Wmo 1218 PDF

Executive Council
Abridged Final Report of the Seventieth Session

Geneva
20–29 June 2018

WEATHER CLIMATE WATER
WMO-No. 1218
Executive Council
Abridged Final Report of the Seventieth Session
Geneva
20–29 June 2018

WEATHER CLIMATE WATER
WMO-No. 1218
WMO-No. 1218
© World Meteorological Organization, 2018
The right of publication in print, electronic and any other form and in any language is reserved by
WMO. Short extracts from WMO publications may be reproduced without authorization, provided that
the complete source is clearly indicated. Editorial correspondence and requests to publish, reproduce
or translate this publication in part or in whole should be addressed to:
Chairperson, Publications Board

World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
7 bis, avenue de la Paix Tel.: +41 (0) 22 730 84 03
P.O. Box 2300 Fax: +41 (0) 22 730 81 17
CH-1211 Geneva 2, Switzerland Email: [email protected]
ISBN 978-92-63-11218-7
NOTE
The designations employed in WMO publications and the presentation of material in this publication do not
imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of WMO concerning the legal status of any country,
territory, city or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.
The mention of specific companies or products does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by WMO
in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised.
This report contains the text as adopted by Plenary and has been issued without formal editing. Acronyms used in
this report may be found in METEOTERM, the WMO terminology database, at http://public.wmo.int/en/resources/
meteoterm.
CONTENTS
Page
GENERAL SUMMARY OF THE WORK OF THE SESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
APPENDIX 1. AGENDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
APPENDIX 2. RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

1 Consolidated approach to severe weather forecasting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2 WMO integrated approach to high-level climate-science-related policy processes. . . . . . . . 6
3 Integrated health services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4 Mid-term review of the Global Framework for Climate Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5 Recommendations of the Commission for Climatology at its seventeenth session. . . . . . . . 12
6 WMO recognition of long-term observing stations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
7 Amendment to Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume II – Meteorological Service
for International Air Navigation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
8 Scientific research and development in aeronautical meteorology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
9 Global and regional landscape of aeronautical meteorological service provision. . . . . . . . . 23
10 Report of the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine
Meteorology at its fifth session. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
11 Marine and coastal services support for WMO Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
12 Future of the Coastal Inundation Forecasting Demonstration Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
13 Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission/WMO/Permanent Commission for the
South Pacific collaboration on the investigations of El Niño . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
14 Recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology at its seventeenth
session. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
15 Amendments to Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume I, Part V. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
16 Guidance on ongoing hydrology and water resources initiatives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
17 Implementation Plan of WMO Hydrological Observing System phase II. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
18 Outcomes of the special dialogue on water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
19 Guide to the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1165). . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
20 Publication of the SATCOM Handbook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
21 Amendment to the Manual on the Global Telecommunication System (WMO-No. 386). . . . . 68
22 Amendment to the Manual on the WMO Information System (WMO-No. 1060). . . . . . . . . . 74
23 WMO Information System 2.0. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
24 Provision of high-resolution radiosonde data on the WMO Global Telecommunication System 76
25 Changes to ship masking schemes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
26 Amendments to the Manual on the Global Data-processing and Forecasting System
(WMO-No. 485). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
27 Terms of reference of the Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar and High-mountain
Observations, Research and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
28 WMO as an observer with the Arctic Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
29 Global Cryosphere Watch Surface Observing Network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
30 The 2018 review of the World Climate Research Programme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
31 Education and training. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
32 Review plan for the Basic Instructional Package for Meteorologists and the Basic
Instructional Package for Meteorological Technicians. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
33 Public–private engagement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
34 WMO Code of Conduct for officers of the Organization and members of the Executive
Council including its committees and for delegates at constituent body meetings. . . . . . . . 115
iv ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE SEVENTIETH SESSION OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
Page
35 WMO Executive Council structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

36 WMO Constituent Bodies Reform Transition Plan and Communication Strategy . . . . . . . . . 122
37 Financial statements of WMO for the year 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
38 Amendments to the staff regulations and rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
39 Review of previous resolutions and decisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
APPENDIX 3. DECISIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

