs in training seminars/workshops. The provide support to Members in order to ensure that GENERAL SUMMARY 33 a minimum basic infrastructure was kept in opera- Nauru, Palau, Timor-Leste, Tokelau and Tuvalu, the tion. It expressed its appreciation to the VCP donor Association expressed its hope that those countries Members and urged others to participate actively in would become Members of WMO. It urged Members that scheme. Furthermore, the Association encour- and development partners, with the support of WMO, aged more Members to become VCP donors. to take necessary steps to assist them in the develop- 10.13 The Association expressed its satisfaction ment of national meteorological infrastructures and with the number of short- and long-term fellowships services. that had been awarded through the VCP and the 10.20 The Association requested the Secretary- WMO regular budget, and requested the Secretary- General to continue his efforts to strengthen regional General to continue his efforts to secure more funding and technical cooperation activities for meeting the under the WMO VCP in order to meet the increasing requirements of Members in the Region. demand of Member countries for training meteoro- logical and hydrological staff for the development of 11. NATURAL DISASTER PREVENTION their Services. AND MITIGATION PROGRAMME 10.14 The Association reiterated the importance — REGIONAL ASPECTS (agenda item 11) of technical cooperation among developing countries 11.1 The Association recalled Resolution 29 (TCDC) as a means of promoting regional and inter- (Cg-XIV) by which Congress (Geneva, May 2003) had national cooperation. The Association expressed its decided to initiate a major programme on DPM. gratitude to the Members and others who participated 11.2 The Association further recalled that the fi fty- in TCDC activities and urged them to take an active sixth session of the Executive Council (Geneva, June part in that important activity. 2004) had established the Executive Council Advisory 10.15 The Association also noted the importance of Group on Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation bilateral and multilateral arrangements for the promo- as a continuous mechanism to review and advise on tion of meteorological and hydrological services and those matters on a regular basis. urged Members to provide the WMO Secretariat with 11.3 The Association noted that the fi fty-seventh information pertaining to such types of assistance. session of the Executive Council (Geneva, June 2005) 10.16 The Association noted that some of the had endorsed the recommendations of the fi rst projects identifi ed in the Needs Analysis for the Meeting of the Advisory Group (Geneva, March 2005) Strengthening of Pacifi c Islands Meteorological and adopted the Revised DPM Implementation Plan Services: Meeting the Challenges report had been and related high-priority actions. formulated and/or implemented following the 11.4 The Association stressed that carrying out the development of the Strategic Action Plan for the Revised DPM Implementation Plan required a cross- Development of Meteorology in the Pacifi c Region cutting framework involving close collaboration and (2000–2009) in 2000. coordination of the DPM-related activities of WMO 10.17 In that connection, the Association was Programmes, regional associations, technical commis- pleased to note that WMO had initiated the develop- sions and NMHSs. The Association noted that several ment of a project proposal concerning the adaptation structures were being established to enhance the coor- to climate change and variability and strengthening of dination of activities, including: meteorological and hydrological facilities for DPM in (a) National DPM focal points nominated by the SIDS in the Pacifi c with the support of the Government Permanent Representatives. The Association of Finland, and requested the Secretary-General to invited those that had not yet nominated submit the project proposal to the Government of their national focal points to do so, as soon as Finland, for funding. The Association requested WMO possible; to ensure the sustainability of the meteorological (b) Regional Association Working Groups on DPM; infrastructures and services supported by the project. (c) DPM Rapporteurs within the Management 10.18 The Association noted that several countries Group; affected by natural disasters had received support within (d) A Steering Committee on Disaster Reduction the framework of the WMO Natural Disaster Assistance within the WMO Secretariat. Fund for Meteorological and Hydrological Services The Association urged the national focal points to (Emergency Assistance Fund), through donations from coordinate their activities with the DPM Programme Member countries and private companies, for reha- and to network at the subregional level according bilitating networks of stations and associated facilities to their different requirements and interests. The destroyed by natural disasters. The Association, appre- Association also stressed the need for effective collab- ciating the assistance provided under the Emergency oration between the network of focal points and the Assistance Fund and the VCP to the NMHSs in the RA V Working Group on Natural Disaster Prevention South-West Pacifi c affected by Tropical Cyclone Heta, and Mitigation. encouraged Members to apply to the Fund when they 11.5 The Association noted the signifi cant needed emergency assistance for rehabilitation. The contributions made by WMO to the successful Association urged Members to contribute to the Fund. preparation and outcomes of the WCDR, held in 10.19 Noting that there were a number of poten- Kobe, Hyogo (Japan). The Association considered the tial WMO Members, for example the Marshall Islands, benefi ts of that proactive participation to be the result 34 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V of effective coordination through the cross-cutting and priorities in strengthening DPM capacities for activities of DPM. The Association acknowledged disaster risk reduction in each of WMO’s six Regions. the WCDR outcomes refl ected in the the Hyogo 11.9 The Association also noted that the DPM Declaration and the Hyogo Framework for Action Programme, in coordination with other Programmes, 2005–2015: Building the Resilience of Nations and planned to convene a multidisciplinary expert meet- Communities to Disasters as a means to provide a ing in late 2007, involving DPM representatives from vehicle to expand the international recognition of the technical commissions, the regional associations the importance of hydrometeorological information and WMO Programmes, to review the results of the and services to disaster risk reduction. The Association three DPM surveys and the recommendations of the noted that the Hyogo Framework for Action called for Executive Council Advisory Group on Natural Disaster an integrated, multi-hazard approach to disaster risk Prevention and Mitigation. The goal of that expert reduction and provided fi ve priorities for action. The meeting would be to identify concrete project areas Association noted that natural disasters were a major related to enhancing capacities in WMO’s core areas consideration for RA V and acknowledged that WMO, supporting disaster risk reduction in each Region. RA V and NMHSs were in an excellent position to take a Those project areas would be identifi ed by building leading role at the international, regional and national on the activities of WMO Programmes, regional asso- levels, respectively, particularly in the second priority ciations and technical commissions in a coordinated for action: Identify, assess and monitor disaster risks fashion to address WMO’s goals in a more systematic and enhance early warning, while also contributing to and sustainable manner. A set of DPM performance the other four priorities for action. measures would also be developed through the multi- 11.6 The Association acknowledged the actions disciplinary expert team to monitor implementation of the DPM Programme Offi ce to execute the Revised and success of the projects implemented through a DPM Implementation Plan and noted that in 2005– coordinated approach of WMO Programmes. 2006 the DPM Programme was giving the highest 11.10 The Association noted that during the fi fty- priority to: (a) integrating cross-cutting activities of seventh session of the Executive Council four major WMO Programmes by identifying and giving priority areas of gaps and needs in DPM had been highlighted, to gaps and needs in each WMO Region and address- and it had been requested that, while the DPM ing them in a systematic and sustainable manner; (b) Programme conducted the systematic DPM assessment facilitating strategic partnerships; and (c) assisting surveys, in parallel, it should proceed with initiating Members in strengthening their capacity for hazard a number of key projects through the coordination of mapping and their input to risk assessment for hydrom- activities of relevant WMO Programmes, in support of eteorological hazards. The Association noted that in the NMHSs. Those included: 2006–2007, through the cross-cutting framework of (a) Compiling a catalogue of weather-, climate- and the DPM Programme, WMO would also initiate: (a) an water-related hazards and their impacts; advocacy campaign on DPM to enhance the visibil- (b) Building capacity for weather-, water-, and ity of NMHSs; (b) a fundraising campaign in support climate-related hazard mapping and data input of regional and national DPM-related projects; and and expertise in support of hydrometeorological (c) enhanced communication and knowledge transfer risk assessment; on DPM-related matters. (c) Education, training and public outreach 11.7 The Association acknowledged that three fact- programmes and related modules for NMHSs; fi nding preliminary projects, namely: (a) regional-level (d) DPM-related emergency response support to DPM assessments; (b) country-level DPM assessments; NMHSs for the provision of forecasts and other and (c) documentation of DPM activities of major relevant post-disaster services, in support of their WMO Programmes, were being implemented. The activities during emergency response operations. Association noted that the goal was to analyse DPM 11.11 The Association noted the leading role capabilities as well as major gaps and needs in all of WMO in participating in: (a) the Global Survey WMO Regions (regional capacities) and for all WMO of Early Warning Systems requested by the United Members (national capacities), and, in parallel, to Nations Secretary-General; (b) the third International systematically document the current status of WMO Conference on Early Warning, sponsored by the Programme activities related to DPM at the regional Government of Germany and held in March 2006 and national levels. The Association stressed that in Bonn (Germany); and (c) the development of the the outcomes of those assessments would be critical International Early Warning Programme being facili- to identifying WMO DPM goals and priorities in the tated by the ISDR Platform for the Promotion of Early area of DPM for each Region. The Association urged Warning. Members to send their responses to the country-level 11.12 The Association noted the recommenda- DPM assessments, if they had not already done so. tion made by ISDR that, to be effective, early warning 11.8 The Association noted that those results systems must be people-centered and must integrate would be reviewed and analysed during a meeting four elements: (a) knowledge of the risks faced; (b) of the Executive Council Advisory Group on Natural a technical monitoring and warning service; (c) the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation in late 2006 to dissemination of meaningful warnings to those at provide recommendations for WMO’s strategic goals risk; and (d) public awareness and preparedness to act. GENERAL SUMMARY 35
Failure in any one of those elements could mean fail- Warning System (see also general summary paragraph ure of the whole early warning system. 4.3.8). The Association also noted that WMO, in close 11.13 The Association acknowledged that with collaboration with IOC, was taking the initiative to a deep commitment to fostering partnerships for assist Members in enhancing warning capacities and advancing the Hyogo Framework for Action, particu- educational and training programmes of the NMHSs larly related to identifying, assessing and monitoring which had been designated as national tsunami focal disaster risks and enhancing early warnings, follow- points by their respective governments. ing the third International Conference on Early 11.16 The Association stressed that WMO, in Warning, WMO was planning a multi-agency meet- collaboration with SOPAC, should support and assist ing of experts, the Symposium on Multi-Hazard Members in developing national disaster plans and Early Warning Systems for Integrated Disaster Risk urged its Members to participate actively in the prep- Management, to be held from 23 to 24 May 2006, aration of their national plans. Furthermore, that at WMO Headquarters in Geneva (Switzerland). The process would aid in strengthening their linkages to Symposium would convene a multidisciplinary group the national disaster platforms and national emer- of experts to discuss major challenges and recom- gency structures. mend an implementation framework, with concrete 11.17 The Association noted the critical need for actions at international, regional and national levels strategic partnerships with other organizations at the to address legal, legislative, fi nancial, organizational, international, regional and national levels, based on scientifi c and technical, operational, training and their complementary roles and activities and their capacity-building aspects for the implementation of value added towards advancing DPM goals. At the effective end-to-end early warning systems. international level, the Association specifi cally noted 11.14 The Association noted that natural disasters the partnerships initiated by the DPM Programme in caused by a wide range of extreme hydrometeorologi- support of the DPM activities of Members, specifi - cal conditions, such as tropical cyclones, monsoons cally noting the ISDR, UNESCO and IOC, the World and fl oods, as well as other hazards, such as earth- Bank, the International Federation of Red Cross and quakes and tsunamis, presented a signifi cant risk in Red Crescent Societies, UNDP, the United Nations RA V. The Association further stressed that understand- Offi ce for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs ing the linkages between climate change and climate and the United Nations Insitute for Training and variability and extreme hydrometeorological events Research. The Association acknowledged the partner- would be crucial for the development of preventive ship with ESCAP for hosting the Typhoon Committee measures in the Region. The Association noted that in the Asia-Pacifi c region over the last four decades. the activities of WMO under the cross-cutting frame- The Association urged further strengthening of part- work of the DPM Programme in RA V should be nerships with ASEAN, the IOC Sub-Commission for aligned with the Pacifi c Disaster Risk Reduction and the Western Pacifi c and SOPAC, particularly through Disaster Management Framework for Action 2006– the identifi cation of clear joint goals and activities. 2015, that had been endorsed by the leaders at the The Association also urged NMHSs to seek targeted Pacifi c Islands Forum meeting held in October 2005 partnerships at the national level and through partici- as part of the Pacifi c Plan for Strengthening Regional pation in the national disaster reduction platforms. Cooperation and Integration. The Draft Strategy for 11.18 The Association noted a critical issue faced Enhancing Early Warning for Pacifi c Island Countries by some RA V Members in trying to put into place related to one of the fi ve themes under the Pacifi c an early warning system, namely the high costs Framework and had been developed by regional agen- involved in acquiring and maintaining the various cies and development partners under the leadership software needed for the system. The Association asked of SOPAC. WMO to explore the possible ways and means so that 11.15 The Association noted WMO’s contributions special consideration could be accorded to facilitate to the establishment of the Indian Ocean Tsunami the realization of disaster mitigation and prevention Warning System, particularly related to upgrading the measures. WMO GTS, where needed, for the exchange of tsunami- 11.19 The Association adopted Resolution 15 related information and warnings. The Association (XIV-RA V), which established a Working Group on stressed the potential vulnerability of its Members to Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. The tsunamis that were generated and propagated in the Association requested the Secretary-General to take Pacifi c Ocean, as underlined by the recent Tongan the necessary measures, within the available budgetary earthquake. It recognized the importance of the resources, to support the activities of the Group. The Pacifi c Tsunami Warning System in providing timely Association requested the Working Group, in liaison warning information to Members, as well as the need with the RA V Management Group and considering for Members themselves to develop their national relevant plans of the Association, to identify specifi c capabilities to receive and respond to the information. tasks to be undertaken. The Association therefore requested WMO to work 11.20 The Association urged the RA V Working closely with the IOC in enhancing communications Group on DPM, in consultation with the president and response capabilities in the Region and in of RA V and the WMO Secretariat, to take adequate encouraging Members to join the Pacifi c Tsunami actions in the preparation of a regional plan to support 36 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V the implementation of the DPM Programme in the comprised fi ve basic elements: projecting a unifi ed Region. and consolidated image of WMO and NMHSs; constituency-building both at the national and 12. WMO SPACE PROGRAMME — REGIONAL regional levels; spreading key messages giving a local ASPECTS (agenda item 12) voice to a global undertaking and vision; fostering strategic alliances with the media; and promoting WMO SPACE PROGRAMME IMPLEMENTATION PLAN a communication culture that would demonstrate 12.1 The Association noted that the WMO Space the high relevance of WMO and NMHSs to the daily Programme Implementation Plan for 2004–2007, as lives of all citizens of the world. In that context, the contained in Section 4 of and Annex III to the report of Association noted with appreciation the increased the fourth session of the WMO Consultative Meetings interaction between the WMO Communications and on High-level Policy on Satellite Matters (the report Public Affairs Offi ce and national Information and is available at: http://www.wmo.int/web/sat/publica- Public Affairs (IPA) Focal Points and the electronic tions/CM-4_Final_Report.doc), had been approved access for Members to the quarterly WMO press by the fi fty-sixth session of the WMO Executive review. The Association encouraged its Members to Council, and that the Implementation Plan provided provide their IPA Focal Points with the necessary further details to the WMO Space Programme Long- support to discharge their responsibilities effectively. term Strategy as approved in the 6LTP by Fourteenth In light of the invitation by Congress to strengthen Congress. regional public outreach activities, the Association 12.2 The Association agreed that it would assign a called upon its Members to consider designating a rapporteur to work with the WMO Space Programme regional IPA Focal Point who might work for a short for the implementation of regional aspects of the period with the Communications and Public Affairs WMO Space Programme Implementation Plan and, Offi ce at WMO Headquarters to launch regionally in particular, regional advanced dissemination meth- targeted outreach activities. The Focal Point would ods within the context of the planned Integrated be the team leader of a core group of IPA Focal Global Data Dissemination Service. In that regard, Points of NMHSs which would assist the Secretariat the Association appointed a Rapporteur for the in promoting the image of WMO and NMHSs at the WMO Space Programme with the terms of reference regional level. The Association welcomed the invita- contained in Resolution 16 (XIV-RA V), which was tion addressed to United Nations offi ces in the fi eld adopted. for enhanced interaction with NMHSs. 12.3 The Association agreed that WMO, through 13.3 The Association welcomed the initia- its Space Programme, had acted as a catalyst to greatly tive to consult Members on WMO publications and improve the utilization of satellite data and products. expressed great satisfaction with the revamped Bulletin The Virtual Laboratory for Education and Training in and MeteoWorld. Those new products were available in Satellite Meteorology had already made a consider- print copy and online. The Association also welcomed able impact through its “centres of excellence”. The the online News entry and invited its Members to Association was pleased to see the integration of the contribute up-to-date information about their activi- new research and development (R&D) constellation ties that were of interest to the general public. into education and training activities. It also noted 13.4 The Association took note of the numerous that the WMO Space Programme Long-term Strategy press releases and Info Notes issued on specifi c WMO and associated Implementation Plan provided for topics related to weather, climate and water, and on increased utilization of the Virtual Laboratory to the activities aimed at preventing and mitigating natural benefi t of WMO Members, especially for fuller exploi- disasters. It requested the Secretary-General to pursue tation of R&D data, products and services, as well as his efforts in keeping the media fully briefed on major those from new and existing operational meteorologi- issues involving WMO and NMHSs. cal satellite systems. 13.5 The Association noted the increase in visits by the public to WMO Headquarters, notably by students 13. INFORMATION AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS on study tours from universities and academic institu- PROGRAMME — REGIONAL tions from the Region. ASPECTS (agenda item 13) 13.6 The Association encouraged its Members to 13.1 The Association recalled that Resolution 23 translate into local languages and widely disseminate (Cg-XIV) — Information and Public Affairs Programme, the cartoon, We care for our climate (WMO-No. 975). had underlined the need for greater visibility of the 13.7 In response to Resolution 23 (Cg-XIV), Organization and NMHSs, the importance of commu- the Association invited its Members to ensure nications in mitigating the devastating impact of mutual assistance and support in matters related to extreme weather and climate events, and the need public information and communication, including for a WMO Global Communication Strategy to guide partnerships and constituency-building, resource and enhance the process of making NMHSs and WMO mobilization and closer cooperation with the media, more visible and better appreciated. non-governmental organizations and advocacy 13.2 The Association welcomed the Global groups, academic circles, parliamentarians, schools, Communication Strategy of the Organization which universities, national meteorological and hydrological GENERAL SUMMARY 37 societies, the private sector and corporate foundations Technology and Human Development” Exhibition, and other civil society institutions and public fi gures. held at the United Nations Headquarters in New 13.8 The Association recalled the request made York (United States) from 11 to 22 October 2004; the by Congress that the best possible use of available and tenth session of the UNFCCC COP, held in Buenos extrabudgetary resources be made to strengthen the Aires (Argentina) from 6 to 17 December 2004; the IPA Programme. It further noted with appreciation the International Meeting to Review the Implementation private sector sponsoring of WMO greeting cards and of the Programme of Action for the Sustainable the electronic access to them for NMHSs which allowed Development of Small Island Developing States, them to freely use the card while adding their logo. held in Mauritius from 10 to 14 January 2005; the 13.9 The Association requested the Secretary- WCDR, held in Kobe, Hyogo (Japan), from 18 to 22 General to ensure that the IPA Programme continued January 2005; the European Earth and Space Week, to take advantage of available technologies for timely held in Brussels (Belgium) from 12 to 20 February transmission and easy access to the media and public 2005; the seventh session of the UNCCD COP, held information materials issued by WMO and NMHSs. in Nairobi (Kenya) from 17 to 28 October 2005; It welcomed the continued development of the News the eleventh session of the UNFCCC COP and the Centre on the WMO website and the actions taken to fi rst meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol, establish a linkage between the WMO website and those held in Montreal (Canada) from 28 November to of NMHSs. The Association requested Members to take 9 December 2005; and the third Conference on steps to set up on the front page of their websites an Early Warning, held in Bonn (Germany) from 27 entry on WMO which identifi ed the Service as being to 29 March 2006. Such campaigns encompassed part of a world system and showed the public how press conferences, information kits, specifi c media NMHSs worked with WMO. The Association encour- products and exhibitions. The Association noted aged its Members to make use of the “News from with appreciation that the activities of WMO and WMO Members” segment of the online News Centre. its Members had also been given visibility at vari- Furthermore, it welcomed the electronic access for ous international exhibitions and events in Geneva NMHSs to publications and artwork for major events, (Switzerland), and in the United Nations Pavilion at including World Meteorological Day. EXPO 2005 in Japan. 13.10 The Association welcomed WMO’s outreach 13.13 The Association saw great benefi t in the public activities for radio and television networks and service announcements aired by CNN International, communication professionals. It requested the on the initiative of WMO, to enhance visibility of the Secretary-General to undertake further training activi- relevance of the activities of NMHSs. In addition, a ties for NMHSs aimed at improving their presentation 12-minute fi lm in English entitled The Other Side of and communication skills. Paradise had been produced for television on WMO’s 13.11 The Association noted with appreciation the contribution to the sustainable development of SIDS. comprehensive public information kit for World Water The fi lm had also been shown to participants at the Day in 2004 on the theme of “Water and Disasters”, International Meeting to Review the Implementation developed and disseminated worldwide by WMO, of the Programme of Action for the Sustainable which, jointly with ISDR, had been the lead agency Development of Small Island Developing States and within the United Nations system for the global public the WCDR. The Other Side of Paradise had been chosen information campaign about the Day. A website and as an exhibit at Stories from the Field, the fi rst United e-mail address for World Water Day in 2004 had been Nations Documentary Film Festival. set up by WMO. The Association welcomed the public 13.14 The Association welcomed the progress information products disseminated to all Members in made in the “branding” of the Organization, and the support of national plans for the celebration of World fact that the subtitle “weather, climate and water” Meteorological Day in 2004 on the theme of “Weather, featured prominently on all offi cial documentation, Climate and Water in the Information Age”, in 2005 on correspondence and publications, as requested by the theme of “Weather, Climate, Water and Sustainable Congress. Development”, and in 2006 on the theme of “Preventing 13.15 The Association called upon Members to take and Mitigating Natural Disasters”. The Association appropriate measures to support the IPA Programme, requested the Secretary-General to arrange for the timely to develop an active public information programme at transmission of WMO information materials to NMHSs the national and regional levels and to implement the in order to allow for timely outreach to the public. WMO Global Communication Strategy, giving a local 13.12 The Association requested the Secretary- voice to a global vision, and to make relevant material General to arrange for the participation of the produced at national level available to the Secretariat. Secretariat in relevant international exhibitions in 13.16 The Association noted with satisfaction the order to promote the visibility of WMO and NMHSs. efforts of the Subregional Offi ce in Samoa as an infor- It welcomed the information campaigns set up by mation focal point in the Region. In order to enhance the IPA Programme on the occasion of major events, WMO’s IPA Programme in the Region, it requested such as the 150th Anniversary of International the Subregional Offi ce to further support the efforts of Cooperation in Meteorology, held in Brussels Association Members in promoting public information (Belgium) from 17 to 18 November 2003; the “Space activities. 38 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
