UN weather agency convenes congress to expand early warning systems

The World Meteorological Organization has convened a special congress of its 193 member states to accelerate progress toward universal early warning system coverage by 2027. The four-day gathering, which includes ministerial-level participation, coincides with the UN weather agency's 75th anniversary and aims to advance the UN's Early Warnings for All initiative through enhanced global cooperation.

Global Collaboration and Essential Services

WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo emphasized the fundamental importance of international collaboration in meteorological services, noting that "weather, water and climate respect no national boundaries." She stressed that "no resilient development, food security, infrastructure planning or disaster risk reduction" can occur without the scientific services and infrastructure that the global meteorological community collectively provides through coordinated efforts.

Progress and Persistent Gaps

While the number of countries equipped with multi-hazard early warning systems has more than doubled over the past decade—increasing from 52 in 2015 to 108 in 2024—significant coverage deficiencies remain. According to WMO data, disaster mortality rates are six times higher in nations with limited early warning capabilities, highlighting the urgent need to address existing disparities, particularly in developing countries and regions affected by conflict.

Capacity Challenges and Future Goals

A newly released WMO report reveals that half of assessed countries currently possess only basic monitoring and forecasting capabilities. Despite expanded satellite usage and improved data-sharing networks, compliance with the Global Basic Observing Network remains particularly low in least developed countries and small island states. Secretary-General Saulo defined success not through documentation but through tangible outcomes, stating "The success of Early Warnings for All is not measured in reports or resolutions, but in lives saved and livelihoods protected."