1 Organization of the session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
2 Consideration of the reports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
3 Further implementation of the WMO Disaster Risk Reduction Roadmap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
4 Development of the Global Multi-hazard Alert System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
5 Support to the United Nations and humanitarian agencies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
6 Implementation of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
7 Integrated urban services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
8 IG3IS Science Implementation Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
9 Promoting the use and interpretation of climate change projections on regional and
national scales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
10 The Guide to General Service Delivery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
11 Concept paper on the development of common interfaces for service delivery. . . . . . . . . . 159
12 Symposium to collect Members experiences with Impact-based Forecast and Warning
Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
13 Review plan for the Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume III . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
14 Establishment of Regional WMO Integrated Global Observing System Centres. . . . . . . . . . 167
15 WMO Integrated Global Observing System station identifiers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
16 Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review Tool/Surface user interface. . . . . . . . . 176
17 Review plan for the Manual on the WMO Information System (WMO-No. 1060) and the
Guide to the WMO Information System (WMO-No. 1061). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176
18 WMO Information System 2.0 implementation approach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
19 Mechanisms for provision of shared services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
20 Pilot project for the exchange of information and metadata between Global Information
System Centres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
21 Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Ocean Data and Information System. . . . . 180
22 Ocean data standards and best practices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
23 Establishment of Data Acquisition Centres, Global Data Assembly Centres and Centres
for Marine Meteorological and Oceanographic Climate Data within the new Marine Climate
Data System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
24 Negotiation of satellite communications tariffs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
25 Emerging data issues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181
26 Impact assessment for observing system design and evolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
27 Sustaining the VLab technical support officer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
28 Education and outreach strategy regarding data buoy vandalism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
29 Management of the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine
Meteorology In Situ Observations Programme Support Centre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
30 Long-term ship observing stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
31 Reduction of the number of voluntary observing ship classifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
32 Voluntary observing ship metadata. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
33 Contribution to Global Ocean Observing System Strategy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
CONTENTS v
Page
34 Designation of new regional instrument centres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

35 Architecture for climate monitoring from space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
36 Development of the Space-based Weather and Climate Extremes Monitoring
Demonstration Project. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
37 Inter-programme Expert Team on Aircraft-based Observing Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
38 Development of a WMO position on critical satellite data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
39 Outcomes of the fourteenth session of the WMO Consultative Meeting on High-level Policy
on Satellite Matters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
40 Further development of a seamless Global Data-processing and Forecasting System
Implementation Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
41 Space weather linkage with the WMO Strategic Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
42 WMO High-mountain Summit 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
43 Proposal for the declaration of 2020 as the United Nations International Year of Snow and
Ice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
44 Memorandum of understanding between WMO and the Scientific Committee on Antarctic
Research and the International Arctic Science Committee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
45 Polar Space Task Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
46 Antarctic Observing Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
47 Polar Regional Climate Centres and Regional Climate Outlook Forums. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
48 WMO Global Campus initiative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
49 Governance of education and training. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
50 Nominal allocation of the Voluntary Cooperation Programme Trust Fund for 2018 . . . . . . . 210
51 Drafting Team on Preparation of a Policy Act on Public–Private Engagement for
consideration by the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
52 Adoption of working arrangements with the Association of Hydro-Meteorological
Equipment Industry and granting consultative status to the International Forum of
Meteorological Societies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
53 WMO engagement in global and regional private initiatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
54 Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
55 Implementation of WMO Gender Equality Policy and Action Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
56 Themes of World Meteorological Day for 2019 and 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
57 Reports of oversight bodies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
58 WMO-IOC Consultation Group on the Reform of JCOMM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
59 Preparations for the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
60 Plan for funding liability for after-service health insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
61 Revised salaries of ungraded officials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
62 Revised pensionable remuneration of ungraded officials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
63 International Meteorological Organization Prize and other awards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
64 Designation of acting members of the Executive Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
65 Review of subsidiary bodies and other bodies reporting to the Executive Council. . . . . . . . 231
66 Scientific lectures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
APPENDIX 4. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235