14. LONG-TERM PLANNING — REGIONAL 14.8 The Association noted that an evaluation of ASPECTS (agenda item 14) the implementation of the 6LTP and the nine WMO strategies had been carried out. It further noted that GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS that evaluation had been mainly qualitative and 14.1 The Association agreed on the importance had been based on input from programmes and of identifying what WMO should be aspiring to as a a draft WMO Secretariat programme performance basis for the WMO long-term planning, particularly report for the biennium 2004–2005. The Assocation in connection with its leadership role. The Association agreed on the need for quantitative measures of further agreed that information about the issues that performance which should be included in the 7LTP concerned Members would help in formulating an framework. effective strategy on how to address those concerns. For the Region, those included the mitigation of PREPARATION OF THE SEVENTH natural disasters, improvement of forecasts, warnings WMO LONG-TERM PLAN and risks assessments, enhancement of communica- 14.9 The Association agreed that the following tions and improved understanding and prediction of trends, needs and developments should be taken into climate change and variability. account in the preparation of the 7LTP: 14.2 The Association underscored the importance (a) Increasing diversifi cation of economies; of support to policy formulation and implementation (b) Developments in science and technology; by WMO (and NMHSs) in relation to natural disasters, (c) Responses to climate change; climate and water, as well as in other sectors such as (d) Need for relevant investments in developing aviation, agriculture, health and planning. countries; 14.3 The Association agreed on the importance (e) Need for capacity-building and bridging the of ensuring better appreciation of the socio-economic gaps; value of NMHS products in the planning process. (f) Need for effective early warning systems includ- WMO and NMHSs, in partnership with other agen- ing backup situations. cies and user groups, should undertake studies on 14.10 The Association also agreed that attention the social and economic value of meteorological and should be given to poverty alleviation, rapid changes related products. Those could help to secure better in information technology, increasing competitiveness recognition of, and more adequate resources for, WMO among stakeholders in a growing market economy, and NMHSs, thus enabling further improvement in changes in science and technology, and research needs services. to accommodate various challenges. 14.4 The Association considered that the WMO 14.11 The Association agreed on the following Long-term Plans were of use to it as they provided priority areas of concern for Region V: broad guidance, especially for the further develop- (a) Natural disaster prevention and reduction, espe- ment of relevant service provision in the future. They cially improving early warning systems through also facilitated the better organization of WMO’s work, timely dissemination of information, enhanced as well as that of RA V and its Members’ NMHSs. communications systems (including backup) and access to data and products relating to tropi- SIXTH WMO LONG-TERM PLAN cal cyclones, fl oods, severe thunderstorms, fl ash 14.5 The Association expressed its appreciation for fl oods, monsoons, earthquakes, tsunamis and the publication of the 6LTP and a separate summary for other extreme weather events; decision makers which identifi ed the results expected (b) Maintenance and strengthening of the WWW and how those would be realized. It noted that that Programme, in particular WWW regional aspects would help governments to better understand the of GTS, GOS and GDPFS, with high priority given way in which WMO and Members’ NMHSs worked to taking into consideration system life cycles. In and their contributions, thus helping them to obtain that connection, the capacity of RSMC Nadi and enhanced fi nancial and other support. ASMC Singapore should be further strengthened 14.6 The Association agreed on the importance of to enhance services and products provided to ensuring the appropriate implementation of the 6LTP, NMCs in the Region; as well as the related monitoring and evaluation of its (c) Improved understanding and prediction of the implementation. The Association requested its presi- nature of climate change and variability as well dent to ensure that the relevant contribution expected as droughts and extreme weather events in the from RA V was provided in the pertinent evaluation Region, especially with respect to the impact of process, particularly with respect to the realization of sea level rise on low-lying islands and countries the nine WMO strategies. with extensive coastlines; 14.7 The Association felt that in the implementa- (d) Implementation of operational hydrology activ- tion of the 6LTP it was important to bear in mind that ities in the Region, in particular assistance to WMO and NMHSs had to address diverse interests foster the implementation of Pacifi c-HYCOS to and needs, and that the operating environment also prevent the increasing scarcity, gradual destruc- continued to change. In that regard, the implementa- tion and increased pollution of freshwater tion of the 6LTP should be adapted to those changes. resources; GENERAL SUMMARY 39
(e) Enhancement of human resources development assisted by Mr G.R. Foley (Australia), who served as through education and training activities, with rapporteur. particular emphasis on continuing education and 15.1.3 During the session, the Association high- training, especially for SIDS and LDCs in the South- lighted the following regional concerns and West Pacifi c region; priorities: (f) Strengthening the collaboration with relevant (a) The observation network: There were concerns regional bodies, especially ASEAN, ESCAP, the about the effectiveness of the observation system IOC Sub-Commission for the Western Pacifi c, in the Region as a basis for weather and climate SPREP and SOPAC. services. The provision of suitable instrumenta- In connection with the above, the Association referred tion for observations made by SIDS would enable to its discussions under agenda item 15.1: Brainstorming better reporting of a more complete set of weather with emphasis on special concerns of the Region, in and climate elements. which the following regional concerns and priorities (b) Communication networks: Incorporating were identifi ed and addressed: regional communication networks into WIS was (a) The observation network; a challenge in the Region. An effective commu- (b) Communication networks; nication system with appropriate bandwidth was (c) Weather, climate and water services; critical to operations throughout the Region as (d) Aviation weather services; the volume of data was increasing signifi cantly. (e) Research; As communication costs were high in the Pacifi c, (f) Training; which limited data communication, opportu- (g) Capacity-building; nities existed to utilize specialized systems for (h) Sustainability; aeronautical meteorology, RANET, HF radio and (i) Interaction with other agencies and institutions. EMWIN and possible future partnerships as had 14.12 The Association was informed of the delib- occurred with EUMETCast in Europe. erations of the Executive Council Working Group (c) Weather, climate and water services: The need on Long-term Planning, which had met from 28 to to further strengthen NWP capability and use 31 March 2006 in Geneva, relating to WMO long-term within the Region was seen as a priority by planning. Those included the proposal for develop- some Members. That included issues such as ing a WMO Strategic Plan (2008–2011) with strong the affordability of components and ingesting emphasis on enhanced performance assessment data and fi elds to facilitate running the models. through the identifi cation of expected results, key Challenges in providing forecasting and seasonal performance indicators and key performance targets. outlook services in SIDS, particularly in a tropical The Association stressed the importance of addressing environment, with predictability expected on a the concerns of stakeholders in the development of range of scales from seasonal to nowcasting were the Strategic Plan. highlighted. The provision of effective warn- ing services was of key importance, especially in RA V STRATEGIC PLAN support of disaster mitigation strategies. Tsunami 14.13 Consistent with the WMO long-term plan- warning services were a priority. Storm surge ning system, the Association also discussed the modelling was also important. Dealing with the development of its RA V Strategic Plan (see agenda media in light of an increase in the globalization item 16.3). The Association underscored the impor- of media services was a challenge in the Region. tance of ensuring a strong linkage between the RA V (d) Aviation weather services: Enhancement of avia- Plan and the overall WMO Long-term Plan. A suitable tion weather services in SIDS was a priority. mechanism should be in place for the development of Aviation also played a major role in the provision the RA V Strategic Plan; the Association requested its of humanitarian relief and was dependent on the president to oversee that process. rapid recovery of aviation weather services in a post-disaster environment. The WMO/ICAO part- 15. EMERGING ISSUES AND SPECIFIC nership in training needed to continue. CHALLENGES (agenda item 15) (e) Research: More research work on the La Niña phenomenon, particularly regarding predictabil- 15.1 BRAINSTORMING WITH EMPHASIS ON SPECIAL ity in the critical transition period between “wet” CONCERNS OF THE REGION (agenda item 15.1) and “dry” seasons, was needed for longer-term 15.1.1 The Association held a special brainstorm- forecasting, and there was a need to continue ing session to identify and discuss the special research into regional weather and climate concerns of the Region, in particular the ways to phenomena. enhance regional cooperation in order to contribute (f) Training: The need to build capacity in manage- to improving services provided by NMHSs through- ment and administrative training for NHMSs in out the Region and to optimize the use of their order to produce effective plans was underscored. resources. Assistance was still required in general meteoro- 15.1.2 The Association carried out the brainstorm- logical training as well as that for the provision of ing under the chairmanship of the acting president new services such as tsunami early warnings. 40 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
(g) Capacity-building: There was a need to look for ESCAP for the implementation of those programmes opportunities to improve the overall infrastruc- in RA V. ture throughout the region through funding 15.2.4 The Association recalled that the Fourteenth gained by undertaking specifi c projects, taking World Meteorological Congress in May 2003 had advantage of the inherent strengths of NHMSs established the WMO Programme for the LDCs, to attract those resources. Strengthening part- with the main objective of improving the capaci- nerships between developed countries and LDCs ties of the NMHSs of LDCs to contribute effectively for the mutual benefi t of both was stressed. to the sustainable development of the countries Development of an effective strategic plan that concerned. delivered the desired outcomes for the Region 15.2.5 Recognizing the importance of the WMO was proposed. Programme for the LDCs, the Association requested (h) Sustainability: Funding diffi culties were being the Secretary-General and Members to pursue their encountered by many Members in terms of the efforts for its effective implementation for the benefi t provision of basic observations and services. of the LDCs in the Region. There was a lack of funding support to maintain 15.2.6 The Association requested the Secretary- basic, robust operations for SIDS. Any support General to ensure that WMO actively participated in received needed to be considered from a sustain- the mid-term comprehensive review of the implemen- ability view-point, not as a one-off investment tation of the Brussels Programme of Action for LDCs with little or no follow-up. at the regional level in collaboration and coordination (i) Interaction with other agencies and institutions: with ESCAP and other partners. There was a need to strengthen the Region’s interaction with other agencies (e.g. SPREP and 15.3 EVALUATION OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC SOPAC) on Pacifi c-wide environmental issues, BENEFITS (agenda item 15.3) such as adaptation to climate change. At the 15.3.1 The Association expressed its apprecia- same time, there was a need for consistent and tion to the Secretary-General for having planned independent reporting of WMO activities in to organize the WMO International Conference the Region to gain a more enhanced profi le, on Secure and Sustainable Living: Social and in addition to reporting them through other Economic Benefi ts of Weather, Climate and Water forums. Enhancement of the capability of the Services, to be held in Madrid (Spain) from 19 to WMO Subregional Offi ce in Apia (Samoa) was 22 March 2007. underscored. 15.3.2 The socio-economic benefi t studies presented 15.1.4 The Association took those concerns and at the International Conference should help to priorities into account in connection with agenda demonstrate NMHSs’ contribution to the realization items 14: Long-term planning — Regional aspects and of national development goals. Hence, the resources 16.3: Strategic Action Plan for the Development of attributed to NMHSs could and should be seen as Meteorology in the Pacifi c Region 2000–2009. investments rather than expenditures. 15.3.3 The Association agreed that the Conference’s 15.2 FOLLOW-UP ON MULTILATERAL scope and objectives should be such as to gener- DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS ate a better appreciation of the relevant social and (agenda item 15.2) economic benefi ts available to the wide range of 15.2.1 The Association expressed its appreciation to pertinent stakeholders. The participation of such the Secretary-General for the follow-up on multilat- stakeholders, including decision makers, user groups, eral development agreements. development planners, economists and social scien- 15.2.2 The Association requested the Secretary- tists, should be strongly encouraged. Moreover, special General to continue to contribute to the implementation efforts should be extended to facilitate the participa- of the programmes for action, or the relevant resolu- tion of some eminent fi gures, which would help to tions or decisions adopted at summits and conferences give further credence and draw special attention to such as the United Nations Millennium Summit (New the Conference. York, 2000), the third United Nations Conference on 15.3.4 In view of the limited capacity of NMHSs in Least Developed Countries (Brussels, 2001), the WSSD RA V, in particular in developing countries, in terms (Johannesburg, 2002), the World Food Summit (Rome, of socio-economic benefi t studies, the Association 2002), the World Summit on the Information Society requested the Secretary-General to assist NMHSs to (Geneva, 2003; Tunis, 2005), the International Meeting increase their capacities in that area through national to Review the Implementation of the Programme of training seminars/workshops. Action for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States (Mauritius, 2005), the second WCDR 15.4 EVOLUTION OF WMO AND NMHSS — (Kobe, Hyogo, 2005), and other relevant regional and R EGIONAL ASPECTS (agenda item 15.4) international strategies and Plans of Action. 15.4.1 The role and operation of NMHSs were 15.2.3 The Association requested the Secretary- closely linked to many other issues of major interest General to develop relevant projects and enter into to WMO and NMHSs. It was also recognized that such special agreements with the European Commission and links should be carefully considered and should be GENERAL SUMMARY 41 such as to help WMO, its Members and their NMHSs of identifying appropriate actions that might be taken to strengthen complementary and strategic alliances by NMHSs and WMO. as well as to meet the major challenges facing the 15.4.8 The Association agreed that it was impor- Organization and its commitments. In that connec- tant to address the relevant priority areas of concern tion, the Association considered that the particular which provided challenges and opportunities for its issues of interest to the Region were: Members. The Association therefore called upon its (a) Strengthening the activities of WMO and NMHSs Members to take appropriate action. Moreover, it felt with partners in dealing with natural disasters that the Directors of NMHSs should be proactive in and poverty; that regard. (b) Sustainable development; (c) Promotion of cooperation with NMHSs in other POSSIBLE CHANGES TO THE WMO CONVENTION Regions; 15.4.9 The Association expressed its appreciation to (d) Capacity-building for human resources and institu- the chairperson of the Executive Council Task Team to tional development as part of bridging the gap. Explore and Assess the Possible Changes to the WMO Convention for his work and took note of his report. STATEMENT ON THE ROLE AND OPERATION OF NMHSS The Association looked forward to a full discussion of 15.4.2 The Association recalled that the Executive that matter at the fi fty-eighth session of the Executive Council had agreed that two outward-looking Council in June 2006. Executive Council statements on the role and opera- tion of NMHSs would be prepared, namely: 15.5 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE OF DATA (a) A succinct, forceful and well-targeted statement AND PRODUCTS (agenda item 15.5) addressed to decision makers; 15.5.1 The Association noted various developments (b) A more extended statement for Directors and other relating to the international exchange of meteoro- senior offi cials of NMHSs for their guidance. logical, hydrological, oceanographic and aeronautical 15.4.3 The Council had agreed on its statement relat- meteorological data and products. ing to decision makers (see Annex III to the present 15.5.2 The Association encouraged its Members to report). That statement described the international continue their support of the international exchange of settings which were of interest to decision makers and meteorological and related data and products, particu- urged support for NMHSs from the decision makers, larly by observing the letter and spirit of Resolution 40 by identifying what they did and how that contrib- (Cg-XII) — WMO policy and practice for the exchange of uted to meeting societal needs and national strategic meteorological and related data and products including planning. guidelines on relationships in commercial meteorologi- 15.4.4 In that connection, the Association agreed cal activities, and Resolution 25 (Cg-XIII) — Exchange of with the Council on the importance of a commu- hydrological data and products. nication strategy to help facilitate the favourable 15.5.3 The Association recognized that Members consideration of those statements and other relevant had certain concerns in connection with the interna- WMO position papers by decision makers. tional exchange and provision of meteorological and related data and products at the national level. It there- ROLE AND OPERATION OF NATIONAL HYDROLOGICAL fore requested the Secretary-General to arrange for SERVICES Members to be provided with additional information 15.4.5 The Association also recognized the need and guidance material relating to the implementa- to address the more general question of enhanc- tion of Resolution 40 (Cg-XII), taking into account ing the role of NHSs in the framework of WMO. The relevant experiences gained since the Resolution had Association recalled that the Council, noting the been adopted. diverse but close relationship between NMSs and 15.5.4 The Association expressed its concern about NHSs, had requested that consideration be given to the adverse impact on VOS data availability caused how that diverse range of relationships could best be by the potentially serious risks associated with the represented in the framework of WMO. availability of VOS call signs and position data. The Association stressed that urgent appropriate meas- OTHER CONSIDERATIONS ures needed to be taken (see also general summary 15.4.6 The Association recognized the impor- paragraph 7.4.9). tance of and need for strengthening the capacities 15.5.5 The Association also reiterated the importance of NMHSs, particularly through training in such of ensuring the appropriate exchange of hydrological relatively new areas as management, partnerships, and climate data and products. networking, communication, user interaction, cost recovery, commercialization, and valuation of the 15.6 WMO QUALITY MANAGEMENT socio-economic benefi ts of meteorological and related FRAMEWORK (agenda item 15.6) services. 15.6.1 The Association recalled that Fourteenth 15.4.7 The Association also emphasized the impor- Congress had decided through Resolution 27 (Cg-XIV) tance of continually assessing the role and operation that WMO should work towards a Quality Management of NMHSs in light of the rapid changes occurring and Framework (QMF) for NMSs which would eventually 42 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
include and develop the following distinct, though 15.8 INTERNAL MATTERS OF WMO related, elements which could be addressed possibly (agenda item 15.8) on a phased basis: 15.8.1 The Association took advantage of the (a) WMO technical standards; Secretary-General’s presence at the session to hold a (b) Quality management system(s) including quality discussion on internal matters of WMO of concern control; to Members of the Region, particularly in connec- (c) Certifi cation procedure(s). tion with ongoing reform in the WMO Secretariat, 15.6.2 The Association felt that further training in including developments in the improvement of the Region was necessary and requested the Secretary- the internal control of administrative and fi nancial General to organize capacity-building efforts, and to procedures. consider training attachments to other NMHSs already 15.8.2 In his presentation, the Secretary-General practising quality management. The Association informed the Association of the continuing efforts agreed that training events, such as regional technical being made through the three-phased Secretariat conferences to be held in the Region, should address action plan, which was aimed at restoring integrity, the WMO QMF by including that topic in their promoting transparency and improving effi ciency. He programmes. underscored the strengthened oversight in referring to 15.6.3 The Association urged Members whose NMSs the responsibilities and work of the Audit Committee had successfully implemented a quality manage- established by the fi fty-sixth session of the Executive ment system to share their experiences with others by Council; the establishment of the communication making relevant documents available for information line; the new structure of the Internal Oversight Offi ce, and guidance as well as by direct exchange through and so forth. The strengthening of fi nancial controls expert visits within the Region. included the submission of original documents, special 15.6.4 The Association noted recent requirements procedures for the payment of fi nancial support, which involving certifi cation. The Association noted that required the signature of a Letter of Agreement for any implementing a quality management framework expenditure of more than CHF 4 000; the promulga- certifi cation process might not be easily affordable for tion of the Financial Rules; the segregation of duties; some Members of Region V. Therefore, the Association the implementation of the Oracle automation project; inquired if WMO would be providing assistance. and the annual audit of fi nancial statements. With Members were informed that the WMO Secretariat was respect to procurements, there had been increased investigating alternatives for closer collaboration with outsourcing for support activities; single sourcing had the International Organization for Standardization been avoided; competitive bidding had been encour- which would increase international recognition of aged, including for donor-supported purchasing; and WMO technical standards and could result in more there had been strict adherence to bidding outcomes. affordable alternatives to formal certifi cation. 15.8.3 With regard to staff issues, the Secretary- General informed the Association on the work being 15.7 GROUP ON EARTH OBSERVATIONS undertaken towards the adoption of a code of ethics PROCESS (agenda item 15.7) for Secretariat staff; fi nancial disclosure and declara- 15.7.1 The Association noted the information on tion of interests by all Directors and staff with regard activities related to GEO as well as from the fi fty- to investments, procurement and accounting duties; sixth session of the WMO Executive Council, which fraud training to raise awareness relative to fraud had adopted Resolution 9 (EC-LVI) — Global Earth detection and prevention; establishing a risk manage- Observation System of Systems, affi rming its full ment framework; new rules and procedures governing support for the GEO process and resulting GEOSS. the hiring of short-term staff; and new procedures to 15.7.2 The Association noted that Resolution 9 support staff mobility within the Secretariat. Progress (EC-LVI) encouraged WMO Members to work closely made in the area of the WMO Secretariat’s institutional with other Earth observation agencies at the national transparency included the regular dissemination of level to ensure the development of well-coordinated information to the Permanent Representatives through national plans for GEOSS implementation. In that circular letters on major issues; enhancing communi- regard, it appointed a Rapporteur for the GEOSS to cation through the MeteoWorld newsletter, the WMO work on regional implementation aspects of the Bulletin and the website; and regular presentations GEOSS Implementation Plan with the terms of refer- to Missions based in Geneva. The Secretary-General ence as contained in Resolution 17 (XIV-RA V), which encouraged RA V Members to contribute to the was adopted. MeteoWorld newsletter. 15.7.3 The Association observed that the cost of 15.8.4 The Secretary-General informed the participating in the GEO might not be affordable for Association that a Fellowships Committee had been developing countries and SIDS. The Association was established in January 2004 to maintain a fair selec- informed that that concern was being discussed and tion procedure for WMO fellowships; the fellowships considered by GEO members, specifi cally to ensure database had been established and improved with that it was clear that there were no GEO membership the Oracle fi nancial system; a manual on policies and fees, and that fellowships might be available to help procedures for fellowships would be submitted to the some Members. fi fty-eighth session of the Executive Council; and GENERAL SUMMARY 43 post-fellowship monitoring and follow-up had been recommended that the fi fth Technical Conference on further strengthened. In connection with the latter, Management of Meteorological Services in Regional the Permanent Representatives of RA V Members were Association V be held during the fi fteenth fi nancial requested to ensure that reports on fellows’ activities period. after their return were provided. 16.1.4 The Association also expressed its appreciation 15.8.5 The Secretary-General emphasized that to the Secretary-General for having planned to organ- improving effi ciency within the WMO Secretariat was ize a regional seminar of alternative service delivery an ongoing process so as to provide better services to and NMHS administration during the second bien- Members, who would be kept informed of relevant nium (2006–2007) of the fourteenth fi nancial period. It developments as they evolved. agreed that the topics of the seminar should include the 15.8.6 The Association expressed its appreciation to the following: Secretary-General for the information provided as well as (a) Resource mobilization; the opportunity to clarify matters under that agenda item (b) Ways to improve the effi ciency of NMHSs; and consider suggestions for further improvement. (c) Raising the visibility of NMHSs; (d) Strategic planning. 16. OTHER REGIONAL ACTIVITIES 16.1.5. The Association welcomed the invita- (agenda item 16) tion extended by the representative of Fiji to host the regional seminar, subject to the approval of his 16.1 FIFTH TECHNICAL CONFERENCE ON Government. MANAGEMENT OF METEOROLOGICAL SERVICES IN REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V 16.2 INTERNAL MATTERS OF THE (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC) (agenda item 16.1) ASSOCIATION (agenda item 16.2) 16.1.1 The Association expressed its appreciation to the Secretary-General for having assisted Members in REPORT OF THE ADVISORY WORKING GROUP OF RA V developing their NMHSs, particularly by organizing 16.2.1 The Association noted with appreciation regional events, including technical conferences on the reports of the meetings of the RA V Advisory management to enable them to exchange views on, and Working Group (AWG). The Association complimented share experience in, the management and operation of Mr W.S. Lai, the former president, and Mr A. Ngari, the the Services. The Association noted with appreciation acting president, who had served as chairpersons of the that the fourth Technical Conference on Management RA V AWG, and members of the Group for the activities of Meteorological and Hydrological Services in RA V carried out according to its terms of reference, in particu- had been held in Apia from 5 to 9 December 2005 lar the work of RA V working groups and rapporteurs, as at the kind invitation of the Government of Samoa. well as the implementation of the WMO Programmes The Association expressed satisfaction that 14 of its and activities in the Region. The AWG also had identifi ed Members and one non-Member had participated in several issues addressing, among others, arrangements the Conference, and that many Directors and senior for developing the satellite observation system, assist- offi cials of NMHSs had presented lectures or case stud- ance to RSMC Nadi, the climate-related activities carried ies on various topics. out in RA V and training issues. 16.1.2 The Association noted with satisfaction that 16.2.2 The Association, in recognizing the Fourteenth Congress had acknowledged the impor- importance of coordinating its activities, agreed to re- tance of seminars, workshops, study tours and technical establish the Advisory Working Group and to rename conferences. Considering that constant improvement it the Management Group of Regional Association V. in management techniques and practices was needed Accordingly, Resolution 18 (XIV-RA V) was adopted. for NMHSs to increase the effi ciency of their Services 16.2.3 The RA V Management Group was expected and to improve their ability to address the challenges to consider the optimal use of resources that might facing them under fi nancial and other constraints, be allocated or could be made available in connection the Association agreed that the topics discussed at the with the activities of the subsidiary bodies of RA V. Conference should be considered from the following: It might provide the basis for a rationalization of the (a) Strategic planning and management of NMHSs; number, nature and activities of the subsidiary bodies, (b) Human resources development and training of including rapporteurs. NMHS staff; (c) Building partnerships with stakeholders; REVIEW OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES (d) Public relations and interaction with the media; OF THE ASSOCIATION (e) Quality management practices; 16.2.4 The Association noted with appreciation (f) Roles of WMO and NMHSs – Regional and the information provided by the acting president on national perspectives; the activities of the RA V subsidiary bodies during (g) Disaster prevention and mitigation activities of the intersessional period. It expressed its satisfaction NMHSs and their incorporation into national for the working groups’ activities, but noted with planning. concern that many had not been able to perform 16.1.3 In considering the organization of such a satisfactorily for various reasons. The Association technical conference in the future, the Association encouraged Members to assist in ensuring that the 44 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V designated members of working groups and rappor- for the Further Implementation of the Programme teurs discharged their responsibilities effi ciently. of Action for the Sustainable Development of Small 16.2.5 The Association decided to make the neces- Island Developing States, the Hyogo Framework for sary arrangements to keep its subsidiary bodies active Action 2005–2015, the Pacifi c Plan for Strengthening throughout the intersessional period and to keep the Regional Cooperation and Integration, the Pacifi c Association informed of developments. In that regard, Disaster Risk Reduction and Disaster Management the Association, after examining the establishment of Framework for Action 2006–2015, the Pacifi c Islands relevant working groups and rapporteurs, recorded its Framework for Action on Climate Change 2006–2015, decisions under the relevant agenda items. and the WMO Long-term Plan. 16.2.6 The Association encouraged the chairpersons 16.3.5 The Association decided to develop a Strategic and members of working groups, as well as rappor- Plan for RA V which would encompass the Strategic teurs, to take all available opportunities to work very Action Plan for the Development of Meteorology in closely with each other and to facilitate the coordi- the Pacifi c Region 2000–2009. It established the Task nation of activities between the working groups and Team on the RA V Strategic Plan to assist the president rapporteurs. and the RA V Management Group in preparing the RA V Strategic Plan in light of developments relating 16.3 STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN FOR THE to the overall WMO Strategic Plan. The Assocation DEVELOPMENT OF METEOROLOGY IN THE requested the president to designate the chairperson PACIFIC REGION 2000–2009 and members of the Task Team after consultations. (agenda item 16.3) The Task Team would have the following terms of 16.3.1 The Association expressed its appreciation reference: to SPREP and RA V Members for having developed (a) To carry out its work under the general guidance the Strategic Action Plan for the Development of of, and in coordination with, the president of Meteorology in the Pacifi c Region 2000–2009, which RA V; had been endorsed by the SPREP Meeting of Regional (b) To develop the draft RA V Strategic Plan on the Meteorological Services Directors. The Association basis of the guidance provided by the fourteenth recalled that the thirteenth session of RA V had agreed session of RA V; that each Member should prepare its development (c) To regularly report to the president of RA V plan for NMSs and had considered that those should on progress made, and liaise with the RA V take into account national plans, the guidance avail- Management Group, as needed; able from WMO through its LTP, the Strategic Action (d) To undertake any other consultations and coordi- Plan and regional areas of concern endorsed by the nation that may be required; Association. The thirteenth session of RA V had also (e) To take into account relevant developments that underscored the fact that, to appropriately address may occur in the course of its work. those areas of concern, it would be necessary to ensure 16.3.6 The Association recommended that, in updat- the proper implementation of the Plan. ing the Strategic Action Plan for the Development of 16.3.2 The Association recalled that the thirteenth Meteorology in the Pacifi c Region 2000–2009 and in session of RA V had noted that, following the devel- the development of the RA V Strategic Plan, consid- opment of the Strategic Action Plan, SPREP had eration should be given to discussing with potential developed the Needs Analysis for the Strengthening donors funding for updating the Strategic Action of Pacifi c Islands Meteorological Services: Meeting Plan, the process of updating the Strategic Action the Challenges report. While the Strategic Action Plan and the funding of high-priority projects and Plan and the Needs Analysis report were comple- activities. menting the role of WWW and forming the basis for strengthening Pacifi c NMHSs, the Association 17. WMO REGIONAL OFFICE FOR ASIA AND further recalled that the thirteenth session of THE SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC, INCLUDING RA V had requested the Secretary-General to THE SUBREGIONAL OFFICE FOR THE continue efforts with resource mobilization and in SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC (agenda item 17) particular to seek potential external resources to 17.1 The Association reviewed the activities implement the development projects identifi ed in of the Regional Offi ce for Asia and the South-West the Needs Analysis report. Pacifi c and the Subregional Offi ce for the South-West 16.3.3 In that regard, the Association reiterated its Pacifi c since its thirteenth session. It noted that the request to the Secretary-General to secure resources for Offi ces were continuing their functions and respon- the full implementation of the projects identifi ed in sibilities as an integral part of the WMO Secretariat. the Needs Analysis report. The Association also noted the effective assistance 16.3.4 The Association recommended that the provided by the Offi ces to the president, vice-president Strategic Action Plan and the Needs Analysis report and subsidiary bodies of the Association in discharg- be revalidated and updated in view of recent inter- ing their responsibilities. It expressed its appreciation national and regional developments such as the to the Secretary-General and to the staff of the Offi ces Millennium Declaration, the Johannesburg Plan of for their continued support to the activities of the Implementation of the WSSD, the Mauritius Strategy Association during the intersessional period. GENERAL SUMMARY 45
