The power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve the accuracy, accessibility and reach of weather forecasts and early warnings has been recognized by the World Meteorological Organization, which will seek to ensure that all countries can benefit from its life-saving potential.
An Extraordinary World Meteorological Congress issued a call to the public, private and academic sectors to collaborate on the development of AI and machine learning (ML) technologies to protect communities and economies from hazards like extreme heat and rainfall. It also paved the way for AI/ML to be anchored in WMO's global observation, data processing and forecasting backbone.
The resolutions were part of a wider package of measures approved by the Extraordinary Congress to accelerate progress towards WMO's top overriding priority - to ensure universal coverage of early warning systems through the achievement of Early Warnings for All by the end of 2027.
"Early warnings are not an abstraction. They give farmers the power to protect their crops and livestock. Enable families to evacuate safely. And protect entire communities from devastation," UN Secretary-General António Guterres told the Extraordinary Congress on 22 October in a ceremony which was one of the highlights of WMO's 75th anniversary activities.
"We know that disaster-related mortality is at least six times lower in countries with good early-warning systems in place. And just 24 hours' notice before a hazardous event can reduce damage by up to 30 per cent. Early-warning systems work. And they're finally getting the attention - and investment - they deserve," said the UN Secretary-General.
Mr. Guterres launched Early Warnings for All in 2022 with the goal of ensuring universal coverage by the end of 2027.
A high-level event opened by Mozambique President Daniel Francisco Chapo heard an urgent Call to Action from WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo to accelerate progress.
"Throughout this week, one thing has been made abundantly clear: the World Needs WMO," said Celeste Saulo in concluding remarks at the end of Congress .
"The visit of the United Nations Secretary-General, the participation of presidents and ministers and the global attention they attracted is a reminder that what we do matters. Now we must build on this momentum. This is the moment to turn visibility into impact. To translate recognition into investment. To make sure that our transformation continues - that WMO remains not only relevant, but more essential than ever," she said.