17.2 The Association noted with satisfaction the in Apia (Samoa). The Association expressed support increasing role of the Regional Offi ce as a focal point for the idea of the thirteenth session of RA II (held and an information centre for regional activities and in Hong Kong, China, in December 2004) that the in assisting Members to develop their NMHSs and Regional Offi ce for Asia and the South-West Pacifi c implement WMO Programmes and other activities should remain in Geneva in view of the advantages of that had a regional focus. It recognized the efforts of its location at WMO Headquarters to ensure effective the Regional Offi ce to contribute to the new high- and effi cient implementation of activities related to priority needs in the areas of science and technology, the Regional Programme. capacity-building, climate variability and change, 17.7 The Association noted with satisfaction water resources management and disaster mitigation a certain number of measures undertaken by the as well as other environmental issues that had been Secretary-General to effect structural and organi- identifi ed by Members. zational changes in the Secretariat, especially with 17.3 The Association expressed satisfaction with respect to Regional and Subregional Offi ces and the the commendable efforts of the Regional Offi ce and establishment and development of the Regional and the Subregional Offi ce in maintaining close contact Technical Cooperation Activities for Development with Members through visits and in supporting Department. It requested the Secretary-General to regional events in order to ensure the strengthening continue his efforts to strengthen the Regional Offi ce of WMO activities in the development of meteorol- for Asia and the South-West Pacifi c and the Subregional ogy and operational hydrology at the national and Offi ce for the South-West Pacifi c to meet the require- regional levels. The Association agreed that the staff ments of Members in the Region and to address WMO of the Regional Offi ce and Subregional Offi ce should cross-cutting Programmes with relevant regional continue to make every effort to further strengthen organizations. contact with Members and facilitate the implemen- tation of regional activities. In that connection, the 18. SCIENTIFIC LECTURES AND Association expressed the view that the Offi ces should DISCUSSIONS (agenda item 18) develop an annual operational plan and report on the 18.1 The following scientifi c lectures were given progress of its implementation to Members. during the session: 17.4 The Association recognized the efforts of (a) Natural disaster prevention and reduction: the Offi ces in maintaining close liaison and collabo- – WMO Natural Disaster Prevention and rating with regional bodies such as ASEAN, ESCAP, Mitigation Programme, presented by SPREP and SOPAC. The Association invited the Offi ces Mr Hong Yan (Deputy Secretary-General of to continue that type of activity and to extend it to WMO); also cover the IOC Regional Programme Offi ce in – Community-Based Early Warning System Perth, and to use those institutions to promote mete- for Floods, presented by Mr P.D. Nilo orology and operational hydrology as well as related (Philippines); environmental issues and to increase the awareness (b) New observation systems and the WMO Space of policymakers of the role of NMHSs and WMO in Programme: contributing to sustainable development. – New Observation System and the WMO 17.5 The Association noted that the biannual Space Programme, presented by Mr G. Love newsletter provided a vehicle for the exchange and (Australia); dissemination of regional news and a means of main- (c) The Observing System Research and Predictability taining close liaison between the Regional Offi ce Experiment (THORPEX): and Members of RA II and RA V. The Association – THORPEX, a World Weather Research welcomed the Secretary-General’s initiative regard- Programme, presented by Mr J. McBride ing the optimization of public information material (Australia); disseminated by WMO, and requested that newslet- (d) Climate change issues and impacts in the South- ters be issued in both paper and electronic versions West Pacifi c: and posted on the Internet. The Association empha- – An Overview of IPCC, its Findings and sized the need for the newsletter to be focused on Relevance to the South-West Pacifi c, issues of interest to the Region. In that connection, it presented by Mr D. Wratt (New Zealand); urged Members to actively contribute news items and – Climate Change and Impacts in the articles to the Regional Offi ce on a regular basis. The South-West Pacifi c: Range of Uncertainty Association requested the Secretary-General to include in Future Climate Change, presented by information on the activities and programmes being Mr M.A. Ratag (Indonesia); undertaken by Members in the Region in the relevant – Climate Change Issues in Samoa, presented website under the WMO home page. by Mr M.A. Titimaea (Samoa). 17.6 Noting the advantages and cost-effectiveness 18.2 The lectures were followed by fruitful discus- of having the Subregional Offi ce closer to the Members sions in which delegates participated. The Association concerned, and with the support of the Government expressed its appreciation to the lecturers for their inter- of Samoa, the Association expressed the view that esting and informative presentations. It requested the the Subregional Offi ce should continue to be located Secretary-General, in consultation with the president of 46 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
RA V, to make the necessary arrangements for scientifi c Singapore, Tonga, the United Kingdom and the United lectures during the next session of the Association. States, expressed their gratitude to the Government of Australia for having hosted the session, and for 19. REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS AND the excellent arrangements and the warm hospital- RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE ASSOCIATION ity extended to all participants. The Association also AND OF RELEVANT EXECUTIVE COUNCIL expressed its appreciation to the WMO Secretariat RESOLUTIONS (agenda item 19) and the local secretariat for the support that had 19.1 The Association examined those of its reso- helped in the smooth running of the session. lutions which were still in force at the time of the Messrs A. Ngari and R. Prasad, acting president fourteenth session. and vice-president of the Association, respectively, 19.2 The Association noted that most of its past were thanked for their leadership and contribu- resolutions had been replaced by new resolutions tions in supporting the activities of the Region. adopted during the session. It further noted that, Mr A. Ngari and Ms S.W.B. Harijono were congratu- while a few resolutions had been incorporated in the lated on their election as president and vice-presi- appropriate WMO publications, some of the previous dent, respectively. resolutions were still required to be kept in force. 22.2 Mr Hong Yan, the representative of the 19.3 Accordingly, the Association adopted Secretary-General, thanked the Government of Resolution 19 (XIV-RA V). Australia, as well as Mr G.B. Love, Permanent 19.4 The Association considered that Resolution 9 Representative of Australia with WMO, and his staff (EC-LIV) — Report of the thirteenth session of Regional for the excellent arrangements and their warm hospi- Association V (South-West Pacifi c), did not need to be tality. He extended his appreciation to all the delegates kept in force. and supporting staff for their considerable contri- butions, which had led to an excellent session. He 20. ELECTION OF OFFICERS (agenda item 20) welcomed the high spirit of cooperation and multi- The Association unanimously elected Mr Arona Ngari cultural involvement in a Pacifi c way demonstrated in (Cook Islands) as president and Ms Sri Woro Budiati the course of the session and expressed his high expec- Harijono (Indonesia) as vice-president of WMO tations for their further cooperation in the Region. Regional Association V (South-West Pacifi c). 22.3 Mr G.R. Foley, Deputy Director (Services and Systems) of BOM, on behalf of the host coun- 21. DATE AND PLACE OF THE FIFTEENTH try, expressed the hope that participants had had SESSION (agenda item 21) a comfortable and memorable stay in Adelaide. He 21.1 The delegation of Indonesia extended its congratulated the new president and vice-president invitation to host the next session of the Association on their election and thanked all those who had taken in Indonesia. The Association expressed its apprecia- part in ensuring the success of the session. He wished tion for that offer. all participants a safe journey home. 21.2 In accordance with Regulation 170 of the 22.4 In his closing remarks, Mr A. Ngari, acting WMO General Regulations, the president of the president of RA V, expressed his appreciation to Association should determine the date and place of participants, the host country, the WMO Secretariat the fi fteenth session in agreement with the President and co-chairpersons for their valuable contributions, of WMO, and after consultation with the Secretary- and hoped that the programmes and activities of General, during the intersessional period. the Association would be further strengthened. He expressed his warm thanks to the participants from the 22. CLOSURE OF THE SESSION non-Members of WMO, namely the Marshall Islands, (agenda item 22) Tuvalu and Timor-Leste. He indicated his commitment 22.1 The principal delegates of Members of the to continue to work in the interests of the Region. Region, including Brunei Darussalam, Fiji, French 22.5 The fourteenth session of Regional Polynesia, Indonesia, Kiribati, Malaysia, New Association V (South-West Pacifi c) closed at 10.50 a.m. Caledonia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, on 16 May 2006. RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION
RESOLUTION 1 (XIV-RA V)
WORKING GROUP ON PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WWW IN REGION V
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), components and functions with a view to NOTING: achieving a cost-effective operation and a (1) Resolution 2 (Cg-XIV) — World Weather Watch better supply of WWW data and products Programme for 2004–2007, throughout the Region; (2) Resolution 5 (Cg-XIV) — WMO Space (d) To keep abreast of new developments in Programme, the fi eld of meteorological data processing, (3) Resolution 25 (Cg-XIV) — Sixth WMO Long- observing techniques, telecommunica- term Plan (2004–2011), tions and Public Weather Services (PWS) (4) The report of the chairperson of the Working and to make recommendations for their Group on Planning and Implementation of the application in the Region; WWW in Region V, (e) To advise the president of the Association CONSIDERING: on all matters concerning the WWW; (1) That World Weather Watch (WWW) data and (f) To keep under review education and products are of vital importance to Members of training requirements related to the imple- RA V to meet existing and new requirements for mentation and operation of the WWW meteorological services, and PWS in the Region; (2) That the implementation of the WWW in the (g) To keep under constant review the Region needs to be kept under constant review, Regional Meteorological Telecommun- (3) That the introduction of new concepts and tech- ication Network (RMTN) and its implemen- nology into the WWW will be of great benefi t tation, and to plan the implementation of to all Members in the Region, the WMO Information System (WIS) in (4) That full integration of the WWW functional the Region; components requires careful coordination (h) To identify means for strengthening liaison among Members of RA V and constant evalua- with those bodies responsible for the imple- tion of the related projects, mentation of the International Strategy for DECIDES: Disaster Reduction (ISDR), the Integrated (1) To establish a Working Group on Planning Global Ocean Services System (IGOSS) and and Implementation of the WWW in related oceanographic programmes, the Region V (RA V/WG-PIW) with the purpose of Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) linking regional WWW action plans to strategic and other WWW-related programmes in plans for the development of meteorology in the the Region; Region. The terms of reference are defi ned below, (i) To advise on how the WWW can enhance and the specifi c tasks of the Working Group will the effectiveness of early warning systems be assigned by the Regional Association: in the Region in a multi-hazard multi- (a) To monitor the progress made in the imple- purpose framework; mentation and operation of the WWW (j) To contribute to the effective coordi- in the Region and advise on possible nation between the WWW and WMO improvements and priorities for appro- cross-cutting activities such as the Space priate actions to be carried out under the Programme and the Natural Disaster WWW Programme and the need for exter- Prevention and Mitigation Programme; nal support, where required; (k) To assist in the development of national (b) To keep under review the actions taken and regional plans for the Global Earth under the required WWW implementa- Observation System of Systems (GEOSS); tion programme of the Sixth and Seventh (2) That the Working Group should be composed WMO Long-term Plans with a view to of the following core members: updating and further developing the (a) The chairperson; programme relating to RA V; (b) The coordinator of a Subgroup on Regional (c) To develop proposals for the further devel- Aspects of Information Systems and opment and full integration of the WWW Services; 48 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
(c) The Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of the (b) Mr Choo Huat Aik (Singapore) to serve Integrated Observing Systems; as Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of the (d) The Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of the Global Data-Processing and Forecasting Global Data-processing and Forecasting System; System; (c) Mr T.S. Kang (Malaysia) to serve as (e) The Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of Public Public Weather Services; Weather Services; (f) The Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of (d) Mr Y. Gregoris (French Polynesia) to serve AMDAR; as Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of (g) The Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of AMDAR; GEOSS; (e) Mr M. Argent (New Caledonia) to serve as (h) The Rapporteur on Migration to Table- Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of GEOSS; driven Code Forms; (f) Mr W. Qu (Australia) to serve as Rapporteur The terms of reference of the Subgroup and Rapporteurs on Migration to Table-driven Code Forms; are indicated in the annex to this resolution; (5) To invite Members to nominate experts to serve (3) To designate, in accordance with Regulation 32 on the Group and the Subgroup; of the WMO General Regulations, Mr T. Hart (6) To request the chairperson of the Working Group (Australia) as chairperson of the Working Group to submit progress reports at yearly intervals to and Mr K. Alder (New Zealand) as coordinator of the president of the Association and a fi nal report the Subgroup; no later than six months before the fi fteenth (4) To invite: session of the Association. (a) Mr Sunarjo (Indonesia) to serve as ______Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of the NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 1 (XIII-RA V), Integrated Observing Systems; which is no longer in force.
ANNEX TO RESOLUTION 1 (XIV-RA V)
WORKING GROUP ON PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WWW IN REGION V
The terms of reference of the Subgroup and Rapporteurs of regional and national transition plans nominated under Resolution 1 (XIV-RA V) are as for the migration to TDCF; follows: (iv) To keep under review data and product (a) Subgroup on Regional Aspects of Information generation, selection and presentation Systems and Services: to recipients (National Meteorological (i) To keep under review the status of Centres), including storage and retrieval implementation and operation of the of data and products and recovery proce- Regional Meteorological Telecommun- dures in case of major outages of key ication Network (RMTN), particularly as facilities; regards the implementation of the WMO (v) To coordinate information service activi- Information System (WIS), and the capa- ties relating to WMO multi-hazard warning bilities of satellites for data collection systems, including the tsunami warning and distribution, and formulate recom- systems; mendations with a view to remedying (vi) To keep abreast of developments in shortcomings; information and telecommunication (ii) To study problems and develop improved technology, procedures, services and and cost-effective arrangements relating equipment, including in particular satel- to the exchange of observational data and lite-based telecommunication services, processed information, within and outside the Internet and related equipment, and Region V, and formulate recommendations to advise on their applicability, as appro- for the coordination of the implementa- priate, to the Region; tion of telecommunication facilities and (vii) To keep under review and coordinate both techniques; real-time and non-real-time monitoring (iii) To keep under review data and information of the World Weather Watch (WWW) representation, including character and Programme in the Region, including quan- bit-oriented exchange formats and codes tity and quality aspects; and the migration to table-driven code (viii) To identify the training requirements forms (TDCF), assisting in the preparation of Members in the Region relating to RESOLUTIONS 49
relevant information and communication (i) To keep abreast of developments in techniques; numerical analysis and prediction systems, (ix) To advise and report to the chairperson techniques and applications which could of the Working Group on all matters be benefi cially introduced at national and concerning regional aspects of the Global regional centres to improve their forecast Telecommunication System (GTS), WIS and warning capability, covering time- and data management; scales from nowcasting to seasonal to (x) To represent the Region on the Commission inter-annual prediction; for Basic Systems (CBS) Implementation/ (ii) To formulate recommendations for coor- Coordination Team on Information dinated enhancement of meteorological Systems and Services. analyses and forecast guidance available to (b) Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of the Integrated National Meteorological and Hydrological Observing Systems: Services (NMHSs) in the Region, with a (i) To review and advise on the observational particular focus on the products required to data requirements of Members of RA V in support the forecast services in support of the context of the WWW Programme and early warnings in a multi-hazard framework, the WMO Space Programme in the WMO including forecast guidance for high-impact Long-term Plan; weather, environmental emergency response, (ii) To monitor performance, review and atmospheric transport and dispersion; advise on the design of observing systems (iii) To identify the training requirements in the Region, in particular the Regional of Members in the Region relating to Basic Synoptic Network (RBSN) of surface relevant data-processing and forecasting and upper-air stations and the Regional techniques; Basic Climatological Network (RBCN), (iv) To contribute to WMO cross-cutting activ- including the Global Climate Observing ities, such as the WMO Space Programme System (GCOS); and the Natural Disaster Prevention and (iii) To keep abreast of matters related to the Mitigation Programme, in areas related to development and introduction of new data-processing and forecasting systems; observing systems, including both in situ (v) To advise and report to the chairperson and space-based platforms, and advise on of the Working Group on all matters their application in the Region; concerning data-processing and forecast- (iv) To advise and report to the chairperson ing activities in the Region; of the Working Group on all matters (vi) To represent the Region on the CBS concerning regional aspects of the Global Implementation/Coordination Team on Observing System (GOS), including train- Data-Processing and Forecasting Systems. ing requirements; (d) Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of Public (v) To liaise with other rapporteurs and Weather Services: subgroups in the Region to ensure coor- (i) To keep under review the implementa- dination on matters relating to the tion of the Public Weather Services (PWS) GOS, particularly the Co-rapporteurs Programme in Region V; on Regional Marine Meteorological and (ii) To advise and report to the chairperson of Oceanographic Services, on the develop- the Working Group on matters relating to ment and operation of the GOS in support the formulation, presentation and dissemi- of marine services; nation of forecasts and warnings, and (vi) To coordinate the regional input to plans establish good relations with emergency for the development of the GOS; managers, the media and the private sector; (vii) To act as the focal point for the Region in (iii) To keep under review education and maintaining regulatory material related to training requirements related to the PWS the GOS; Programme; (viii) To represent the Region on the CBS (iv) To contribute to WMO cross-cutting activi- Implementation/Coordination Team on ties, such as the WMO Space Programme, Integrated Observing Systems, and coor- and the Natural Disaster Prevention and dinate the implementation of agreed Mitigation Programme in areas related to plans with the chairperson and other PWS; members of the Open Programme Area (v) To contribute to efforts regarding social Group (OPAG) on Integrated Observing and economic applications of PWS in Systems. collaboration with the THORPEX Societal (c) Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of the Global and Economic Applications Working Data-processing and Forecasting System: Group, as appropriate; 50 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
(vi) To represent the Region on the CBS (f) Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of GEOSS: Implementation/Coordination Team on To contribute to the coordination of the plan- Public Weather Services. ning and development of GEOSS with the WWW (e) Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of AMDAR: systems in the Region. To provide information for Members and (g) Rapporteur on Migration to Table-driven Code formulate plans for the establishment of an Forms: AMDAR programme for the Region to extend the To contribute to the development of a regional coverage of aircraft reports over the Region. plan for migration to TDCF.
RESOLUTION 2 (XIV-RA V)
REGIONAL BASIC SYNOPTIC NETWORK
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), of the network of the stations and observa- NOTING: tional programmes set forth in the annex to this (1) Resolution 2 (XIII-RA V) — Regional Basic resolution; Synoptic Network, (2) To comply fully with the standard times of (2) The Manual on the Global Observing System observation, the global and regional coding (WMO-No. 544), Volume I, Part III, Regulations procedures and data collection standards, as 2.1.3.1 – 2.1.3.5 and the defi nition of the Regional laid down in the WMO Technical Regulations Basic Synoptic Networks (RBSNs), (WMO-No. 49) and the Manual on the Global (3) The Manual on the Global Telecommunication Observing System (WMO-No. 544), the Manual System (WMO-No. 386), Volume I, Part I, on Codes (WMO-No. 306) and the Manual Attachment 1–3, Section 3, on the Global Telecommunication System CONSIDERING that the establishment and maintenance (WMO-No. 386); of an RBSN of surface and upper-air synoptic stations, AUTHORIZES the president of the Association to adequate to meet the requirements of Members and approve, at the request of the Members concerned the World Weather Watch (WWW), constitute one and in consultation with the Secretary-General, of the most important obligations of Members under minor amendments to the list of RBSN stations Article 2 of the WMO Convention, in accordance with the procedures laid down DECIDES that the stations and the observational in the Manual on the Global Observing System programmes listed in the annex to this resolution (WMO-No. 544),Volume II — Regional Aspects, constitute the RBSN in Region V; Region V (South-West Pacific). URGES Members: ______(1) To spare no effort in their endeavours to secure, NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 2 (XIII-RA V), at the earliest date possible, full implementation which is no longer in force. RESOLUTIONS 51
ANNEX TO RESOLUTION 2 (XIV-RA V)
LIST OF STATIONS COMPRISING THE RBSN IN REGION V Observations Observations
Index No. Station name Index No. Station name
AMERICAN SAMOA 94300 CARNARVON AIRPORT S 91764 CAPE TAPUTAPU AWS S 94300 CARNARVON AIRPORT W 91765 PAGO PAGO S 94302 LEARMONTH AIRPORT S 91765 PAGO PAGO W R 94302 LEARMONTH AIRPORT W R 91766 CAPE MATATULA AWS S 94312 PORT HEDLAND AIRPORT S 91768 TA’U AWS S 94312 PORT HEDLAND AIRPORT W R 94313 WITTENOOM S AUSTRALIA 94317 NEWMAN AERO S 94102 TROUGHTON ISLAND S 94319 TELFER AERO S 94103 BROWSE ISLAND S 94324 YUENDUMU S 94120 DARWIN AIRPORT S 94326 ALICE SPRINGS AIRPORT S 94120 DARWIN AIRPORT W R 94326 ALICE SPRINGS AIRPORT W R 94122 POINT FAWCETT S 94327 JERVOIS S 94131 TINDAL RAAF S 94332 MOUNT ISA AIRPORT S 94147 CAPE WESSEL S 94332 MOUNT ISA AIRPORT W R 94150 GOVE AIRPORT S 94333 BOULIA AIRPORT S 94150 GOVE AIRPORT W R 94341 RICHMOND AIRPORT S 94151 NORTH EAST ISLAND S 94346 LONGREACH AIRPORT S 94170 WEIPA AERO S 94346 LONGREACH AIRPORT W 94170 WEIPA AERO W R 94363 EMERALD AIRPORT S 94183 COEN AIRPORT S 94366 BOWEN AIRPORT S 94200 MANDORA S 94367 MACKAY MO S 94203 BROOME AIRPORT S 94367 MACKAY MO W 94203 BROOME AIRPORT W R 94374 ROCKHAMPTON AIRPORT S 94206 FITZROY CROSSING AERO S 94374 ROCKHAMPTON AIRPORT W R 94207 ROWLEY SHOALS S 94388 LADY ELLIOT ISLAND S 94211 MOUNT ELIZABETH S 94393 FREDERICK REEF S 94212 HALLS CREEK AIRPORT S 94394 CATO ISLAND S 94212 HALLS CREEK AIRPORT W 94403 GERALDTON AIRPORT S 94216 KUNUNURRA AERO S 94403 GERALDTON AIRPORT W R 94236 ELLIOTT S 94429 MT MAGNET AERO S 94238 TENNANT CREEK AIRPORT S 94430 MEEKATHARRA AIRPORT S 94238 TENNANT CREEK AIRPORT W 94430 MEEKATHARRA AIRPORT W R 94248 CENTRE ISLAND S 94449 LAVERTON AERO S 94255 CAMOOWEAL TOWNSHIP S 94451 CARNEGIE S 94266 NORMANTON AIRPORT S 94461 GILES METEOROLOGICAL OFFICE S 94268 KOWANYAMA AIRPORT S 94461 GILES METEOROLOGICAL OFFICE W R 94275 GEORGETOWN POST OFFICE S 94462 YULARA AERO S 94287 CAIRNS AIRPORT S 94477 MARLA POLICE STATION S 94287 CAIRNS AIRPORT W 94488 WINDORAH POST OFFICE S 94290 FLINDERS REEF S 94500 CUNNAMULLA POST OFFICE S 94294 TOWNSVILLE AIRPORT S 94510 CHARLEVILLE AERO S 94294 TOWNSVILLE AIRPORT W R 94510 CHARLEVILLE AERO W R 94296 LIHOU REEF S 94515 ROMA AIRPORT S 94298 MARION REEF S 94552 OAKEY AERO S 94299 WILLIS ISLAND S 94578 BRISBANE AIRPORT S 94299 WILLIS ISLAND W R 94578 BRISBANE AIRPORT W R 52 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
Station name Station name Observations Observations Index No. Index No.
94584 DOUBLE ISLAND POINT LIGHTHOUSE S 94975 HOBART AIRPORT S 94601 CAPE LEEUWIN S 94975 HOBART AIRPORT W R 94610 PERTH AIRPORT S 94983 EDDYSTONE POINT S 94610 PERTH AIRPORT W R 94995 LORD HOWE ISLAND AERO S 94637 KALGOORLIE-BOULDER AIRPORT S 94995 LORD HOWE ISLAND AERO W R 94637 KALGOORLIE-BOULDER AIRPORT W R 94996 NORFOLK ISLAND AERO S 94638 ESPERANCE S 94996 NORFOLK ISLAND AERO W R 94638 ESPERANCE W R 94997 HEARD ISLAND (THE SPIT) S 94642 BALLADONIA S 94998 MACQUARIE ISLAND S 94643 BALGAIR S 94998 MACQUARIE ISLAND W R 94647 EUCLA S 95111 PORT KEATS AERO S 94647 EUCLA W R 95146 NGAYAWILI S 94651 NULLARBOR S 95205 DERBY AERO S 94653 CEDUNA AMO S 95283 COOKTOWN AIRPORT S 94653 CEDUNA AMO W 95322 RABBIT FLAT S 94659 WOOMERA AERODROME S 95448 LEINSTER AERO S 94659 WOOMERA AERODROME W R 95458 COOBER PEDY AIRPORT S 94672 ADELAIDE AIRPORT S 95480 MARREE AERO S 94672 ADELAIDE AIRPORT W R 95481 MOOMBA AIRPORT S 94691 BROKEN HILL AIRPORT S 95482 BIRDSVILLE AIRPORT S 94693 MILDURA AIRPORT S 95485 TIBOOBURRA AIRPORT S 94693 MILDURA AIRPORT W 95492 THARGOMINDAH AIRPORT S 94700 HILLSTON AIRPORT S 95527 MOREE AERO S 94703 BOURKE AIRPORT AWS S 95527 MOREE AERO W R 94711 COBAR MO S 95634 SOUTHERN CROSS AIRFIELD S 94711 COBAR MO W R 95637 LAKE GRACE S 94729 BATHURST AIRPORT AWS S 95646 FORREST S 94750 NOWRA RAN AIR STATION S 95666 PORT AUGUSTA AERO S 94750 NOWRA RAN AIR STATION W R 95719 DUBBO AIRPORT S 94767 SYDNEY AIRPORT AMO S 95762 TAMWORTH AIRPORT S 94767 SYDNEY AIRPORT AMO W 95839 HORSHAM AERODROME S 94776 WILLIAMTOWN RAAF S 95966 LAUNCESTON AIRPORT S 94776 WILLIAMTOWN RAAF W R 96995 CHRISTMAS ISLAND AERO S 94791 COFFS HARBOUR MO S 96996 COCOS ISLAND AIRPORT S 94791 COFFS HARBOUR MO W 96996 COCOS ISLAND AIRPORT W R 94802 ALBANY AIRPORT S 94802 ALBANY AIRPORT W R BRUNEI DARUSSALAM 94804 NEPTUNE ISLAND S 96315 BRUNEI AIRPORT S 94821 MOUNT GAMBIER AERO S 96315 BRUNEI AIRPORT W R 94821 MOUNT GAMBIER AERO W R 94842 CAPE OTWAY LIGHTHOUSE S COOK ISLANDS 94850 KING ISLAND AIRPORT S 91801 PENRHYN W R 94866 MELBOURNE AIRPORT S 91802 PENRHYN AWS S 94866 MELBOURNE AIRPORT W R 91809 MANIHIKI AWS S 94875 SHEPPARTON AIRPORT S 91812 PUKAPUKA AWS S 94893 WILSONS PROMONTORY LIGHTHOUSE S 91831 AITUTAKI AWS S 94907 EAST SALE AIRPORT S 91841 MAUKE AWS S 94907 EAST SALE AIRPORT W 91843 RAROTONGA S 94910 WAGGA WAGGA AMO S 91843 RAROTONGA W 94910 WAGGA WAGGA AMO W R 91848 MANGAIA AWS S 94926 CANBERRA AMO AWS S 94935 MALLACOOTA S FIJI 94954 CAPE GRIM B.A.P.S. S 91650 ROTUMA S 94956 STRAHAN AERODROME S 91652 UDU POINT AWS S RESOLUTIONS 53 Observations Observations
Index No. Station name Index No. Station name
91659 NABOUWALU S 96645 PANGKALAN BUN/ISKANDAR S 91660 YASAWA-I-RARA AWS S 96655 PALANGKA RAYA/TJILIK RIWUT S 91670 VIWA AWS S 96685 BANJARMASIN/SYAMSUDIN NOOR S 91676 VANUA BALAVU AWS S 96749 JAKARTA/SOEKARNO-HATTA S 91680 NADI AIRPORT S 96749 JAKARTA/SOEKARNO-HATTA R 91680 NADI AIRPORT W R 96781 BANDUNG/HUSEIN S 91683 NAUSORI S 96805 CILACAP S 91691 LAKEBA AWS S 96839 SEMARANG/AHMAD YANI S 91693 VUNISEA S 96935 SURABAYA/JUANDA S 91697 MATUKU AWS S 96935 SURABAYA/JUANDA R 91699 ONO-I-LAU AWS S 97014 MENADO/ SAM RATULANGI S 97014 MENADO/ SAM RATULANGI R FRENCH POLYNESIA 97028 TOLI-TOLI/LALOS S 91925 ATUONA S 97048 GORONTALO/JALALUDDIN S 91925 ATUONA W R 97072 PALU/MUTIARA S 91929 BORA-BORA S 97072 PALU/MUTIARA R 91938 TAHITI-FAAA S 97086 LUWUK/BUBUNG S 91938 TAHITI-FAAA W R 97096 POSO/KASIGUNCU S 91943 TAKAROA S 97120 MAJENE S 91943 TAKAROA W R 97146 KENDARI/WOLTER MONGINSIDI S 91944 HAO AWS S 97180 UJUNG PANDANG/HASANUDDIN S 91945 HEREHERETUE S 97180 UJUNG PANDANG/HASANUDDIN R 91948 RIKITEA S 97192 BAU-BAU/BETO AMBARI S 91948 RIKITEA W R 97230 DENPASAR/NGURAH RAI S 91954 TUBUAI S 97260 SUMBAWA BESAR/BRANGBIJI S 91954 TUBUAI W R 97270 BIMA/M.SALAHUDDIN S 91958 RAPA S 97300 MAUMERE/WAI OTI S 91958 RAPA W R 97340 WAINGAPU/MAU HAU S 97372 KUPANG/ELTARI S GUAM 97372 KUPANG/ELTARI R 91212 NWSO AGANA, GUAM S 97430 TERNATE/BABULLAH S 91212 NWSO AGANA, GUAM W R 97460 LABUHA/OESMAN SADIK S 97502 SORONG/JEFMAN S INDONESIA 97530 MANOKWARI/RENDANI S 96009 LHOKSEUMAWE/MALIKUSSALEH S 97560 BIAK/FRANS KAISIEPO S 96011 BANDA ACEH/BLANG BINTANG S 97560 BIAK/FRANS KAISIEPO R 96035 MEDAN/POLONIA S 97580 SARMI/MARARENA S 96035 MEDAN/POLONIA R 97600 SANANA S 96073 SIBOLGA/PINANGSORI S 97686 WAMENA S 96091 TANJUNG PINANG/KIJANG S 97690 JAYAPURA/SENTANI S 96109 PEKAN BARU/SIMPANGTIGA S 97724 AMBON/PATTIMURA S 96145 TAREMPA S 97724 AMBON/PATTIMURA R 96147 RANAI S 97748 GESER S 96163 PADANG/TABING S 97760 KAIMANA/UTAROM S 96163 PADANG/TABING R 97796 TIMIKA S 96179 SINGKEP/DABO S 97810 TUAL/DUMATUBUN S 96195 JAMBI/SULTAN TAHA S 97876 TANAH MERAH S 96221 PALEMBANG/ST. M. BADARUDIN II S 97900 SAUMLAKI/OLILIT S 96237 PANGKAL PINANG S 97980 MERAUKE/MOPAH S 96237 PANGKAL PINANG R 97980 MERAUKE/MOPAH R 96249 TANJUNG PANDAN/BULUH TUMBANG S 96253 BENGKULU/PADANG KEMILING S KIRIBATI 96295 TANJUNG KARANG/RADIN INTEN II S 91487 FANNING ISLAND S 96509 TARAKAN/JUWATA S 91490 CHRISTMAS ISLAND S 96581 PONTIANAK/SUPADIO S 91610 TARAWA S 96633 BALIKPAPAN/SEPINGGAN S 91610 TARAWA W R 54 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V Observations Observations
Index No. Station name Index No. Station name
91612 TARAWA (AERODROME) S 91413 YAP W R 91701 KANTON ISLAND S 91425 NUKUORO ATOLL S 91434 KAPINGIMARANGI ATOLL S MALAYSIA 48601 PENANG/BAYAN LEPAS S NAURU 48601 PENANG/BAYAN LEPAS W R 91530 NAURU AIRPORT W R 48615 KOTA BHARU S 91531 NAURU S 48615 KOTA BHARU W R 48620 SITIAWAN S NEW CALEDONIA 48647 KUALA LUMPUR/SUBANG S 91570 ILE SURPRISE AWS S 48650 SEPANG W R 91574 CHESTERFIELD S 48657 KUANTAN S 91577 KOUMAC S 48657 KUANTAN W R 91582 OUANAHAM (ILE LIFOU) S 48665 MALACCA S 91592 NOUMEA S 96413 KUCHING S 91592 NOUMEA W R 96413 KUCHING W R 91598 MATTHEW AWS S 96421 SIBU S 96441 BINTULU S NEW ZEALAND 96441 BINTULU W R 93004 CAPE REINGA AWS S 96449 MIRI S 93023 PURERUA AWS S 96465 LABUAN S 93069 MOKOHINAU AWS S 96471 KOTA KINABALU S 93110 AUCKLAND AERO AWS S 96471 KOTA KINABALU W R 93112 WHENUAPAI W R 96481 TAWAU S 93186 TAURANGA AERO AWS S 96481 TAWAU W R 93196 HICKS BAY AWS S 96491 SANDAKAN S 93245 TAUPO AWS S 93291 GISBORNE AERODROME W MARSHALL ISLANDS 93292 GISBORNE AERODROME AWS S 91258 UTIRIK ATOLL AWS S 93305 MAUI A PLATFORM S 91366 KWAJALEIN/BUCHOLZ AAF S 93308 NEW PLYMOUTH AERODROME W 91366 KWAJALEIN/BUCHOLZ AAF W R 93309 NEW PLYMOUTH AWS S 91367 AILINGLAPALAP ATOLL S 93373 NAPIER AERODROME AWS S 91369 JALUIT ATOLL S 93404 PALMERSTON NORTH AWS S 91371 WOTJE ATOLL S 93417 PARAPARAUMU AERODROME W R 91374 MALOELAP ATOLL AWS S 93420 PARAPARAUMU AWS S 91376 MAJURO S 93498 CASTLEPOINT AWS S 91376 MAJURO W R 93527 FAREWELL SPIT AWS S 91377 MILI ATOLL AWS S 93614 HOKITIKA AERODROME W 93615 HOKITIKA AERODROME AWS S MICRONESIA, FEDERATED STATES OF 93678 KAIKOURA AWS S 91203 FALALOP ISLAND, ULITHI ATOLL S 93709 HAAST AWS S 91317 WOLEAI ATOLL S 93773 TIMARU AERODROME AWS S 91334 CHUUK S 93781 CHRISTCHURCH AERO AWS S 91334 CHUUK W R 93800 SECRETARY ISLAND AWS S 91339 LUKUNOR ATOLL S 93805 PUYSEGUR POINT AWS S 91343 OROLUK ATOLL AWS S 93831 QUEENSTOWN AERODROME AWS S 91348 PONAPE S 93844 INVERCARGILL AERODROME W R 91348 PONAPE W R 93845 INVERCARGILL AIRPORT AWS S 91350 MWOAKILLO S 93891 DUNEDIN AIRPORT AWS S 91352 PINGELAP ATOLL AWS S 93909 SOUTH WEST CAPE AWS S 91355 KOSRAE ATOLL AWS S 93929 ENDERBY ISLAND AWS S 91356 LELU, KOSRAE ATOLL S 93947 CAMPBELL ISLAND AWS S 91413 YAP S 93986 CHATHAM ISLAND W R RESOLUTIONS 55 Observations Observations Index No. Station name Index No. Station name
93987 CHATHAM ISLANDS AWS S 98637 ILOILO S 93994 RAOUL ISLAND, KERMADEC IS. AWS S 98646 MACTAN S 93997 RAOUL ISLAND, KERMADEC IS. W R 98646 MACTAN W R 98653 SURIGAO S NIUE 98741 DIPOLOG S 91824 HANNAN AIRPORT S 98747 LUMBIA AIRPORT S 98753 DAVAO AIRPORT S NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS 98755 HINATUAN S 91221 ROTA S 98836 ZAMBOANGA S 91222 PAGAN ISLAND AWS S 91231 TINIAN S SAMOA 91232 SAIPAN S 91757 AVAO S 91759 FALEOLO S PALAU 91760 ASAU S 91408 KOROR WSO S 91761 LATA S 91408 KOROR WSO W R 91762 APIA S 91763 CAPE TAPAGA S PAPUA NEW GUINEA 91769 TAFITOALA S 92001 KIUNGA W.O. S 92003 DARU W.O. S SINGAPORE 92004 WEWAK W.O. S 48698 SINGAPORE/CHANGI AIRPORT S 92014 MADANG W.O. S 48698 SINGAPORE/CHANGI AIRPORT W R 92014 MADANG W.O. W R 92035 PORT MORESBY W.O. S SOLOMON ISLANDS 92035 PORT MORESBY W.O. W R 91503 MUNDA S 92044 MOMOTE W.O S 91507 AUKI S 92044 MOMOTE W.O. W R 91517 HONIARA W R 92047 NADZAB W.O. S 91520 HONIARA/HENDERSON S 92076 KAVIENG W.O. S 91541 SANTA CRUZ S 92077 GURNEY W.O. S 92087 MISIMA W.O. S TIMOR-LESTE 92100 TOKUA W.O. S 97385 OE-CUSSIE S 97390 DILLI/DILLI AIRPORT S PHILIPPINES 98134 BASCO S TOKELAU 98223 LAOAG S 91723 NUKUNONU AWS S 98223 LAOAG W R 98232 APARRI S TONGA 98325 DAGUPAN S 91772 NIUAFOOU/QUEEN LAVINIA 98328 BAGUIO S AIRPORT S 98330 CABANATUAN S 91776 KEPPEL/MATA’AHO AIRPORT S 98336 CASIGURAN S 91779 VAVAU/LUPEPAU’U INTERNATIONAL 98429 NINOY AQUINO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT S AIRPORT S 98430 SCIENCE GARDEN S 91784 HAAPAI/SALOTE PILOLEVU AIRPORT S 98431 CALAPAN S 91792 TONGATAPU/ 98440 DAET S FUAAMOTU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT S 98444 LEGASPI S 98444 LEGASPI W R TUVALU 98526 CORON S 91631 NANUMEA S 98531 SAN JOSE S 91636 NUI S 98536 ROMBLON S 91643 FUNAFUTI S 98543 MASBATE S 91643 FUNAFUTI W R 98550 TACLOBAN S 91648 NIULAKITA S 98618 PUERTO PRINCESA S 98618 PUERTO PRINCESA W R UNITED KINGDOM 98630 CUYO S 91964 PITCAIRN ISLAND AWS S 56 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V Observations
Station name Observations Index No. Station name Index No.
UNITED STATES VAN UATU 91066 MIDWAY ISLAND S 91551 SOLA (VANUA LAVA) S 91158 PRINCEVILLE, KAUAI S 91554 PEKOA AIRPORT (SANTO) S 91159 KEKAHA, KAUAI S 91555 LAMAP (MALEKULA) S 91163 PORT ALLEN AIRPORT, KAUAI S 91557 BAUERFIELD (EFATE) S 91165 LIHUE, KAUAI S 91557 BAUERFIELD (EFATE) W R 91165 LIHUE, KAUAI W R 91565 WHITE GRASS AIRPORT S 91175 BELLONS AIR FORCE BASE S 91568 ANEITYUM S 91182 HONOLULU, OAHU S 91190 KAHULUI AIRPORT, MAUI S WALLIS AND FUTUNA 91194 KAHOOLAWE S 91753 HIHIFO (ILE WALLIS) S 91275 JOHNSTON ISLAND S 91754 MAOPOOPO (ILE FUTUNA) S 91285 HILO/GEN. LYMAN S 91285 HILO/GEN. LYMAN W R Legend: S = Surface observations 91294 SOUTH POINT S W = Radiowind observations R = Radiosonde observations
RESOLUTION 3 (XIV-RA V)
REGIONAL BASIC CLIMATOLOGICAL NETWORK IN REGION V
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), (2) To comply fully with the global and regional NOTING: coding procedures and data collection stand- (1) Resolution 3 (XIII-RA V) — Regional Basic ards in accordance with procedures laid down in Climatological Network, the WMO Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49) (2) The report of the fourth session of the Working and the Manual on the Global Observing System Group on Planning and Implementation of the (WMO-No. 544), the Manual on Codes WWW in Region V, (WMO-No. 306) and the Manual on the Global (3) The Manual on the Global Telecommunication System Telecommunication System (WMO-No. 386) when (WMO-No. 386), Volume I, Part I, Attachment operating the RBCN; 1–3, Section 2.4 (i), (3) To collaborate through the RA V Working Group CONSIDERING that the Fourteenth World on Climate-related Matters on reviewing the Meteorological Congress welcomed the establish- placement/establishment of Reference Climate ment of the Regional Basic Climatological Network Network (RCN) sites in the RA V area and on the (RBCN) in all WMO Regions and the Antarctic and monitoring/analysis of Global Climate Observing urged Members to ensure that their operational System (GCOS) observational sites; observing stations compiled and transmitted the AUTHORIZES the president of the Association to CLIMAT/CLIMAT TEMP messages according to existing approve, at the request of Members concerned and regulations, in consultation with the Secretary-General, minor DECIDES that the stations listed in the annex to this amendments to the list of RBCN stations following the resolution constitute the RBCN in Region V; procedures laid down for the RBSN in the Manual on URGES Members: the Global Observing System (WMO-No. 544), Volume II (1) To spare no effort in their endeavours to ensure, — Regional Aspects, Region V (South-West Pacific). at the earliest date possible, full implementation ______of the network of RBCN stations set forth in the NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 3 (XIII-RA V), annex to this resolution; which is no longer in force. RESOLUTIONS 57
ANNEX TO RESOLUTION 3 (XIV-RA V)
LIST OF STATIONS COMPRISING THE RBCN IN REGION V
Station name Station name CLIMAT GSN GSN CLIMAT TEMP CLIMAT CLIMAT GUAN CLIMAT TEMP CLIMAT GUAN Index No. Index No.
AMERICAN SAMOA 94638 ESPERANCE X X X 91765 PAGO PAGO X X X X 94647 EUCLA X X 94653 CEDUNA AMO X X AUSTRALIA 94655 TARCOOLA AERO X 94100 KALUMBURU X X 94659 WOOMERA AERODROME X X X 94120 DARWIN AIRPORT X X X X 94672 ADELAIDE AIRPORT X X 94131 TINDAL RAFF X X 94681 NURIOOTPA VITICULTURAL X 94150 GOVE AIRPORT X X X 94689 BROKEN HILL (PATTON STREET) X X 94170 WEIPA AERO X X X 94693 MILDURA AIRPORT X X 94203 BROOME AIRPORT X X X X 94707 CONDOBOLIN AG 94212 HALLS CREEK AIRPORT X X RESEARCH STN X 94238 TENNANT CREEK AIRPORT X X 94709 WYALONG POST OFFICE X 94259 BURKETOWN POST OFFICE X X 94711 COBAR MO X X X 94275 GEORGETOWN POST OFFICE X X 94730 BATHURST AGRICULTURAL 94287 CAIRNS AERO X X STATION X 94294 TOWNSVILLE AERO X X X 94738 SCONE SCS X 94299 WILLIS ISLAND X X X 94740 GUNNEDAH (DIPNR) X 94300 CARNARVON AIRPORT X X 94750 NOWRA RAN AIR STATION X 94302 LEARMONTH AIRPORT X X X X 94767 SYDNEY AIRPORT AMO X 94312 PORT HEDLAND AIRPORT X X X 94776 WILLIAMTOWN RAAF X X 94313 WITTENOOM X 94786 PORT MACQUARIE AIRPORT X 94317 NEWMAN AERO X X 94791 COFFS HARBOUR MO X 94326 ALICE SPRINGS AIRPORT X X X 94802 ALBANY AIRPORT X X X 94332 MOUNT ISA AERO X X X 94805 CAPE BORDA X X 94339 WINTON POST OFFICE X 94812 ROBE X 94340 RICHMOND POST OFFICE X X 94814 STRATHALBYN RACECOURSE X 94346 LONGREACH AERO X X 94821 MOUNT GAMBIER AERO X X X 94367 MACKAY MO X X 94826 CAPE NELSON LIGHTHOUSE X 94374 ROCKHAMPTON AERO X X 94842 CAPE OTWAY LIGHTHOUSE X X 94380 GLADSTONE RADAR X X 94865 LAVERTON RAAF X 94403 GERALDTON AIRPORT X X X 94866 MELBOURNE AIRPORT X X 94430 MEEKATHARRA AIRPORT X X X 94893 WILSONS PROMONTORY 94461 GILES METEOROLOGICAL LIGHTHOUSE X OFFICE X X X X 94907 EAST SALE AIRPORT X X 94476 OODNADATTA AIRPORT X X 94910 WAGGA WAGGA AMO X X X 94480 MARREE X X 94917 ORBOST (COMPARISON) X 94485 TIBOOBURRA POST OFFICE X X 94926 CANBERRA AIRPORT X 94510 CHARLEVILLE AERO X X X X 94937 MORUYA HEADS PILOT 94517 ST GEORGE AIRPORT X X STATION X X 94568 AMBERLEY AMO X 94954 CAPE GRIM BAPS X 94570 TEWANTIN RSL PARK X X 94967 CAPE BRUNY LIGHTHOUSE X X 94578 BRISBANE AERO X X 94968 LAUNCESTON AIRPORT 94589 YAMBA PILOT STATION X X COMPARISON X 94601 CAPE LEEUWIN X X 94975 HOBART AIRPORT X X X 94602 ROTTNEST ISLAND X 94983 EDDYSTONE POINT X 94610 PERTH AIRPORT X X X 94995 LORD HOWE ISLAND AERO X X X X 94616 BRIDGETOWN COMPARISON X 94996 NORFOLK ISLAND AERO X X X X 94619 DALWALLINU COMPARISON X 94998 MACQUARIE ISLAND X X X X 94626 CUNDERDIN X X 95322 RABBIT FLAT X X 94635 LAKE GRACE COMPARISON X 95482 BIRDSVILLE AIRPORT X X 94637 KALGOORLIE-BOULDER AI 95492 THARGOMINDAH AIRPORT X X AIRPORT X X X 95527 MOREE AERO X X 58 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V GUAN GSN CLIMAT TEMP CLIMAT CLIMAT TEMP CLIMAT GUAN CLIMAT Index No. GSN CLIMAT Index No. Station name Station name
95529 MILES CONSTANCE STREET X 96195 JAMBI/SULTAN TAHA X 95541 INVERELL (RAGLAN STREET) X X 96249 TANJUNG PANDAN/ 95640 WANDERING X BULUH TUMBANG X 95646 FORREST X X 96253 BENGKULU/ 95670 RAYVILLE PARK X X PADANG KEMILING X 95719 DUBBO AIRPORT X X 96633 BALIKPAPAN/SEPINGGAN X 95753 RICHMOND RAAF X X 96645 PANGKALAN BUN/ISKANDAR X 95784 TAREE AIRPORT X X 96745 JAKARTA/OBSERVATORY X X 95829 NHILL X 96805 CILACAP X X 95869 DENILIQUIN AIRPORT X X 96839 SEMARANG/AHMAD YANI X 95908 THREDBO VILLAGE X 96925 SANGKAPURA/BAWEAN IS. X X 95916 CABRAMURRA SMHEA X X 96935 SURABAYA/JUANDA X X X 94940 PT PERPENDICULAR X 97014 MENADO/ SAM RATULANGI X X 95959 LIAWENEE X 97072 PALU/MUTIARA X 95964 LOW HEAD X X 97086 LUWUK/BUBUNG X 95971 GROVE (COMPARISON) X 97120 MAJENE X 96995 CHRISTMAS ISLAND AERO X X 97146 KENDARI/ 96996 COCOS ISLAND AIRPORT X X X X WOLTER MONGINSIDI X X 97192 BAU-BAU/BETO AMBARI X BRUNEI DARUSAALAM 97230 DENPASAR/NGURAH RAI X 96315 BRUNEI AIRPORT X X X 97240 AMPENAN SELAPARRANG X X 97340 WAINGAPU/MAU HAU X X COOK ISLANDS 97430 TERNATE/BABULLAH X 91801 PENRHYN X X 97502 SORONG/JEFMAN X X 91802 PENRHYN AWS X X 97530 MANOKWARI/RENDANI X 91812 PUKAPUKA AWS X X 97560 BIAK/FRANS KAISIEPO X X X 91831 AITUTAKI AWS X X 97600 SANANA X 91843 RAROTONGA X X 97686 WAMENA X X 91848 MANGAIA AWS X 97690 JAYAPURA/SENTANI X X 97724 AMBON/PATTIMURA X X X FIJI 97796 TIMIKA X 91650 ROTUMA X X 97900 SAUMLAKI/OLILIT X X 91652 UDU POINT AWS X X 97980 MERAUKE/MOPAH X X X 91680 NADI AIRPORT X X X X 91683 NAUSORI X X KIRIBATI 91699 ONO-I-LAU AWS X X 91487 FANNING ISLAND X X 91490 CHRISTMAS ISLAND X X FRENCH POLYNESIA 91610 TARAWA X X X X 91925 ATUONA X X X X 91701 KANTON ISLAND X X 91929 BORA-BORA AWS X X 91938 TAHITI-FAAA X X X X MALAYSIA 91943 TAKAROA X X X 48601 PENANG/BAYAN LEPAS X X 91945 HEREHERETUE X X 48615 KOTA BHARU X X 91948 RIKITEA X X X 48620 SITIAWAN X X 91954 TUBUAI X X X 48647 KUALA LUMPUR/SUBANG X 91958 RAPA X X X X 48650 SEPANG X X 48657 KUANTAN X X X GUAM 48665 MALACCA X 91212 WFO, GUAM X X 96413 KUCHING X X X 91217 WSMO, GUAM X X 96421 SIBU X 96441 BINTULU X X X INDONESIA 96449 MIRI X 96073 SIBOLGA/PINANGSORI X X 96465 LABUAN X X 96109 PEKAN BARU/SIMPANGTIGA X 96471 KOTA KINABALU X X 96145 TAREMPA X X 96481 TAWAU X X 96163 PADANG/TABING X X 96491 SANDAKAN X X RESOLUTIONS 59 GSN GUAN CLIMAT GUAN GSN CLIMAT TEMP CLIMAT TEMP CLIMAT Index No. CLIMAT
Index No. Station name Station name
MARSHALL ISLANDS 98444 LEGASPI X X 91366 KWAJALEIN X X 98637 ILOILO X X 91376 MAJURO X X X X 98755 HINATUAN X X 98836 ZAMBOANGA X X MICRONESIA, FEDERATED STATES OF 98851 GENERAL SANTOS X X 91334 CHUUK X X X 91348 PONAPE X X X SAMOA 91413 YAP X X X 91762 APIA X
NAURU SINGAPORE 91531 NAURU X 48698 SINGAPORE/CHANGI AIRPORT X X X
NEW CALEDONIA SOLOMON ISLANDS 91577 KOUMAC X X 91503 MUNDA X X 91592 NOUMEA X X X X 91517 HONIARA X X 91520 HONIARA/HENDERSON X X NEW ZEALAND 93012 KAITAIA X X TIMOR-LESTE 93110 AUCKLAND AERO AWS X 97385 OE-CUSSIE X 93112 WHENUAPAI X 97390 DILLI AIRPORT X 93292 GISBORNE AERODROME AWS X X 97395 BAUCAU NUS X X 93309 NEW PLYMOUTH AWS X X 93417 PARAPARAUMU AERODROME X X TOKELAU 93420 PARAPARAUMU AWS X X 91723 NUKUNONO AWS X X 93615 HOKITIKA AERODROME AWS X X 93678 KAIKOURA X TONGA 93747 TARA HILLS X X 91772 NIUAFOOU/ 93844 INVERCARGILL AERODROME X X QUEEN LAVINIA AIRPORT X 93845 INVERCARGILL AIRPORT AWS X X 91776 KEPPEL/MATA’AHO AIRPORT X 93947 CAMPBELL ISLAND AWS X X 91779 VAVA’U/LUPEPAU’U 93986 CHATHAM ISLAND X X INT. AIRPORT X 93987 CHATHAM ISLANDS AWS X X 91784 HA’APAI/SALOTE 93994 RAOUL ISLAND, KERMADEC IS X X PILOLEVU AIRPORT X 93997 RAOUL ISLAND, KERMADEC IS X X 91788 TONGATAPU/NUKU’ALOFA X 91789 NUKU’ALOFA X X NIUE 91824 HANNAN AIRPORT X X TUVALU 91631 NANUMEA X X PALAU 91643 FUNAFUTI X X X X 91408 KOROR WSO X X UNITED KINGDOM PAPUA NEW GUINEA 91964 PITCAIRN ISLAND X X 92001 KIUNGA W.O. X 92003 DARU W.O. X UNITED STATES 92004 WEWAK W.O. X 91165 LIHUE X X X X 92014 MADANG W.O. X X 91182 HONOLULU X X X 92035 PORT MORESBY W.O. X X X X 91190 KAHULUI X X X 92044 MOMOTE W.O. X X 91285 HILO X X X X 92047 NADZAB W.O. X 92076 KAVIENG W.O. X VAN UATU 92077 GURNEY W.O. X 91554 PEKOA AIRPORT (SANTO) X X 92087 MISIMA W.O. X 91555 LAMAP (MALEKULA) X 91557 BAUERFIELD (EFATE) X X PHILIPPINES 91568 ANEITYUM X X 98223 LAOAG X X X X 98232 APARRI X X WALLIS AND FUTUNA 98430 SCIENCE GARDEN X X 91753 HIHIFO (ILE WALLIS) X X 60 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
RESOLUTION 4 (XIV-RA V)
AMENDMENTS TO THE MANUAL ON THE GLOBAL OBSERVING SYSTEM (WMO-No. 544), VOLUME II — REGIONAL ASPECTS — REGION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC)
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), NOTING: DECIDES that the amended text of Section 5 of the (1) The Manual on the Global Observing System Manual on the Global Observing System (Volume II), as (WMO-No. 544), Volume II — Regional Aspects listed in the annex to this resolution, be adopted with — Region V (South-West Pacifi c), immediate effect; (2) The fi nal report of the fourth session of the REQUESTS the Secretary-General: Working Group on Planning and Implementation (1) To arrange for the inclusion of the amendment in of the WWW in RA V, Volume II of the Manual on the Global Observing CONSIDERING that there is an urgent need to update the System; Regional entry for the Manual on the Global Observing (2) To bring this modifi cation to the attention of the System (Volume II) in response to evolving requirements, Members of RA V.
ANNEX TO RESOLUTION 4 (XIV-RA V)
AMENDMENTS TO THE MANUAL ON THE GLOBAL OBSERVING SYSTEM (WMO-No. 544), VOLUME II— REGIONAL ASPECTS — REGION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC)
Replace the text Section 5 — Region V — South-West to the carrying out of the observations at the main Pacifi c to read: standard times. 5. REGION V — SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC 5.1.3 Upper-air synoptic observations 5.1 Regional Basic Synoptic Network All upper-air stations included in the RBSN of surface and upper-air observing should carry out radiosonde and/or radiowind obser- stations vations up to the 10 hPa level at 0000 and 1200 5.1.1 Composition of the Regional Basic UTC. Additional radiowind observations at 0600 and Synoptic Network 1800 UTC are also desirable. Any radiosonde station 5.1.1.1 The Regional Basic Synoptic Network (RBSN) that cannot carry out the full observing programme of surface and upper-air observing stations is reviewed required should give priority to making the 0000 and revised at each session of the Association. The UTC observations. Rapporteur(s) on Regional Aspects of the Integrated 5.1.4 Principles to be applied when revising the Observing Systems reviews the RBSN and makes propos- RBSN als for changes in light of availability of observations (a) As a target over land areas the RBSN should have and emerging requirements, such as those specifi ed in a spatial resolution of 150 km for surface and WMO plans for the evolution of the Global Observing 250 km for upper-air stations; System (GOS). The list of stations constituting the (b) If an RBSN station was “silent” according to current RBSN is given in the report of the most recent monitoring results, and another RBSN station session of the Association. Changes are announced in located nearby (less than 100 km for surface the monthly “Operational Newsletter” issued by the stations) had regularly reported its observa- Secretariat (see paragraph 5.1.5 below). tion, the “silent” station should be replaced in 5.1.1.2 Manned surface land stations included the RBSN. If there is no alternative regularly in the RBSN shall conform to the specifications reporting station nearby, the “silent” station laid down for land stations in Volume I of this may remain on the list if there is an intention to Manual. restore operations; 5.1.2 Surface synoptic observations (c) In data sparse areas, existing stations may be All surface stations included in the RBSN nominated for the RBSN even if there are no should make surface observations at the four main plans for them to carry out the full schedule of standard times of observation, i.e. 0000, 0600, 1200 observations; and 1800 UTC, and at the four intermediate standard (d) The nomination by a Member of a station in times of observation, i.e. 0300, 0900, 1500 and 2100 the network implies a clear commitment of the UTC. Any surface station that cannot carry out the Member concerned to make fair efforts to carry full observational programme should give priority out the schedule of observations. RESOLUTIONS 61
5.1.5 Arrangements and procedures for recognized as the regional standard for pressure for updating and amending the RBSN the Region. Certain minor changes in the RBSN of 5.2.3 Ground weather radar observations surface and upper-air synoptic stations which do not Considering that ground weather radar affect the data requirements of the Region as a whole observations have demonstrated their usefulness for are inevitable from time to time. To provide a simple short-range forecasting, for assessment of precipita- and rapid means of effecting changes proposed by tion over a given area and for the tracking of tropical the Members concerned, the following procedure cyclones and disturbances, Members which have not shall be followed: yet done so are invited to establish and maintain (a) Regional Association V authorizes the president ground weather radar stations. Members who oper- of the Association to approve, at the request of ate weather radars are encouraged to exchange the the Member concerned and in consultation with data with other Members. the Secretary-General, minor changes to the 5.2.4 Regional Instrument Centres RBSN without a formal consultation with the 5.2.4.1 Considering the need for regular calibration Members of the Association, it being understood and maintenance of meteorological instruments that any change of substance, i.e. one adversely to meet increasing needs for high-quality mete- affecting the density of the network or propos- orological and hydrological data, the requirements ing a change in observational hours, would of Members in the Region for standardization of still require the formal agreement of Members meteorological measurements, the need for inter- through the adoption of a resolution by postal national instrument comparisons and evaluations, ballot; and for training of instrument experts, the Regional (b) The Secretary-General shall notify all Members Instrument Centres should be established (see para- of WMO by circular letter of changes agreed graph 5.2.4.3 below). with the president of the Association; 5.2.4.2 Regional Instrument Centres are designated (c) Each Member of the Association is encouraged to carry out the following functions: to nominate a national focal point for WMO on (a) To keep a set of meteorological standard instru- operational matters related to the RBSN. The ments linked with recognized international or nominated national focal point should coor- national standards and to log their performance dinate information with the Rapporteur(s) on and elements of comparison; Regional Aspects of the Integrated Observing (b) To assist Members of the Region in calibrat- Systems and the Secretariat with a view to the ing their national standard meteorological timely updating of information regarding the instruments or in comparing them with the RBSN. standard instruments mentioned in (a) and to 5.2 Regional arrangements and procedures keep the Members of the Region and the WMO for observations Secretariat informed on the available standard 5.2.1 Pressure-reduction method instruments; 5.2.1.1 According to the WMO Technical (c) To be prepared to certify the instruments’ Regulations, Annex V, Manual on the Global Observing conformity with the standards with reference to System, Volume I, Part III, Regulation 3.3.2.6, the WMO recommendations; atmospheric pressure at a station shall be reduced (d) To organize instrument evaluations and compar- to mean sea level, except at those stations where isons, following standard methods; regional association resolutions prescribe otherwise. (e) To advise Members of the Region, on request, 5.2.1.2 The Association has not taken any decision regarding instrument performance and the avail- regarding the introduction of a uniform method of ability of relevant guidance material; pressure reduction throughout the Region as it consid- (f) To assist WMO in organizing symposia, seminars ers that, because of the topography of the Region and or workshops on the maintenance, calibration the fact that a large majority of the meteorological and comparison of meteorological instruments stations in the Region have an elevation of less than by providing laboratory and fi eld installations, 300 m, this is not a matter of great importance. as well as assistance with regard to demonstra- 5.2.2 Regional comparison of barometers tion equipment and expert advice; 5.2.2.1 Each Member in the Region should ensure (g) To keep a library of books and periodicals on that the barometer of each synoptic station in its instrument theory and practices; territory is compared with a fi xed national standard (h) To cooperate with other Regional Instrument barometer at least every two years. Centres to provide standardization of meteoro- 5.2.2.2 Each national standard barometer should logical instruments. be compared with one of the absolute standard 5.2.4.3 The Association has decided that the barometers recognized by WMO, within or outside Australian Regional Instrument Centre (Melbourne) the Region, at least every 10 years. and the Philippines Regional Instrument Centre 5.2.2.3 The dead weight tester in the Australian (Manila) be designated to perform the functions of Regional Instrument Centre in Melbourne shall be Regional Instrument Centres for RA V. 62 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
5.2.5 Regional Radiation Centres 5.3.2.2 The Association has asked the Rapporteur(s) 5.2.5.1 Considering the usefulness of the calibra- on Regional Aspects of the Integrated Observing tion of national and regional standard pyrheliometers Systems to liaise with the Co-rapporteurs on Regional against pyrheliometers of the World Standard Group Marine Meteorological and Oceanographic Services at fi ve-year intervals for guaranteeing the high quality on the development and operation of the GOS in of radiation data, and noting Resolution 11 (EC-XXX) support of marine services. — National, Regional and World Radiation Centres 5.3.3 Space-based observations — Regional Radiation Centres should be established Members should possess the means to with the following terms of reference: receive and display satellite imagery and quantitative (a) To possess and maintain a standard group of radi- data. For weather forecasting purposes the geosta- ometers, consisting of two absolute radiometers; tionary satellite imagery is a high priority. It is also (b) To compare at least once every fi ve years one noted that meteorological research satellites are now of the standard radiometers against the World considered as part of the GOS. Standard Group; 5.4 Regional Basic Climatological (c) To intercompare, at least once a year, the stand- Network ard radiometers with the aim of checking the 5.4.1 The Regional Basic Climatological Network stability of the individual instruments. If the (RBCN) was established by the Regional Association ratio has changed by more than ± 0.2% and if to provide a comprehensive network of CLIMAT and the erroneous instruments cannot be identifi ed, CLIMAT TEMP reporting stations. It is based primarily a recalibration at the World Radiation Centre on RBSN stations and includes the GSN and GUAN has to be performed prior to further use as a stations supplemented by other CLIMAT and CLIMAT standard; TEMP reporting stations needed for description of (d) To make available the necessary facilities and regional climate features. These supplemental surface laboratory for checking and maintaining the stations should be selected under the same criteria accuracy of the auxiliary measuring equipment; used for GSN stations. Non-RBSN stations reporting (e) To provide the necessary outdoor facilities for CLIMAT messages should be considered, particularly simultaneous comparison of national standard those with long records, as well as any Reference radiometers from the Region; Climate Stations. (f) To provide qualifi ed staff with wide experience 5.4.2 Members are urged to comply fully with in radiation for continuity of the performance of the global and regional coding procedures and data the Regional Radiation Centre; collection standards in accordance with procedures (g) To organize and carry out comparisons of laid down in the WMO Technical Regulations and national radiation standards within the Region the Manuals on the GOS, on Codes, and on the GTS in close collaboration with the other Regional when operating the RBCN stations. Radiation Centres and to maintain the standard 5.4.3 Regional Association V authorizes the presi- instruments necessary for this purpose. dent of the Association to approve, at the request of 5.2.5.2 Each Regional Radiation Centre should satisfy the Members concerned and in consultation with the the above conditions before it is designated as such and Secretary-General, minor amendments to the list of should continue to fulfi l them after being designated. RBCN stations without a formal consultation with 5.2.5.3 The Australian Regional Instrument Centre the members of the Association, following similar in Melbourne is designated to serve as the Regional procedures to those specifi ed for the RBSN. Radiation Centre in RA V. 5.4.4 CLIMAT and CLIMAT TEMP reports from 5.3 Other observing systems RBCN stations shall be regarded as essential data in 5.3.1 AMDAR Programme the sense of Resolution 40 (Cg-XII). In order to signifi cantly increase the number 5.5 Global Climate Observing System of upper-air reports for improved analysis and fore- Priority should be given by Members of the casting, Members of the Association are requested Association in the implementation of the various to explore opportunities for obtaining reports from components of the Global Climate Observing System their national airlines as part of regional or subre- (GCOS) such as the GSN, GUAN and the Baseline gional AMDAR programmes. Surface Radiation Network (BSRN). 5.3.2 Marine observations The Rapporteur(s) on Regional Aspects of 5.3.2.1 Members are urged to contribute to Integrated Observing Systems is requested to moni- programmes for collection of meteorological and tor the GCOS networks using reports produced by oceanographic observations over ocean areas. the GSN and GUAN monitoring centres. RESOLUTIONS 63
RESOLUTION 5 (XIV-RA V)
CO-RAPPORTEURS ON REGIONAL ASPECTS OF INSTRUMENT DEVELOPMENT, RELATED TRAINING AND CAPACITY-BUILDING
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), (b) To prepare guidance for the best effective NOTING: use of meteorological instrumentation; (1) The Abridged Final Report with Resolutions of the (c) To keep abreast of all matters related to Thirteenth Session of Regional Association V (South- instrument development; West Pacifi c) (WMO-No. 944), (d) To provide guidelines for coordination of (2) The Abridged Final Report with Resolutions and education and training activities for instru- Recommendations of the Thirteenth Session of ment technicians in collaboration with the the Commission for Instruments and Methods of Regional Instrument Centres and the WMO Observation (WMO-No. 947), Secretariat; CONSIDERING: (e) To facilitate liaison between the Commission (1) The importance of information on instrument for Instruments and Methods of Observation development as guidance for improving the (CIMO) and the Regional Association on equipment of surface-based observing stations matters pertaining to capacity-building in with sensors and automatic weather stations, the fi eld of instruments and methods of (2) The need for updating information on the status of observation; instrumentation used at meteorological stations and (2) To invite Mr D. Gorman (Australia) and Mr Zahiri on maintenance and calibration of instruments, bin Abdullah (Malaysia) to serve as Co-rapporteurs (3) The need for coordinating education and train- on Regional Aspects of Instrument Development, ing activities for observers, station inspectors and Related Training and Capacity-Building; technicians in the fi eld of operation, maintenance (3) To request the Co-rapporteurs to submit annual and calibration of meteorological instruments, progress reports and a fi nal report to the president DECIDES: of the Association with a copy to the president of (1) To appoint Co-rapporteurs on Regional Aspects CIMO at least six months before the next session of Instrument Development, Related Training of the Association. and Capacity-Building with the following terms of reference: (a) To update information on instrumentation ______operated at meteorological stations and on NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 4 (XIII-RA V), its maintenance and calibration; which is no longer in force.
RESOLUTION 6 (XIV-RA V)
RA V TROPICAL CYCLONE COMMITTEE FOR THE SOUTH PACIFIC AND SOUTH-EAST INDIAN OCEAN
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), (7) The reports of the sessions of the RA V Tropical NOTING: Cyclone Committee for the South Pacifi c and (1) Resolution 7 (Cg-XIV) — Tropical Cyclone South-East Indian Ocean, Programme, (8) Sections concerning the Tropical Cyclone (2) United Nations General Assembly resolution Programme in the Sixth WMO Long-term Plan 2816 (XXVI) — Assistance in cases of natural (2004–2011) (WMO-No. 962), disaster and other disaster situations, CONSIDERING the need for the countries in the RA V (3) United Nations General Assembly resolution area affected by tropical cyclones to continue to work 2914 (XXVII) — International action for the together to accelerate action, particularly within the mitigation of the harmful effects of storms, context of the SDSIDS, to reduce the loss of human life (4) United Nations General Assembly resolution and damage caused each year by tropical cyclones and 3234 (XXIX) — International cooperation in the associated phenomena, peaceful uses of outer space, DECIDES: (5) United Nations General Assembly resolutions on (1) To re-establish a working group to be known as the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction the RA V Tropical Cyclone Committee for the (ISDR), South Pacifi c and South-East Indian Ocean with (6) Decisions of the United Nations Commission the following terms of reference: on the Sustainable Development of Small Island (a) To promote and coordinate the planning Developing States (SDSIDS), and implementation of measures for the 64 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
improvement of cyclone warning systems Indonesia Solomon Islands and related meteorological services and the Kiribati Tonga facilitation of efforts to minimize loss of Micronesia, Federated United Kingdom life, human suffering and damage caused by States of United States tropical cyclones and related phenomena New Caledonia Vanuatu in the Region V area; (3) To invite the following Pacifi c island countries (b) To review regularly the status of tropi- to designate experts to participate in the work of cal cyclone warning systems in the the Committee: RA V Tropical Cyclone Committee area and Marshall Islands Timor-Leste recommend measures for the development Nauru Tokelau or improvement of these systems; Palau Tuvalu (c) To review regularly the Tropical Cyclone (4) To invite the chairperson of the RA I Tropical Operational Plan for the South Pacifi c and Cyclone Committee for the South-West Indian South-East Indian Ocean and recommend Ocean to serve as an ex-offi cio member; any amendments to the text of the Plan to (5) To designate, in accordance with Regulation 32 the President of RA V for approval; of the WMO General Regulations, Mr M. Bergin (d) To coordinate its work with other activi- (Australia) as chairperson of the Committee; ties carried out within the WMO Tropical (6) To elect a vice-chairperson who will continue Cyclone Programme, in particular with the in that role until the next session and become RA I Tropical Cyclone Committee for the the interim chairperson should the incumbent South-East Indian Ocean and the Economic chairperson have to stand down for any reason; and Social Commssion for Asia and the REQUESTS the chairperson of the Committee to provide Pacifi c (ESCAP)/WMO Typhoon Committee; progress reports at least once a year, especially in rela- (e) To coordinate its activities with other RA V tion to the implementation of the Technical Plan, to working groups and rapporteurs; the Members of the Tropical Cyclone Committee and (f) To develop, update and facilitate the imple- to submit a report to the fifteenth session of RA V; mentation of the Technical Plan of the REQUESTS the Secretary-General: RA V Tropical Cyclone Committee; (1) To convene biennial sessions of the Committee; (g) To seek through WMO RA V fi nancial (2) To continue to take the necessary steps to and technical support for the programme assist the Committee and to ensure the provi- activities; sion of appropriate Secretariat support to its (2) To invite the following Members of RA V to activities. nominate experts to serve on the Committee: Australia New Zealand Cook Islands Niue ______Fiji Papua New Guinea NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 5 (XIII-RA V), French Polynesia Samoa which is no longer in force.
RESOLUTION 7 (XIV-RA V)
RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF THE WORKING GROUP ON CLIMATE-RELATED MATTERS
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), NOTING: CONSIDERING the need for the Association to (1) The reports and recommendations of rappor- strengthen and coordinate its activities in climate teurs, focal points and the chairperson on activities of particular importance to the Region, climate matters contained in the Working Group DECIDES: on Climate Matters meeting report, (1) To re-establish the Working Group on Climate- (2) The report of the RA V Task Team on the related Matters with the following terms of Provision of Seasonal to Inter-annual Forecasts reference: and Regional Climate Services, (a) To provide advice on methods to identify (3) The Sixth WMO Long-term Plan (2004–2011) needs and then to strengthen and improve (WMO-No. 962), climate observations, data rescue, data (4) The work and reports of WMO’s Commission for management and data sets to meet these Climatology (CCl) and the Intergovernmental needs; Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), (b) To coordinate observational and other (5) The discussions on climate-related issues by climate-related matters with the Global Fourteenth Congress (2003) and the fi fty-fi fth Climate Observing System (GCOS) and the session of the Executive Council, Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) (6) The relevant regional frameworks and plans, programmes; RESOLUTIONS 65
(c) To provide advice on methods to strengthen (e) Ms J. Pahalad (Australia) to serve as the and improve climate system monitoring, Rapporteur on Climate Information and analyses and indices; Prediction Services within the Region; (d) To keep abreast of the activities of CCl, (f) Mr S. McGree (Fiji) to serve as the Rapporteur IPCC, the United Nations Framework on Geographical Information Systems in Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) the Provision of Climate Services; and other climate-related bodies, report (g) Mr M.A. Ratag (Indonesia) to serve as the results of meetings and workshops, and Rapporteur on Climate Support to Disaster encourage strong regional involvement in Prevention and Mitigation with Special these bodies; Emphasis on Climate Change, Climate (e) To provide advice on and assist in the imple- Variability and Extreme Weather Events; mentation of various climate information (h) Mr R. Kumar (Fiji) to serve as the Rapporteur and prediction services in RA V, including on Climate-related Education and Training Climate Information and Prediction Services Requirements in the Region and Sources of (CLIPS), in many different sectors, including the Required Training; agriculture, renewable energy, bioclimatic (i) Mr M.J. Salinger (New Zealand) and indices, urban and building planning, risk Mr Tham Chien Wan (Singapore) to serve management, air quality and health; as the Co-rapporteurs on Regional Climate (f) To examine, coordinate, report on and Centres; encourage the use of Geographical (j) Mr Lim Boon Seng (Malaysia) to serve as Information Systems (GISs) in the provi- the Rapporteur on Statistical and Dynamic sion of climate services; Climate Modelling and Downscaling. (g) To provide advice on, assist in identifying The rapporteurs should function both individually and coordinate attendance at climate-related within their designated responsibilities and also as education and training courses/workshops, a team in order to accomplish the Working Group’s including information technology and terms of reference. management, based upon a survey of the (3) To select Mr J. Weyman (United States) to chair training requirements in the Region; the Working Group; (h) To provide further advice and propos- (4) That Members may nominate other experts to als on the role, structure and mechanism serve on the Working Groups, as required; of the Regional Climate Centres in the (5) The Working Group may invite selected climate region, using the report on the recom- experts to attend their meetings, funding and mended mechanism for consideration and resources permitting; the recommendation in Appendix B to the REQUESTS: report of the WMO RA V Working Group (1) The Working Group chairperson and members to on Climate Matters submitted to the four- liaise with members of related Open Programme teenth session of RA V as a basis; Area Groups (OPAGs) and expert teams of the (i) To review and provide advice/guidance on WMO CCl, the Commission for Basic Systems the use of statistical and dynamic climate (CBS), and other technical commissions and modelling and downscaling to produce committees; GCOS; GOOS; IPCC; and relevant useable regional and national climate fore- regional groups such as the Secretariat of the casts and products; Pacifi c Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), (j) To provide advice and proposals on other the South Pacifi c Applied Geoscience Commission important climate-related issues as they (SOPAC), the Intergovernmental Oceanographic develop and evolve; Commission (IOC) Sub-Commission for the (2) To select the following experts to serve as rappor- Western Pacifi c and the Association of the South- teurs of the Working Group in the capacities East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Sub-Committee on indicated: Meteorology and Geophysics; (a) Mr W. Young (Samoa) to serve as the (2) The Working Group chairperson to develop Rapporteur on Climate Observations and a technical plan with specific goals, objec- Data Management; tives, strategies and performance measures (b) Mr H. Diamond (United States) to serve as and to submit annual progress reports to the the Rapporteur on GCOS (including GAW) president of the Association, other reports of and GOOS activities; meetings, activities and accomplishments, as (c) Mr L. Maitrepierre (New Caledonia) to appropriate, and a final report no later than serve as the Rapporteur on Climate System six months before the fifteenth session of the Monitoring, Analyses and Indices; Association. (d) Mr D.S. Wratt (New Zealand) to serve as the ______Rapporteur on IPCC, UNFCCC, and CCl NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 7 (XIII-RA V), Activities Pertaining to the Region; which is no longer in force. 66 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
RESOLUTION 8 (XIV-RA V)
RAPPORTEUR ON THE GLOBAL ATMOSPHERE WATCH
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), including ozone with the following terms of NOTING: reference: (1) Resolution 10 (Cg-XIII) — Atmospheric Research (a) To survey, report on and promote Members’ and Environment Programme, efforts in the GAW programmes; (2) WMO Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), (b) To advise on the further development of the Volume I, Chapter B.2, Global Atmosphere GAW network in the Region with special Watch (GAW), emphasis on data quality, data reporting CONSIDERING: and application to regional and national (1) The ever-increasing awareness of a number of environmental issues and on integrating environmental issues which are being addressed ground- and satellite-based observation through the GAW, systems; (2) That WMO has a long history of facilitating and (c) To assist the WMO Secretariat through coordinating activities concerning the moni- the Open Programme Area Group on toring and assessment of global atmospheric Environmental Pollution and Atmospheric chemical composition and related physical char- Chemistry (OPAG-EPAC) of the Commission acteristics, focusing upon six groups of variables for Atmospheric Sciences (CAS) in the related to ozone, ultraviolet radiation, green- exchange of information and support house gases, aerosols (i.e. suspended particulate of cooperative research and monitoring matter), selected reactive gases and precipitation projects in the fi eld of atmospheric chemis- chemistry; try and pollution in the Region; (3) The establishment of the GAW programme by (d) To promote and advise on calibration the forty-fi rst session of the Executive Council, and quality assurance centres and related (4) That the Eleventh World Meteorological Congress activities, including calibration of various stated that GAW should be a major component of monitoring instruments; the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS), (2) To invite Mr Nurhayati (Indonesia) to serve as the (5) The need to keep fully abreast of developments Rapporteur on the Global Atmosphere Watch; related to GAW in the Region, including activi- (3) To request the Rapporteur to submit annual reports ties such as quality assurance/calibration of on Regional GAW activities for distribution to observations, the support of ozone and climate Members of the Region and the OPAG-EPAC of assessments and the exchange of experience in CAS, including a fi nal report six months before research and monitoring, the next session of the Association. DECIDES: ______(1) To appoint one scientifi c expert as Rapporteur on NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolutions 8 and 9 the Global Atmosphere Watch regional activities (XIII-RA V), which are no longer in force.
RESOLUTION 9 (XIV-RA V)
RAPPORTEUR ON WWRP-THORPEX
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), Services, academia and related agencies of CONSIDERING: the Region in the activities of THORPEX; (1) The wide interest in participating in the devel- (c) To liaise with the Commission for Atmospheric opment and implementation of the THORPEX Science’s Open Programme Area Group on Programme in the Region, the World Weather Research Programme; (2) That the Region should be kept informed of (d) To keep the Association informed on the progress of THORPEX, regional plans and THORPEX activities in the Region in activities, accordance with the THORPEX Inter- DECIDES: national Science Plan and the THORPEX (1) To appoint a Rapporteur on WWRP-THORPEX International Research Implementation with the following terms of reference: Plan and specifi c regional activities; (a) To serve as a focal point for WWRP- (e) To advise and promote, within the Region, an THORPEX in Regional Association V exchange of information and publications (South-West Pacifi c); relating to THORPEX activities; (b) To encourage and facilitate the partici- (2) To invite Mr M. Ratag (Indonesia) to serve as pation of the National Meteorological Rapporteur on WWRP-THORPEX; RESOLUTIONS 67
(3) To request the Rapporteur to submit annual reports, and a fi nal report no later than six months before as appropriate, to the president of the Association the next session of the Association.
RESOLUTION 10 (XIV-RA V)
WORKING GROUP ON AGRICULTURAL METEOROLOGY
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), of climate forecasts and recommend how NOTING: user needs in the Region can be more effec- (1) Resolution 14 (Cg-XIV) — Agricultural tively met; Meteorology Programme, (c) To recommend appropriate risk manage- (2) The Abridged Final Report with Resolutions and ment strategies in agriculture, forestry and Recommendations of the Thirteenth Session of fi sheries for adapting to current and future the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology climate change and other extreme climate (WMO-No. 951), events in the Region and suggest how they (3) Resolution 10 (XIII-RA V) — Working Group on can be promoted through better communi- Agricultural Meteorology, cation and more targeted applications; (4) The recommendations made by the session (d) To recommend appropriate strategies for of the RA V Working Group on Agricultural preparedness and management for sustain- Meteorology held from 6 to 10 March 2006 in able agriculture, rangelands, forestry and Bukittingi, West Sumatra (Indonesia), fi sheries under conditions of drought and CONSIDERING: extreme temperatures; (1) The economic importance of agriculture to the (e) To assess the economic impacts of countries in RA V (South-West Pacifi c), agrometeorological information in the (2) The impact of El Niño/Southern Oscillation South-West Pacifi c through specifi c case (ENSO) and climate variability on agriculture studies; and forestry in the Region, (f) To review the institutional impediments to (3) The impact of extreme events and natural disas- more effective cooperation between mete- ters on agriculture, forestry and fi sheries, orological services and agricultural, forestry URGES Members: and fi shery agencies and suggest effective (1) To undertake studies on the more active applica- ways and means to foster an improved tions of agricultural meteorology for promoting multidisciplinary approach to weather and sustainable agriculture in the Region; climate applications in agriculture, forestry (2) To assess the potential impacts of current and and fi sheries in the Region; future climate change and extreme climate (g) To evaluate the use of remote-sensing tech- events on sustainable agriculture in the Region niques for monitoring crop growth phases, and develop appropriate strategies to cope with crop loss due to climate hazards and crop such impacts; production, and promote their application (3) To strengthen linkages between meteorologi- in operational agrometeorology; cal/climatological services and the agricultural (2) To invite the following experts to serve as sector; members of the Working Group: DECIDES: Ms R.H. Angas (Brunei Darussalam) (1) To establish a Working Group on Agricultural Mr A. Ngari (Cook Islands) Meteorology with the following terms of Mr D. Aranug (Federated States of Micronesia) reference: Mr R. Lata (Fiji) (a) To review and recommend applications of Mr T. Redfern (Kiribati) seasonal to inter-annual climate forecasts Mr L. Maitrepierre (New Caledonia) to agriculture, forestry and fi sheries in the Mr S. Tukutama (Niue) South-West Pacifi c, through active collab- Mr A. Porteous (New Zealand) oration with the Climate Information Mr K. Inape (Papua New Guinea) and Prediction Services (CLIPS) and the Mr A. Titimaea (Samoa) Commission for Agricultural Meteorology Mr S. Vite (Tonga) (CAgM); (3) To invite Mr R. Boer (Indonesia) to act as chair- (b) To assess the current level of interaction person of the Working Group on Agricultural with user communities in the applications Meteorology; 68 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
(4) To request the chairperson to allocate respon- members to the president of the Association no sibilities in consultation with the members of later than six months before the next session of the Group for the various tasks contained in the the Association. terms of reference; ______(5) To request the chairperson to submit a fi nal NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 10 report comprising individual reports of the (XIII-RA V), which is no longer in force.
RESOLUTION 11 (XIV-RA V)
RAPPORTEUR ON REGIONAL ASPECTS OF THE AERONAUTICAL METEOROLOGY PROGRAMME IN REGION V
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), (c) To monitor and promote capacity- NOTING: building activities related to the AeMP (1) The need to monitor and keep under review within the Region and to identify training developments in aeronautical meteorology in requirements; the Region, (d) To keep abreast of matters related to the (2) The need for coordination among RA V Members implementation of Aircraft Meteorological of activities related to aeronautical meteorol- Data Relay (AMDAR) programmes and ogy and for reporting these activities to the projects in the Region; Region and the Commission for Aeronautical (e) To liaise by correspondence with the CAeM Meteorology (CAeM), Open Programme Area Groups (OPAGs) and CONSIDERING that the monitoring, review and coordi- the ICAO meteorological groups through nation of aeronautical meteorological issues would be their respective Secretariats on specifi c of great benefit to Members in the Region, regional matters, in particular those related DECIDES: to cost recovery for aeronautical meteoro- (1) To appoint a Rapporteur on Regional Aspects logical services; of the Aeronautical Meteorology Programme (f) To provide the president of RA V with advice (AeMP) with the following terms of reference: on aeronautical meteorology matters and (a) To review and advise on observational data to take action, as relevant; and product requirements of countries in (2) To invite Mr Tan Huvi Vein (Malaysia) to serve the Region in the context of the AeMP; as Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of the (b) To review the status of the implementa- Aeronautical Meteorology Programme; tion of the AeMP in the Region, including (3) To request the Rapporteur to submit annual observing systems at aerodromes, aircraft reports on his activities to the president of the data collection, and services provided Association as well as fi nal reports six months under the World Area Forecast System before the next session of the Association, with (WAFS), and to formulate proposals through copies sent to the WMO Secretariat. the WMO Secretariat to the appropriate International Civil Aviation Organization ______(ICAO) bodies for its future development NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 11 and implementation; (XIII-RA V), which is no longer in force.
RESOLUTION 12 (XIV-RA V)
CO-RAPPORTEURS ON REGIONAL MARINE METEOROLOGICAL AND OCEANOGRAPHIC SERVICES
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), (JCOMM) with regard to matters affecting the NOTING the report of the Co-rapporteurs on Regional Region, Oceanographic and Marine Meteorological Services, (3) The geographical extent of the Region, and the CONSIDERING: consequent diffi culties for a single rapporteur to (1) The need for continued development of marine fully cover all activities over this area, meteorological and oceanographic services in DECIDES: Region V, (1) To appoint two Co-rapporteurs on Regional (2) The need to continue close liaison with the Marine Meteorological and Oceanographic Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Services with the following terms of Oceanography and Marine Meteorology reference: RESOLUTIONS 69
(a) To continuously review the status of the imple- on Regional Marine Meteorological and mentation of marine meteorological and Oceanographic Services; oceanographic services and marine observing (3) To request the Co-rapporteurs to submit annual systems in Region V, and to formulate sugges- reports, as appropriate, to the president of the tions for their further development; Association, with a fi nal report to be presented (b) To take action on marine meteorological six months prior to the fi fteenth session of the and oceanographic matters assigned by the Association; president of RA V; REQUESTS the Secretary-General to assist the Co- (c) To liaise with the appropriate JCOMM rapporteurs in their work, as appropriate. working groups and subgroups on specifi c matters concerning Region V; ______(2) To invite Mr P. Parker (Australia) and Ms Lim Lay NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 12 (XIII-RA V), Eng (Singapore) to serve as the Co-rapporteurs which is no longer in force.
RESOLUTION 13 (XIV-RA V)
WORKING GROUP ON HYDROLOGY
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V(SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), (v) Improving hydrological network NOTING: maintenance and ensuring its (1) The report of its Working Group on Hydrology sustainability; (WGH), (vi) Increasing knowledge on fl ood and (2) Resolution 17 (Cg-XIV) — Hydrology and Water drought forecasting, within the Resources Programme, contex of climate variability and (3) Resolution 37 (Cg-XIII) — Terms of reference of change; the technical commissions, (vii) Supporting the sustainability of tech- (4) The Sixth WMO Long-term Plan (2004-2011) nology as it is introduced through new (WMO-No. 962), projects, such as the Pacifi c HYCOS, (5) Resolution 14 (XIII-RA V) — Working Group on both during the projects and following Hydrology, their completion; (6) Resolution 20 (Cg-XII) — World Hydrological (d) To cooperate with the Commission for Cycle Observing System (WHYCOS), Hydrology (CHy) and other WMO bodies CONSIDERING that Regional Association V should on projects relating to hydrology and water continue to play an important and active role in the resources; implementation of WMO’s regional activities relating (e) To undertake activities in the priority areas to hydrology and water resources, as given in (c) above; DECIDES: (f) To identify areas of collaboration between (1) To re-establish the WGH with the following WMO, the United Nations Educational, terms of reference: Scientifi c and Cultural Organization (a) To provide assistance and advice to the (UNESCO), the South Pacifi c Applied president of the Association on all issues Geoscience Commission (SOPAC) and relating to the regional aspects of the the Secretariat of the Pacifi c Regional Hydrology and Water Resources Programme Environment Programme (SPREP) in (HWRP); addressing the hydrology and water (b) To determine the best way to meet the resources needs of the countries of the Region’s needs in terms of hydrology and Region, including their training needs; water resources; (g) To assist in hydrological training activities (c) To carry out the HWRP-related activities through the organization of training activities focusing on the following areas: as required, including roving seminars with the (i) Raising the visibility of National services of experts from within the Region; Hydrological Services (NHSs) and (h) To assist NHSs in hydrological network WMO in the Region; maintenance support; (ii) Raising awareness of water issues at (i) To identify and support public awareness of the national level; water issues; (iii) Establishing a virtual information (j) To support activities related to climate centre and re-establishing the Regional change and variability in the Region (includ- Newsletter; ing El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO)); (iv) Targeting training and improved (2) To invite all Members in the Region to designate human resources development and national hydrological experts to serve on the capacity in RA V; Working Group and attend its meetings; 70 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
(3) To designate, in accordance with General coordinate the RA V WGH’s activities with CHy Regulations 167(b) and 32, respectively, and other regional WGHs; Mr C. Pearson (New Zealand) as Regional (5) To submit to the president of the Regional Hydrological Adviser and chairperson of the WGH; Association an annual report by 31 December REQUESTS the Regional Hydrological Adviser and every year and a fi nal report no later than chairperson of the Working Group: six months before the fi fteenth session of RA V; (1) To establish, in consultation with the president URGES the Members concerned to give full support to of RA V, the Working Group core members to the Regional Hydrological Adviser and the rapporteurs assist in implementing the work programme from their countries so that they may carry out the during the intersessional period; tasks entrusted to them; (2) In his capacity as Adviser, to assist the president REQUESTS the Secretary-General: of RA V in accordance with the duties stipulated (1) To provide assistance in promoting hydrological in WMO General Regulation 167(b); activities in the Region, including seeking funds (3) As chairperson of the Working Group, to prepare to implement projects that are prepared as part an implementation plan and to designate, in of the activities of the WGH; consultation with the president of the Regional (2) To publish in the technical document series Association, appropriate members from the selected technical reports prepared by the Working Group to undertake work in the areas Working Group, and distribute them to all specifi ed under DECIDES; concerned. (4) To participate in Executive Council sessions, ______when invited, representing regional interests in NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 14 (XIII-RA V), relation to hydrology and water resources and to which is no longer in force.
RESOLUTION 14 (XIV-RAV)
RAPPORTEUR ON EDUCATION AND TRAINING MATTERS
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), (d) To identify and prioritize requirements for NOTING: training materials and initiate the prepara- (1) Resolution 19 (Cg-XIV) — Education and Training tion of new training publications; Programme, (e) To assess the needs in the training of (2) General summary paragraph 8.6 of the Abridged instructors at national training institutions Final Report with Resolutions of the Forty-eighth and the WMO RMTC; Session of the Executive Council (WMO-No. 846) (f) To assist in the development of WMO Long- on the role of rapporteurs appointed by regional term Plans for the implementation of the associations on education and training matters, Education and Training Programme; CONSIDERING that there continues to be a pressing (2) To invite Mr S. Chene (New Caledonia) to serve as need by Members for staff to be trained at all levels Rapporteur on Education and Training Matters; so that they can plan, manage, organize and carry out (3) To request the Rapporteur to submit to the presi- programmes in meteorology and related fields essen- dent of the Association annual activity reports tial to economic and social development, and a fi nal report six months prior to the fi fteenth DECIDES: session of the Association; (1) To designate a Rapporteur on Education and Training REQUESTS: Matters with the following terms of reference: (1) The Secretary-General of WMO to assist the (a) To keep under review and provide advice on Rapporteur in his work, as appropriate; priority subject requirements for regional (2) Members and relevant international organiza- and specialized education and training; tions to facilitate the work of the Rapporteur, by (b) To examine the feasibility of introducing providing, upon request, information related to specialized training courses at the WMO the items in DECIDES (1) (a) to (f) above. Regional Meteorological Traning Centre (RMTC); (c) To advise on the application of a technology- ______intensive approach to the education and NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 15 (XIII-RA V), training process; which is no longer in force. RESOLUTIONS 71
RESOLUTION 15 (XIV-RA V)
WORKING GROUP ON NATURAL DISASTER PREVENTION AND MITIGATION IN REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC)
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), DECIDES: NOTING: (1) To establish a Working Group on Natural Disaster (1) Resolution 29 (Cg-XIV) — Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation in RA V with the Prevention and Mitigation Programme, following terms of reference: (2) The Abridged Final Report with Resolutions of (a) To consider DPM problems within the the Fourteenth World Meteorological Congress context of the specifi c characteristics and (WMO-No. 960), general summary paragraphs needs of the Region and then make recom- 7.4.1 to 7.4.21 and 3.4.1.23, mendations to Members on the preparation (3) Resolution 5 (EC-LVI) — Executive Council of appropriate and targeted regional plans Advisory Group on Natural Disaster Prevention of action; and Mitigation, (b) To identify and evaluate good practices (4) The Abridged Final Report with Resolutions of at the regional level on policy and activi- the Fifty-sixth Session of the Executive Council ties related to DPM, and to coordinate the (WMO-No. 977), general summary paragraphs exchange of information on current good 11.1 to 11.13, practices with the respective network of (5) The Abridged Final Report with Resolutions of focal points on natural disasters and with the Fifty-seventh Session of the Executive Council the DPM Programme; (WMO-No. 988), (c) To identify opportunities and assist WMO (6) The Revised DPM Implementation Plan, and Members in the establishment of stra- (7) The outcome documents of the World tegic partnerships of regional interest; Conference on Disaster Reduction (Kobe, (d) To conduct a needs analysis on the capacity- Hyogo, Japan, 18 to 22 January 2005), includ- building requirements of Members in the ing the Hyogo Declaration and the Hyogo Region; Framework for Action 2005–2015: Building (e) To coordinate its activities with other the Resilience of Nations and Communities to RA V working groups and assist the Disasters, Secretariat in carrying out activities within (8) That several National Meteorological and the Region relating to the WMO DPM Hydrological Services (NMHSs) have estab- Programme; lished partnerships with disaster risk (f) To advise on how NMHSs can strengthen management agencies at the national and their linkages to the national emergency regional levels, and that their experience and disaster risk management and emer- would be valuable for the formulation of the gency structures in their countries; Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (2) To invite the following experts to serve as (DPM) Programme, members of the Working Group: CONSIDERING: (1) That RA V is exposed to various hydrometeoro- Mr A. Ngari (Cook Islands) logical natural disasters such as tropical cyclones, Mr D. Aranug (Federated States of Micronesia) monsoons and fl oods as well as earthquakes and Mr R. Prasad (Fiji) tsunamis, Mr F. Troc (French Polynesia) (2) That DPM is a major regional concern for human Mr P. Harjadi (Indonesia) socio-economic activities and environmental Mr T. Kireua (Kiribati) protection, Mr Low Kong Chiew (Malaysia) (3) That a wide range of activities of WMO Mr S. Chene (New Caledonia) Programmes are related to natural disaster Mr R. Stainer (New Zealand) reduction, Mr S. Pulehetoa (Niue) (4) That there is a need to establish an effective Mr S. Maiha (Papua New Guinea) framework for support to regional activities Ms F. Nelson (Samoa) on DPM to ensure that all gaps and needs Mr Zong Miow Koon (Singapore) are addressed in a prioritized, systematic and Mr M. Takai (Tonga) sustainable manner through a coordinated Mr N. Rydell (United States) approach, (5) That there is the need for adequate refl ection on (3) To invite representatives from the issues relating to natural disasters of hydromete- Intergovernmental Coordination Groups for the orological origin in international and regional Indian Ocean and the Pacifi c Tsunami Warning conferences and events, Systems to participate in the Working Group; 72 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
(4) To invite Mr L. Anderson-Berry (Australia) to act (6) To request the chairperson to submit annual as chairperson; reports, as appropriate, to the president of the (5) To request the chairperson, in consultation Association, with a fi nal report to be presented with the Management Group and taking into six months prior to the next session of the account relevant plans of the Association, to Association; identify specifi c tasks for the Working Group to REQUESTS the Secretary-General to take the relevant undertake and to allocate the tasks in consulta- actions to support the activities of the Working Group, tion with the members of the Group; within the available budget.
RESOLUTION 16 (XIV-RA V)
RAPPORTEUR FOR THE WMO SPACE PROGRAMME
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), (b) To evaluate the WMO Space Programme NOTING: Implementation Plan and advise Members (1) Resolution 5 (Cg-XIV) — WMO Space Programme, of the Region on regional activities that a new and major cross-cutting Programme, will contribute fully to the exploitation of (2) Resolution 6 (Cg-XIV) — WMO Consultative satellite data, products and services; Meetings on High-level Policy on Satellite (c) To coordinate with other Regional WMO Matters, Space Programme Rapporteurs on relevant RECOGNIZING the importance and great potential Space Programme activities; available through the exploitation of satellite data, (d) To provide the president of the products and services from the expanded space- Association with appropriate informa- based component of the Global Observing System tion, advice and recommendations to be (GOS) as described in the WMO Space Programme presented under the appropriate agenda Implementation Plan for 2004–2007, items at sessions of technical commis- FURTHER recognizing the necessity for involvement sions, joint sessions of the presidents of by Members of the Region in regional implementation technical commissions and presidents activities for the WMO Space Programme, of regional associations, and sessions of DECIDES: the Executive Council; (1) To appoint a Rapporteur for the WMO Space (2) To invite Mr D. Griersmith (Australia) to serve as Programme with the following terms of reference: the Rapporteur for the WMO Space Programme; (a) To coordinate with the WMO Space (3) To request the Rapporteur to submit annual Programme Offi ce on regional aspects of the reports, as appropriate, to the president of the WMO Space Programme Implementation Association and a fi nal report six months before Plan; the next session of the Association.
RESOLUTION 17 (XIV-RA V)
RAPPORTEUR FOR THE GLOBAL EARTH OBSERVATION SYSTEM OF SYSTEMS
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), to the governing bodies of international and NOTING: regional organizations sponsoring existing Earth (1) The Declaration of the fi rst Earth Observation observing systems to support the action of the Summit, held in Washington D.C. on 31 July Summit, 2003, for improved coordination of observing (3) Resolution 9 (EC-LVI) — Global Earth Observation systems towards a comprehensive, coordinated System of Systems, and sustained Earth observation system or RECOGNIZING the significant opportunity for GEOSS systems, to provide societal benefits, capacity-building and (2) The Communiqué of the second Earth sustainable development through improved obser- Observation Summit, held in Tokyo (Japan) on vations and a better understanding of the Earth 25 April 2004, adopting the Framework Document system, its atmosphere, oceans, land surface and that describes principal benefi ts of Earth observa- freshwater, geology, natural resources, ecosystems tions for a broad range of user communities and and natural and human-induced hazards and the the fundamental elements to be included in the vast experience and considerable expertise through- 10-Year Implementation Plan for what would out the Region, henceforth be called a Global Earth Observation URGES Members to become fully involved in the plan- System of Systems (GEOSS); and the invitation ning and implementation of GEOSS; RESOLUTIONS 73
STRESSES the importance of assisting the National WMO-sponsored and jointly sponsored Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) of observing systems and components relevant developing countries in the Region to participate fully to GEOSS; in GEOSS through the strengthening of their observ- (b) To coordinate with other Regional GEOSS ing networks and the enhancement of their provision rapporteurs on relevant GEOSS activities; of services in support of the social and economic bene- (c) To provide the president of the Association fits of their national commitments; with appropriate information, advice and ENCOURAGES the Permanent Representatives of recommendations to be presented under Members to work closely with other Earth observation the appropriate agenda items at sessions agencies at the national level to ensure the develop- of technical commissions, joint sessions ment of well-coordinated national plans for GEOSS of the presidents of technical commissions implementation; and presidents of regional associations, and DECIDES: sessions of the Executive Council; (1) To appoint a Rapporteur for the Global Earth (d) To inform the WMO Secretariat on a regular Observation System of Systems with the follow- basis of regional GEOSS activities; ing terms of reference: (2) To invite Ms A. Apostolou (Australia) to serve as (a) To evaluate the GEOSS Implementation the Rapporteur for the Global Earth Observation Plan and advise Members of the Region on System of Systems; regional activities that will contribute fully (3) To request the Rapporteur to submit annual to the development and implementation reports, as appropriate, to the president of the of GEOSS, including enhanced operation Association and a fi nal report six months before of the World Weather Watch and other the next session of the Association.
RESOLUTION 18 (XIV-RA V)
MANAGEMENT GROUP OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC)
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), (d) To address other issues not covered by NOTING: working groups or rapporteurs; (1) The Abridged Final Report with Resolutions of (e) To develop, update, coordinate and monitor the Fourteenth World Meteorological Congress strategic plans for the Region, including the (WMO-No. 960), Strategic Action Plan for the Development (2) The Abridged Final Report with Resolutions of the of Meteorology in the Pacifi c Region Thirteenth Session of Regional Association V (South- 2000–2009, and to provide the Region’s West Pacifi c) (WMO-No. 944), contribution to the WMO Strategic Plan, (3) The reports of the meetings of the RA V Advisory including overseeing the development of Working Group, the RA V Strategic Plan and its eventual CONSIDERING the proposal of the Advisory Working implementation; Group of the Association, (f) To assess and evaluate the implementation RECOGNIZING the need to have a mechanism to of the Regional Programme with regard to address issues not handled by other working groups the activities of RA V as per the WMO Long- or rapporteurs, term Plan; DECIDES: (g) To review the requirements and priorities of (1) To establish a Management Group of Regional training and other events to be organized Association V (South-West Pacifi c) (RA V MG) in the Region; with the following terms of reference: (h) To address ways and means of enhancing (a) To review matters related to the work of the technical assistance to Members in the Association, in particular matters requir- Region for the implementation of WMO ing actions that cannot wait until the next Programmes and activities; regular session of the Association; (2) To invite the president to act as chairperson of the (b) To plan and coordinate the work of the Management Group, which is composed of the Association and its subsidiary bodies; president, the vice-president and three Directors (c) To review the structure and work of the of National Meteorological and Hydrological subsidiary bodies of the Association, includ- Services (NMHSs) to be invited by the president ing advice on the implementation of their for each session; recommendations and taking into account (3) The president may invite, as appropriate, other fi nancial and other resources needed in the Directors of NMHSs and chairpersons of RA V work of these bodies; working groups or rapporteurs to participate in 74 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
the meetings of RA V MG, subject to the avail- FURTHER REQUESTS the president to report to the ability of fi nancial resources; Association during the intersessional period, as neces- REQUESTS the president to ensure that subregions are sary, and at its next regular session on the activities of represented as appropriate on the Management Group, the Management Group and relevant decisions taken and that the Group meets annually, or as needed, pref- on behalf of the Association. erably in conjunction with other meetings or events; AUTHORIZES the president to take necessary decisions ______on behalf of the Association, after consultation with NOTE: This resolution replaces Resolution 17 the Management Group, on important matters; (XIII-RA V), which is no longer in force.
RESOLUTION 19 (XIV-RA V)
REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE ASSOCIATION
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), NOTING general summary paragraph 3.7.1 of the (3) That some of the previous resolutions are still to Abridged Final Report with Resolutions of the Ninth Session be implemented, of the Executive Committee (WMO-No. 67), DECIDES: CONSIDERING: (1) To keep in force Resolutions 5 (X-RA V), 10 (1) That a number of its resolutions adopted before its (X-RA V), 10 (XI-RA V), 4 (XII-RA V), 7 (XII-RA fourteenth session have been revised and incorpo- V), 13 (XIII-RA V) and 16 (XIII-RA V); rated in resolutions of the fourteenth session, (2) Not to keep in force the other resolutions adopted (2) That some of its other previous resolutions have before its fourteenth session; been incorporated in appropriate WMO publica- (3) To publish the text of the resolutions kept in tions or have become obsolete, force in the annex to this resolution.
ANNEX TO RESOLUTION 19 (XIV-RA V)
RESOLUTIONS OF RA V ADOTPED PRIOR TO ITS FOURTEENTH SESSION AND MAINTAINED IN FORCE
Resolution 5 (X-RA V) or collectively, to evaluate the effectiveness of these FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF THE GLOBAL systems and their integration in the WWW; OBSERVING SYSTEM ENCOURAGES Members to seek VCP assistance for REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), the installation of satellite-data ground receiving NOTING: stations, weather radar and new observing systems (1) Resolution 25 (Cg-X) — Second WMO Long-term such as ASDAR, ASAP and buoys; Plan, by which the WWW Programme, includ- URGES Members to: ing the WWW Implementation Programme for (1) Provide additional surface observations in ocean RA V, was adopted, areas using the Voluntary Observing Ships (2) The progress being made in the implementa- scheme, buoys and suitable fi xed platforms; tion of the ASDAR, ASAP and drifting buoy (2) Consider the possibility of deploying ASAP programmes, systems on ships and ASDARs or other auto- CONSIDERING: mated data-collection systems on aircraft fl ying (1) That large parts of the Region are data-sparse suitable routes over the ocean; areas, (3) Examine the communication facilities and (2) The importance of an effective Regional Basic data quality-control procedures to ensure Synoptic Network and the essential need to that the data are of high quality and are integrate the RBSN with the overall GOS, received at the data-processing centres in a (3) The need to have comprehensive and realis- timely fashion; tic information on the value of new observing REQUESTS the Rapporteur on the Regional Aspects systems, their costs and their interfaces with of the Global Observing System to keep abreast of other parts of the regional programme, developments in the implementation of this resolu- INVITES Members to participate in the deployment tion by Members and to report to the next session of and use of new observing systems and, individually the Association. RESOLUTIONS 75
Resolution 10 (X-RA V) (2) The operation of Coast Earth Stations (CES) of TROPICAL CYCLONE OPERATIONAL PLAN INMARSAT in Region V, FOR THE SOUTH PACIFIC AND SOUTH-EAST (3) The equipping of an increased number of ships INDIAN OCEAN participating in the WMO Voluntary Observing REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), Ships (VOS) scheme with Ship Earth Stations NOTING: (SES) of INMARSAT, in particular with the (1) A series of resolutions by the General Assembly INMARSAT-C facility, of the United Nations calling for international CONSIDERING: cooperation and action by WMO for the mitiga- (1) The need to increase the number of ships’ mete- tion of the harmful effects of storms, in particular orological and oceanographic reports from most in connection with the International Decade for of the sea areas of Region V, Natural Disaster Reduction (IDNDR), (2) The considerable improvements to be expected (2) Resolution 5 (Cg-X) — Tropical Cyclone in the receipt of marine meteorological and Programme, oceanographic observations from ships at sea (3) With appreciation the fi nal report of the second through the enhanced use of the INMARSAT session of the RA V Tropical Cyclone Committee system, for the South Pacifi c, (3) The cost-savings which will accrue to those (4) Resolution 11 (X-RA V) — Tropical Cyclone Members collecting such reports through Committee for the South Pacifi c and South-East INMARSAT by the increased use of the new Indian Ocean, INMARSAT-C facility for this purpose, CONSIDERING: RECOGNIZING with appreciation that certain Members (1) The need to enhance cooperative efforts by operating INMARSAT CES have already arranged countries in the South Pacifi c and adjacent through their CES to accept ships’ meteorological areas affected by tropical cyclones in effectively and oceanographic reports that are of general value carrying out their roles in coordinated arrange- to all Members of WMO, ments for preparing and issuing meteorological BEING CONCERNED, however, that problems continue forecasts and warnings of all tropical cyclones to be related to the timely redistribution to the coun- affecting the area, tries closest to their geographical origin of reports (2) That, to achieve this aim, it is essential to have an collected through INMARSAT, agreed tropical cyclone operational plan for the URGES: South Pacifi c and the South-East Indian Ocean (1) Members concerned to make every effort to ensure which describes the coordinated arrangements the timely redistribution of reports collected and defi nes the observing, forecasting and warn- through INMARSAT to countries in the areas of ing responsibilities of all cooperating countries, the geographical origins of those reports; DECIDES to adopt the Tropical Cycone Operational (2) All Members in the Region operating VOS Plan for the South Pacific and South-East Indian equipped with INMARSAT-C to make every Ocean published in Tropical Cyclone Programme effort for these ships to be supplied with the Report No. TCP-24 (WMO/TD-No. 292) — Tropical new software package for the compilation Cyclone Operational Plan for the South Pacific and and transmission of meteorological reports South-East Indian Ocean; through INMARSAT-C, to ensure the maxi- AUTHORIZES the president of RA V to approve, on mum effi ciency and cost-effectiveness of such behalf of the Association, amendments to this Tropical an operation; Cyclone Operational Plan, as recommended by the RA V REQUESTS the Secretary-General to assist Members in Tropical Cyclone Committee for the South Pacific; the implementation of this resolution. REQUESTS the Secretary-General to inform all Members and island States and Territories concerned of any amendments to, and updating of, the Resolution 4 (XII-RA V) Operational Plan. REGIONAL INSTRUMENT CENTRES (RICs) REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), NOTING: Resolution 10 (XI-RA V) (1) The Abridged Final Report with Resolutions of the USE OF INMARSAT FOR THE COLLECTION Eleventh Session of Regional Association V (South- OF SHIPS’ METEOROLOGICAL AND OCEANO- West Pacifi c) (WMO-No. 811), GRAPHIC REPORTS (2) The sixth edition of the Guide to Meteorological REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), Instruments and Methods of Observation NOTING: (WMO-No. 8), (1) Resolution 19 (Cg-XI) — The collection and CONSIDERING: dissemination of marine meteorological and (1) The need for regular calibration and maintenance oceanographic information using INMARSAT, of meteorological instruments to meet the 76 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
increasing needs for high quality meteorological (e) To provide advice to Members of RA V on instru- and hydrological data, ment performance and availability of relevant (2) The requirements of Members in the Region for guidance material; standardization of meteorological instruments, (f) To keep a library of books and periodicals on (3) The need for international instrument inter- meteorology and methods of measurement in comparisons and evaluations, meteorology, that can be referred to on request NOTING with appreciation the offers made by from Members of RA V; Australia and the Philippines to provide facilities to (g) To cooperate with other RICs to provide better the NICs to perform the function of RICs, links to international standards; DESIGNATES the NIC Manila, Philippines as an RIC (h) To inform Members of RA V and WMO when for RA V with the following functions: relevant training courses, seminars and sympo- (a) To keep a set of meteorological standard instru- sia on meteorological metrology are to be ments linked with recognized international or conducted; national standards and to log their performance (i) To include the operations of the RA V Radiation and elements of comparison; Centre (also based in the Australian Bureau of (b) To assist Members of the Region in calibrating Meteorology) in its activities; their national standard meteorological instru- REQUESTS the Secretary-General to include the content ments or in comparing them with standard of this resolution in the Manual on the Global Observing instruments and to keep the Members of the System (WMO-No. 544), Volume II, Regional Aspects, Region and the WMO Secretariat informed on Region V (South-West Pacific). the availability of standard instruments; (c) To be prepared to certify the instruments’ conformity with the standards with reference to Resolution 7 (XII-RA V) WMO recommendations; CLIMATE CHANGE IN THE SOUTH-WEST (d) To organize instrument evaluations and compar- PACIFIC isons, following standard methods; REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), (e) To advise Members of the Region concerned on NOTING: their enquiries regarding instrument perform- (1) Article 10 of the Kyoto Protocol to the United ance and on the availability of relevant guidance Nations Framework Convention on Climate material; Change, (f) To assist WMO in organizing regional sympo- (2) The plans of the WMO-UNEP Intergovernmental sia, seminars or workshops on the maintenance, Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) for the prepa- calibration and comparison of meteorological ration of its Third Assessment Report, instruments by providing laboratory and fi eld (3) The continuing high level of public concern installations, as well as to provide assistance within the Region about the possible impacts with regard to demonstration equipment and of climate change, expert advice; (4) The uncertainty about the likely nature and (g) To keep a library of books and periodicals on magnitude of human-induced climate change instrument theory and practices; in the Region, (h) To cooperate with other RICs to provide stand- (5) The vital role of the NMSs of the Region in ardization of meteorological instruments; providing scientifi c data and advice to their DESIGNATES also the Australian RIC in Melbourne governments on climate matters, with the following functions: (6) Its own responsibility, under Article 18 of (a) To keep a set of meteorological standard the WMO Convention, for coordination of instruments with traceability to recognized meteorological (including climatological) and international or national standards and to related activities in the Region, document their performance and elements of ADOPTS the summary statement entitled Climate comparison; Change in the South-West Pacific as set down in the (b) To assist Members of Region V to calibrate those annex to this resolution; national standards meteorological instruments REQUESTS the president of the Association and the or compare them with the standard instru- Secretary-General to bring the statement to the ments maintained by the RIC, and to keep the attention of all concerned. Members of RA V and the WMO Secretariat informed on the available standard instruments and their traceability; Annex to Resolution 7 (XII-RA V) (c) To provide documentation, when required by CLIMATE CHANGE IN THE SOUTH-WEST WMO, to certify traceability of all standard PACIFIC instruments used for RIC functions; At its twelfth session in Bali, Indonesia (September (d) To organize instrument evaluations and compar- 1998), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) isons based on proven methodologies; Regional Association for the South-West Pacifi c RESOLUTIONS 77
(RA V) reviewed the substantial recent global and (i) There are still signifi cant scientifi c uncertain- regional action in connection with possible human- ties about the operation of the climate system, induced climate change. It noted that, despite which add uncertainty to predictions of considerable progress in the scientifi c study of possi- climate variability and change. Members were ble climate change in the Region, there are great encouraged to participate in the planning and uncertainties about the nature and likely magnitude implementation of research programmes, such of future change and only modest progress has been as CLIVAR, ensuring that they address global made in establishing or upgrading the meteorologi- and regional processes important to South-West cal and related observing systems needed to detect Pacifi c countries. and monitor climate variability and change in the Region. Resolution 13 (XIII-RA V) Conscious of its role as the established SUPPORT FOR JCOMM intergovernmental body responsible for coordina- REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), tion of meteorological (including climatological) and NOTING: related activities in the Region, the Association iden- (1) Resolution 14 (Cg-XIII) — Joint WMO/IOC tifi ed a number of important initiatives for priority Technical Commission for Oceanography and attention. In particular, the Association agreed that: Marine Meteorology (JCOMM), (a) Those Members with the capability to do so (2) IOC Assembly Resolution XX-12 — The should accelerate their efforts to develop scien- Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for tifi cally-sound regional assessments of future Oceanography and Marine Meteorology climate change for the South-West Pacifi c for a (J-COMM), range of greenhouse gas emission scenarios; (3) The Abridged Final Report with Resolutions and (b) Necessary support should be sought to enable Recommendations of the First Session of JCOMM scientists from the developing countries in the (WMO-No. 931), Region to participate fully in the scientifi c studies CONSIDERING that oceanographic and marine mete- in order to ensure that expert advice is available to orological observations not only make a significant their governments on the nature, scientifi c basis contribution to operational meteorology and the and reliability of the projections of possible future provision of marine services, but also are essential to change; global climate studies generally, (c) Members should be encouraged to participate RECOGNIZING: as fully as possible in the work of the IPCC, (1) That JCOMM is now the appropriate and sole including especially the preparation of its Third WMO body for the international coordination and Assessment Report; regulation of a global operational ocean observ- (d) The attention of all Members should be drawn to ing, data management and services system, the fundamental role of the WWW and its RBSN (2) That some Members of the Association are actively as the observational foundation for climate moni- involved in the deployment and maintenance of toring in the Region and to the critical need for a variety of ocean observation facilities, for both upgrading both the coverage and the perform- operational and research purposes, ance standards of these networks, in line with (3) That Members of the Association are also the interest of Article 10 of the Kyoto Protocol; increasingly being required to provide (e) Close coordination should be maintained at coordinated meteorological and oceanographic both the national and regional levels between services for a large variety of marine user groups, the WWW networks and the related observa- (4) That the Global Telecommunication System tional initiatives such as GCOS; (GTS) will continue to be essential for the (f) The existing routine climate monitoring systems operational collection and exchange of many for the Region should be upgraded in respect of types of ocean data, both their content and timeliness, and training RECOGNIZING FURTHER that a substantial increase opportunities should be provided in their use in the amount of ocean data available operationally for staff from the NMHSs of Members of the is needed to satisfy the requirements of operational developing countries in the Region; meteorology, oceanographic services and research (g) Members should be encouraged to cooperate in and global climate studies for such data, annual assessments of observed climate varia- URGES Members: tions and trends in the Region; (1) To continue and, where possible, expand their (h) In undertaking studies of the scope for adap- existing operational ocean observing system tation to future climate change in the Region, facilities and activities, as contributions to the Members and international organizations World Weather Watch (WWW), Global Climate should pay greater attention to the very large Observing System (GCOS) and Global Ocean natural variability of the climate of the South- Observing System (GOOS) and with interna- West Pacifi c and, in particular, to the role of tional coordination effected through JCOMM; the various existing programmes on tropi- (2) To participate actively in the planning and cal cyclone, fl ood and other national disaster implementation of these systems and in the mitigation; work of JCOMM; 78 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
(3) To coordinate with appropriate national ocea- (2) That urgent and essential support has to nographic agencies and institutions to ensure be provided for the implementation of the the long-term operational maintenance of World Weather Watch (WWW) and the other oceanographic observing systems; WMO Scientifi c and Technical Programmes (4) To coordinate with appropriate national to Member and non-Member Island States in oceanographic agencies and institutions in the Region, developing oceanographic data management CONSIDERING the importance of maintaining the capabilities and oceanographic services; basic synoptic and climatological networks in the (5) To enhance two-way ship-to-shore telecommu- Region for the benefit of all WMO Programmes, nication arrangements for oceanographic data RECOMMENDS that support directed to the Region and products, in particular through the greater under the WMO Voluntary Cooperation Programme use of satellite-based telecommunications facil- (VCP) should be further enhanced; ities such as the International Maritime Satellite URGES: System (INMARSAT) and Argos systems; (1) Members of the Association to take more REQUESTS the Secretary-General to take any action active roles in and contribute to the VCP, to considered necessary, and within the available the maximum extent possible, in support budgetary resources, to assist Members to participate of funds, equipment and services, including in the development and maintenance of JCOMM. fellowships; (2) Members of the Association to identify their Resolution 16 (XIII-RA V) requirements and to seek, as appropriate, WMO VOLUNTARY COOPERATION support through the WMO VCP; PROGRAMME REQUESTS the Secretary-General of WMO to make REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC), an urgent appeal to potential donors (including NOTING: donors outside the Region) to provide support (1) Resolution 18 (Cg-XIII) — The WMO Voluntary specifically for the Region, under the VCP or Cooperation Programme, otherwise. ANNEXES
ANNEX I (XIV-RA V) Annex to paragraph 4.1.7 of the general summary
SPECIFIC WG-PIW TASKS
To assist in developing and updating strategic and 2. To develop an action plan for improving early action plans for the development of meteorology in warning system capabilities in the Region, and to Region V, and to link the Regional action plan devel- ensure that the plan addresses: oped for the World Weather Watch (WWW) to the (a) Enhancement of communications systems (the strategic action plans of Region V. Global Telecommunication System — GTS) and data management, in particular in support of early Integrated Observing Systems (IOS) warning systems, including through contributing To develop a regional action plan for the develop- to a workshop for the Region involving NMHSs ment of the Global Observing System (GOS) which and other stakeholders (4534 éIK5AK5 NX); addresses Member needs and priorities, and which is (b) Repairing/upgrading the Emergency Managers integrated into the WMO plan for integrated observa- Weather Information Network (EMWIN) where tions, and to ensure that the plan addresses: required in NMHSs and assisting emergency (a) Enhanced access to, and utilization of, a broader management organizations and other non- range of satellite data, through both direct recep- governmental organizations (NGOs) using tion and advanced dissemination mechanisms EMWIN to upgrade to the new system under the such as SATAID and provision of appropriate new GOES satellites (4534 éIK5AK5 NX). training (4534 éIK5AK5N X); 3. To develop an action plan for improving commu- (b) Investigation of low-cost lightning detection nication of critical data and products within the systems as a complementary observing tool, with Region, and to ensure that the plan addesses: particular benefi ts for countries without weather (a) Integration of radio and Internet (RANET), high watch radar (4534 éIK5AK5N X); frequency e-mail and EMWIN into the Regional (c) Establishment of an affordable Aircraft Meteorological Telecommunication Network Meteorological Data Relay (AMDAR) programme (RMTN) (4534 éIK5AK5 NX); for the Region to extend the coverage of aircraft (b) Continued development of RANET in provid- reports over the region. ing a sustainable means of communicating with isolated and remote communities and in extend- Information Systems and Services (ISS) ing the capabilities of the GTS (4534 éIK5AK5 NX); 1. To develop a regional action plan for the WMO (c) Inclusion of RANET content in the low-rate infor- Information System (WIS) which addresses Member mation transmission (LRIT) broadcast from the needs and priorities, and which is integrated into the GOES satellites (coverage of the eastern part of WMO WIS plan, and to ensure that the plan addresses: the Pacifi c) (4534 éIK5AK5 NX); (a) Participation in the RA II/RA V Virtual Private (d) Facilitating the migration to LRIT for MT-SAT Network (VPN) pilot project, with special empha- and GOES reception in relevant centres (4534 é sis on facilitating the inclusion of small island IK5AK5 NX). developing States (SIDS) (4534 éIK5AK5N X); 4. To develop and implement a regional action plan (b) Implementation of WIS in the Region, including for migration to table-driven code forms, including a identifi cation of potential Global Information national pilot project to serve as a pathfi nder for the System Centres (GISCs) and Data Collection or rest of the Region (4534 éIK5AK5 NX). Production Centres (DCPCs) (4534 éIK5AK5N X); (c) Capability-building necessary for the imple- Data-processing and Forecasting System mentation of WIS and the development of (DPFS) information and communication technology 1. To develop a regional action plan for the tropi- skills in the Region (4534 éIK5AK5N X); cal cyclone demonstration project in its investigation (d) Participation of relevant non-National of the application of advanced numerical weather Meteorological and Hydrological Service (NMHS) prediction (NWP) output in an end-to-end warning agencies/users of the Region (including appropri- system (4534 éIK5AK5 NX). ate regional organizations such as the Secretariat 2. To develop an action plan to improve the exploi- of the Pacifi c Regional Environment Programme tation of NWP within the Region, and to ensure that (SPREP) and the South Pacifi c Applied Geoscience the plan addresses: Commission (SOPAC) in the development and (a) Improvement in the capacities of NMHSs in implementation of WIS. the Region to utilize the expanding array of 80 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
well-supported information available for seasonal to reviewing relevant documentation of Regional to inter-annual prediction, and a greater emphasis components of the technical documentation on the application of the broad-scale products to (4534 éIK5AK5 NX). meet requirements in individual countries in the 2. To contribute to the development of regional and Region (4534 éIK5AK5N X); national action plans for involvement in THORPEX (b) Support for the extension of high-resolution (and the International Polar Year) to ensure that there regional and subregional NWP initiatives. will be applications and benefi ts for the Region. 3. To provide feedback to Global Producing Centres 3. In coordination with the Working Group on on the performance of, and Regional needs for, short-, Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, to develop medium- and long-range predictions, including NWP a Regional action plan for disaster prevention and ensemble prediction system products. mitigation, and to ensure that the plan addresses: 4. To coordinate continued development of envi- (a) Regional application of the WMO Natural Disaster ronmental emergency response and atmospheric Prevention and Mitigation Programme and the transport capabilities and arrangements in the frame- International Strategy for Disaster Reduction work of multi-hazard, multi-purpose early warning (ISDR) in relation to WWW support in the Region systems. with a view to enhancing disaster preparedness and effectiveness of warnings in the Region; Public Weather Services (PWS) (b) Within the current multi-hazard approach to To develop an action plan for PWS improvement in early warnings and emergency management, Region V, and to ensure that the plan addresses: to strengthen links with appropriate regional (a) Assessment and publicizing of socio-economic organizations (such as SPREP, SOPAC); benefi ts of meteorological services, including in (c) Improvement of relations and coordination disaster mitigation (4534 éIK5AK5N X); between NMHSs, disaster coordinators, the (b) Provision of information on low-cost options for media, the private sector and NGOs; providing improved television weather presenta- (d) Strengthening of links with and support for tions (4534 éIK5AK5N X); national emergency management organiza- (c) Development of guidance material and other tions in a multi-hazard approach to disaster assistance to Members in developing their own management; national PWS, including for improving the (e) Provision of PWS to vulnerable and at risk presentation of warnings and forecasts through communities and special populations (such as various media in the Region (4534 éIK5AK5N X); tourists in some cases), and taking into account (d) Guidance on national verifi cation of public language and dialect variations. forecasts and monitoring the utility of such 4. To encourage the application of the WMO least information; developed country and SIDS strategies in upgrading (e) Greater utilization of NWP information to assist WWW implementation in the relevant countries in in the provision of forecast and warning services, the Region. including the application of ensemble prediction 5. To contribute to the coordination of the planning system output as a means to convey uncertainty and development of the Global Earth Observation in forecasts. System of Systems (GEOSS) with the WWW systems. 6. To develop and promote measures that link Cross-cutting atctivities efforts to strengthen NMHSs and regional coopera- 1. To contribute to the development of the Quality tion activities to direct socio-economic benefi ts in Management Framework, with particular attention each country/State in the Region. ANNEXES 81
ANNEX II (XIV-RA V) Annex to paragraph 4.3.1 of the general summary — Part I
REGIONAL METEOROLOGICAL TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK PLAN IN RA V Cook Islands c) ) -1 Point-to-point circuits implementation (transmission speed in kbit s (transmission speed in kbit implementation Point-to-point circuits Regional Meteorological Telecommunication Network plan for Region V (South-West Pacifi V (South-West Network plan for Region Telecommunication Regional Meteorological Not operational Centre in other Region
Regional Meteorological Telecommunication Network for Region V (South-West Pacifi Implementation of telecommunication systems via satellite and radio broadcasts
c)
REGIONAL METEOROLOGICAL TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK PL NETWORK TELECOMMUNICATION METEOROLOGICAL REGIONAL AN IN RA V RA IN AN
paragra to Annex of the gene the of 4.3.1 ph ral summary — Par — summary ral t II t
ANNEX II (XIV-RA V) (XIV-RA II ANNEX
82 ABRIDGED FI ABRIDGED 82 NAL REPOR NAL T OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REG OF SESSION FOURTEENTH THE OF T IONAL ASSO IONAL CIATION V V CIATION ANNEXES 83
ANNEX II (XIV-RA V) Annex to paragraph 4.3.1 of the general summary — Part III
REGIONAL METEOROLOGICAL TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK PLAN IN RA V high frequency radio e-mail diagram incorporating c EMWIN/RANET network Pacifi 84 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
ANNEX III (XIV-RA V)) Annex to paragraph 15.4.3 of the general summary
EXECUTIVE COUNCIL STATEMENT ON THE ROLE AND OPERATION OF NATIONAL METEOROLOGICAL AND HYDROLOGICAL SERVICES (FOR DECISION MAKERS)
Key social and economic drivers 5. NMHSs constitute the single authoritative 1. Governments are striving to improve the voice on weather warnings in their respective coun- well-being of their citizens. Population growth, reduc- tries, and in many they are also responsible for climate, ing poverty, water security, food security, increasing air quality, seismic and tsunami warnings. To reduce prosperity, and improving public health, safety and and mitigate disasters requires well prepared NMHSs security are key drivers. To deal with these issues, as well as governments and populations to take appro- governments have to develop and implement effec- priate action in response to warnings. NMHSs, within tive policy, and promote fundamental tenets of societal the framework of WMO, are working to help govern- and environmental governance. However, as regards ments improve decision-making to enable populations the environment, it is common knowledge that we to adapt to climate change, mitigate natural hazards are challenged by our natural environment, made and sustain development. By helping governments worse by changes in the climate, which threatens the and the people to avert potential disasters, NMHSs are sustainable development of human societies through a fundamental component of the crisis management extreme weather events causing disasters, reduced food infrastructure of countries in their nation-building security, reduced availability of uncontaminated fresh- endeavours and, indeed, a contributor to sustain- water, and the rise and spread of diseases. This is further able development, particularly the poverty alleviation compounded by growing urbanization and the expan- effort. NMHSs are working together to implement the sion of human habitation into previously unoccupied WMO Multi-hazard Prevention Strategy, which aims to places, such as arid zones, mountain slopes, fl ood plains reduce by 50 per cent over the decade 2010-2019 the and the sea’s edge. These are exposing populations to number of fatalities caused by meteorological-, hydro- air and waterborne diseases, heat stress, drought, land- logical- and climate-related natural disasters compared slides, fl oods, storm surges and tsunamis. with the 10-year average fatalities of 1995-2004. 2. The safety of life and protection of property 6. NMHSs are continuously monitoring the envi- is important for all countries but especially for the ronment through observations of the Earth system sustainability of emerging economies. These countries and predicting changes in this system. They provide are highly vulnerable to natural disasters, which can governments with timely and precise warnings of wipe out 10 to 15 per cent of a developing nation’s most potential natural hazards and contribute essen- gross domestic product on average. Only with a clear tial environmental information and services for urban understanding of the potential threats, advanced planning, sustainable energy development, access to warning, and adequate disaster reduction and mitiga- freshwater, and food production. tion efforts can we properly protect our societies. 7. Cooperation between various organizations 3. These are issues that must be dealt with if is essential to provide governments with these serv- the global community is to attain the targets set ices. Partnerships between NMHSs and academia, through the 2000 Millennium Declaration, which are government departments, international and non- also highlighted by the 2002 Johannesburg Plan of governmental organizations, and where appropriate Implementation of the World Summit on Sustainable and possible, the private sector, help society make Development. better decisions based on more complete and accurate weather, water and climate information. These part- The role of National Meteorological and nerships provide better data coverage and information Hydrological Services processing, higher resolution models, and more precise 4. As has been the case since the beginning of the and useful specialized products for societal benefi ts, modern era of societal and environmental management, including opportunities to provide better support to knowledge of weather and climate is key to all aspects governments and other decision makers regarding of human endeavours. It is within this framework that safety, economy, and security. NMHSs are encouraging NMHSs in various countries have been well positioned to these partnerships by adopting open and unrestricted identify and deal with a wide range of weather, climate data policies which make their information easy to and water related issues that affect human life and socio- access in real time, in useful forms, and at low cost. economic development. For example, with regard to natural hazards, NMHSs have been tasked to sensitize Future requirements the population to their impacts, and to provide warnings 8. In the year 2000, through the internationally- of individual events, to save lives, to sustain productivity, agreed development goals, including those contained and to reduce damage to property. within the Millennium Declaration, the international ANNEXES 85 community set forth specifi c targets to be reached by 10. It is essential that societies be prepared to act 2015. To ensure that these goals are met, it is essential appropriately in response to warnings. Education and that governments take advantage of the myriad advances training is paramount for improvement of prepared- in science and technology provided by NMHSs and their ness. Early warning systems for natural hazards work partners, that include the provision of multi-hazard only if governments and their public know how to warnings and related services, 24 hours a day, seven days respond. Information must be easy to understand a week for 365 days a year, which when properly applied and use. can provide societies with the underpinning information 11. Climate change requires societies to under- to reduce and mitigate natural disasters. International stand and assess impacts and to develop the necessary cooperation is essential, both between countries and adaptation strategies. By providing fundamental within the larger United Nations framework. knowledge of the climate system and predictions 9. Access to good communication ensures based on climate models, NMHSs can help societies that information is available wherever it is needed. transform. Governments must recognize the importance of contin- 12. To be completely effective, NMHSs and their uous monitoring of the environment and the ability of international network, coordinated through the their NMHSs to provide timely and accurate information WMO, must be recognized as critical partners in socie- to support critical decisions. Governments should sustain ties’ goal to reduce poverty and increase the prosperity of the NMHSs and their modernization and development. the world’s citizens. APPENDIX A
LIST OF PERSONS ATTENDING THE SESSION
A. OFFICERS OF THE SESSION Member Name Capacity A. Ngari (Cook Islands) Acting president R. Prasad (Fiji) Vice-president Micronesia, D. Aranug Principal delegate Federated States of B. REPRESENTATIVES OF WMO MEMBERS New Caledonia N. Bériot Principal delegate Member Name Capacity New Zealand J. Lumsden Principal delegate Australia G.B. Love Principal delegate R. Stainer Alternate G.R. Foley Alternate (part-time) J. Salinger Delegate V.K. Tsui Alternate (part-time) T.L. Hart Delegate Niue S. Pulehetoa Principal delegate J.T. Davidson Delegate M.J. Coughlan Delegate Papua New J. Gomoga Principal delegate J. Church Delegate Guinea P. Dexter Delegate B.J. Stewart Delegate Philippines P.D. Nilo Principal delegate
Brunei M.H. Aji Principal delegate Samoa M.A. Titimaea Principal delegate Darussalam H.Z.H. Pungut Alternate S.S. Tuiafi so Delegate
Cook Islands A. Ngari Principal delegate Singapore Foong Chee Leong Principal delegate Wong Chin Ling Delegate Fiji R. Prasad Principal delegate (Ms) A. Waqaicelua Delegate Tonga O. Fa’anunu Principal delegate French Y. Grégoris Principal delegate Polynesia United Kingdom M. Gray Principal delegate of Great Britain B. Garnier-Schofi eld Alternate Indonesia Sri W.B. Harijono Principal delegate and (Ms) (Ms) Northern Ireland H. Harjanto Delegate M.A. Ratag Delegate United States J. J. Kelly, Jr. Principal delegate J. Achyar Delegate of America J.C. Weyman Alternate E.A. Djajadiredja Delegate R.O. Masters Delegate J. Loebis Delegate H. Diamond Delegate W. Hadi Delegate D.S. Green Delegate Sunarjo Delegate K. Turner (Ms) Delegate A.B. Ibrahim Delegate A. Karsidi Delegate Vanuatu D. Gibson Delegate L.K. Wardhani (Ms) Delegate M. Husni Delegate C. OTHER PARTICIPANTS Kiribati M. Tibiriano Delegate S. Ready Malaysia Yap Kok Seng Principal delegate J. Fenwick APPENDIX A 87
D. INVITED EXPERTS P. Taalas Director, Regional and Technical J.A. Karhu Cooperation Activities for W. Kusch Development Department
R.A. de Guzman Director, Strategic Planning Offi ce E. LECTURERS G. Love B. Nyenzi Director, World Climate Programme P.D. Nilo Department J. McBride M.A. Ratag J. Hayes Director, World Weather Watch M.A. Titimaea Department D. Wratt G. Kortchev Director, Applications Programme Department F. REPRESENTATIVES OF NON-WMO MEMBERS D. Schiessl Director, Cross-cutting Coordination Marshall Islands R. White Observer T. Toya Regional Director for Asia and the Tuvalu T. Katea Observer South-West Pacifi c, Regional and Technical Cooperation Activities for Timor-Leste F.C. Da Cruz Observer Development Department T.T.T. Fernandes Moniz Observer K. Shida Programme Manager, Regional and Technical Cooperation Activities for Development Department G. REPRESENTATIVES OF INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS H.K. Taiki Programme Offi cer, Subregional Offi ce for the South-West Pacifi c, Organization Name Regional and Technical Cooperation Activities for Development International Civil Aviation D.H. Ivanov Department Organization (ICAO) M. Tawfi k Chief, Hydrology Division, Secretariat of the Pacifi c Regional D. Solofa Hydrology and Water Resources Environment Programme (SPREP) Department
Association of Hydro- R. Wright C. Wang Senior External Relations Offi cer, Meteorological Equipment Cabinet and External Relations Offi ce Industry (HMEI) M. Peeters Chief, Conference Services, Conferences, Printing and H. WMO SECRETARIAT Distribution Department
M. Jarraud Secretary-General J.-G. Park Seconded Expert, Regional and Technical Cooperation Activities for Hong Yan Deputy Secretary-General Development Department APPENDIX B
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
6LTP Sixth WMO Long-term Plan
AeMP Aeronautical Meteorology Programme AgMP Agricultural Meteorology Programme AMDAR Aircraft Meteorological Data Relay AOPC Atmospheric Observation Panel for Climate APCC APEC Climate Center APEC Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation APFM Associated Programme on Flood Management APN Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research AREP Atmospheric Research and Environment Programme ASAP Automated Shipboard Aerological Programme ASEAN Association of South-East Asian Nations ASMC ASEAN Specialized Meteorological Centre AusAID Australian Agency for International Development AWG Advisory Working Group AWS Automatic Weather Station
BOM Australian Bureau of Meteorology
CAeM Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology CAgM Commission for Agricultural Meteorology CAL Computer-aided Learning CAS Commission for Atmospheric Sciences CBD Convention on Biological Diversity CBS Commission for Basic Systems CCl Commission for Climatology CHy Commission for Hydrology CIMO Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation CLIPS Climate Information and Prediction Services CLIVAR Climate Variability and Predictability COMET Cooperative Program for Operational Meteorology, Education and Training COP Conference of the Parties COPES Coordinated Observation and Prediction of the Earth System CPC Climate Prediction Center (NOAA)
DCPC Data Collection or Production Centre DPFS Data-processing and Forecasting System DPM Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation DWD Deutscher Wetterdienst
EC Executive Council ECMWF European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts EMEP Cooperative Programme for Monitoring and Evaluation of the Long-range Transmission of Air Pollutants in Europe EMWIN Emergency Managers Weather Information Network ENSO El Niño/Southern Oscillation EPS Ensemble Prediction System ERA Emergency Response Activities ESCAP Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific ETRP Education and Training Programme EUMETNET European Meteorological Services Network EUMETSAT European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites EUMETCAL European Meteorological Computer Assisted Learning (programme) APPENDIX B 89
FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
GAW Global Atmosphere Watch GAWSIS GAW Station Information System GAWTEC GAW Training and Education Centre GCOS Global Climate Observing System GDPFS Global Data-processing and Forecasting System GDSIDB Global Digital Sea Ice Data Bank GEO Group on Earth Observations GEOSS Global Earth Observation System of Systems GEWEX Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment (within WCRP) GIS Geographical Information System GISC Global Information System Centre GLOSS Global Sea-level Observing System GMDSS Global Maritime Distress and Safety System GOES Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite GOOS Global Ocean Observing System GOS Global Observing System GPC Global Producing Centre GSN GCOS Surface Network GTS Global Telecommunication System GTSPP Global Temperature-Salinity Profile Program GUAN GCOS Upper-Air Network
HF High Frequency HOMS Hydrological Operational Multipurpose System hPa Hectopascal HRM HOMS Reference Manual HWRP Hydrology and Water Resources Programme HYCOS Hydrological Cycle Observing System
ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization ICG Intercommission Coordination Group ICG/PTWS Intergovernmental Coordination Group for the Pacific Tsunami Warning System ICSC CAS International Core Steering Committee ICU Island Climate Update IDNDR International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction IFM Integrated Flood Management IGBP International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme IGOS Integrated Global Observing Strategy IGRAC International Groundwater Resources Assessment Centre IMOP Instruments and Methods of Observation Programme IOC Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (UNESCO) IOC-WESTPAC IOC Sub-Commission for the Western Pacific IOS Integrated Observing Systems IPA Information and Public Affairs (WMO) IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change IPO International Programme Office (THORPEX) IRI International Research Institute for Climate and Society ISCS International Satellite Communication System ISDR International Strategy for Disaster Reduction ISS Information Systems and Services ITU International Telecommunication Union IWET International Workshop on Extra-tropical Transition IWM International Workshop on Monsoons IWRM Integrated Water Resources Management IWTC International Workshop on Tropical Cyclones
JCOMM Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology JMA Japan Meteorological Agency 90 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE FOURTEENTH SESSION OF REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V
LDC Least Developed Country LRF Long-range Forecasts LRIT Low-rate Information Transmission LTP Long-term Plan
MMOP Marine Meteorology and Oceanography Programme MOU Memorandum of Understanding MPERSS Marine Pollution Emergency Response Support System MTN Main Telecommunication Network
NCDC National Climatic Data Center (United States) NCEP National Centers for Environmental Prediction NHS National Hydrological Service NIWA National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research NMC National Meteorological Centre NMHS National Meteorological and Hydrological Service NMS National Meteorological or Hydrometeorological Service NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NWP Numerical Weather Prediction NZAid New Zealand Agency for International Development
OIS Operational Information Service OPACHE Open Panels of CHy Experts OPAG Open Programme Area Group
PAGASA Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration PEAC Pacific ENSO Applications Center PI-CPP Pacific Islands Climate Prediction Project PI-GCOS Pacific Islands GCOS PI-GOOS Pacific Islands GOOS PWS Public Weather Services PWSP Public Weather Services Programme
QMF Quality Management Framework
R&D Research and Development RA Regional Association RANET Radio and Internet RBCN Regional Basic Climatological Network RBSN Regional Basic Synoptic Network RCC Regional Climate Centre RCD Regional and Technical Cooperation Activities for Development Department RIC Regional Instrument Centre RMTC Regional Meteorological Training Centre RMTN Regional Meteorological Telecommunication Network RSMC Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre RTH Regional Telecommunication Hub
SBSTA Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice SCHOTI Standing Conference of the Heads of Training Institutions of National Meteorological Services SDSIDS Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States SEACAMP South-East Asian Centre for Atmospheric and Marine Prediction SIDS Small Island Developing States SMM Special MTN Monitoring SOPAC South Pacific Applied Geoscience Commission SOOP Ship-of-Opportunity Programme SPARC Stratospheric Processes and their Role in Climate SPREP Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme SWIC Severe Weather Information Centre APPENDIX B 91
TAC Traditional Alphanumeric Codes TCC Tropical Cyclone Committee TCDC Technical Cooperation among Developing Countries TCOP Technical Cooperation Programme TCP Tropical Cyclone Programme TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol TDCF Table-driven Code Forms THORPEX Observing System Research and Predictability Experiment TMRP Tropical Meteorology Research Programme
UNCCD United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNEP United Nations Environment Programme UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change USAid United States Agency for International Development UTC Universal Time Coordinated UV Ultraviolet
VCP Voluntary Cooperation Programme VOS Voluntary Observing Ship VPN Virtual Private Network VSAT Very Small Aperture Terminal
WAFC World Area Forecast Centre WAFS World Area Forecast System WCASP World Climate Applications and Services Programme WCDMP World Climate Data and Monitoring Programme WCDR World Conference on Disaster Reduction WCIRP World Climate Impact Assessment and Response Strategies Programme WCP World Climate Programme WCRP World Climate Research Programme WDC World Data Centre WEFAX Weather Facsimile WG Working Group WGH Working Group on Hydrology WG-PIW Working Group on Planning and Implementation of the WWW WHYCOS World Hydrological Cycle Observing System WIS WMO Information System WMC World Meteorological Centre WMO World Meteorological Organization WRC World Radiocommunication Conference WSSD World Summit on Sustainable Development WWIS World Weather Information Service WWRP World Weather Research Programme WWW World Weather Watch www.wmo.int