1 On the approach to cataloguing high-impact events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235
2 Climate data modernization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238
3 Strengthening WMO contributions to the provision of climate information and services in
support of policy- and decision- making. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
vi ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE SEVENTIETH SESSION OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
Page
4 WMO contributions to the provision of agricultural meteorology information and services. . 243
5 Global Basic Observing Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245
6 Vision for the WMO Integrated Global Observing System in 2040. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
7 The WMO Integrated Global Observing System in the WMO programmatic structure from
2020 onwards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
8 Joint WMO and Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Strategy for Marine
Meteorological and Oceanographic Data Management (2018–2021). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248
9 Establishment of collaboration between the International Air Transport Association and
WMO on the operation and development of the WMO Aircraft Meteorological Data Relay
Programme. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251
10 Members’ contribution to the actions specified in the Implementation Plan for the
Evolution of Global Observing Systems, in the context of the future WMO Integrated
Global Observing System Implementation Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
11 Use of the Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review tool/Surface for the
collection and recording of the WMO Integrated Global Observing System metadata . . . . . 255
12 Radio frequencies for meteorological and related environmental activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . 257
13 Tropical Pacific Observing System 2020. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 259
14 Ensuring adequate marine meteorological observations and data coverage for the safety
of navigation and the protection of life and property in coastal and offshore areas. . . . . . . 260
15 Seamless Global Data-processing and Forecasting System Implementation Plan. . . . . . . . 262
16 Key directions of the polar and high-mountain agenda for the next WMO financial period
(2020–2023). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 269
17 Preoperational phase of the Global Cryosphere Watch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 272
18 Future WMO research and supporting activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
19 WMO mandatory publications and distribution policy for the eighteenth financial period. . . 283
20 WMO Strategic Plan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
21 Maximum expenditure for the eighteenth financial period (2020–2023). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306
22 Officers of the Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 309
23 WMO Executive Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 310
24 Review of the WMO regional associations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 311
25 WMO technical commissions and other bodies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 315
26 Extraordinary session of the World Meteorological Congress in 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 334
27 Amendments to the Financial Regulations of the World Meteorological Organization. . . . . . 335
28 Enhanced framework for the WMO Technical Regulations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337
APPENDIX 5. LIST OF PARTICIPANTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 343
BACKGROUND INFORMATION SUPPORTING THE WORK OF THE SESSION (PART II TO

THE PRESENT REPORT)
GENERAL SUMMARY OF THE WORK OF THE SESSION
1. The WMO President, Mr D. Grimes, opened the seventieth session of the Council on
Wednesday, 20 June 2018 at 9.30 a.m. in the WMO headquarters building in Geneva. The
President welcomed the Council and other participants. He welcomed the Second Vice-
President, Professor Celeste Saulo, the first woman to be elected as a Vice-President,
serving also as acting First Vice-President following the departure of Mr Rob Varley. He also
acknowledged outgoing presidents of regional associations and technical commissions and
the newly elected presidents. The President highlighted the wide range of weather, climate
and water events shaping the actions of WMO and the key thematic areas that would be
covered during the session including the areas of strategic planning, governance review,
water and hydrology – with a dedicated dialogue, partnerships including with the private
sector, observations and data exchange, disaster risk reduction and service delivery, climate,
polar issues, capacity development and gender. The Secretary-General, Professor P. Taalas,
welcomed the Council to Geneva and called members’ attention to the main global challenges
faced by the Organization: climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction and water
resources management, noting that the demand for WMO expertise is growing and that, for
more effective delivery, a cross-cutting and holistic approach is favoured instead of a sectoral
one, as well as the need for data. The Secretary-General highlighted that the governance
review offers an opportunity for better addressing the needs of WMO Members, optimizing the
use of resources and infrastructure, fostering a wider engagement of experts in WMO activities,
adopting a holistic Earth system approach to services, observation and research, engaging the
private sector in a coordinated way in WMO activities and ensuring coherence between WMO
strategy and its implementation by constituent bodies, programmes and the Secretariat.
2. The agenda is provided in Appendix 1.
3. The session adopted 39 resolutions, given in Appendix 2, 66 decisions, given in Appendix 3,

and 28 recommendations, given in Appendix 4.
4. The list of participants is given in Appendix 5. Out of a total of 284 participants, 78 were

women, that is, 27%.
5. The Council agreed that the seventy-first session would be held at the WMO headquarters
from 17 to 19 June 2019 following the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress, which will be
held from 3 to 15 June 2019. The session of the Financial Advisory Committee (FINAC) will be
held the 1 and 2 June 2019.
6. The Council further tentatively scheduled the seventy-second session to be held at the
WMO headquarters from 10 to 19 June 2020, preceded by FINAC on the 8 and 9 June 2020.
7. The seventieth session of the Executive Council closed at 4.54 p.m. on 29 June 2018.
APPENDIX 1. AGENDA
1. AGENDA AND ORGANIZATIONAL MATTERS
1.1 Opening of the session
1.2 Approval of the agenda
1.3 Establishment of committees
1.4 Programme of work of the session
1.5 Approval of the minutes
2. REPORTS
2.1 Report by the President of the Organization
2.2 Report by the Secretary-General
2.3 Report of the 2018 Joint Meeting of the Presidents of Regional Associations and
Technical Commissions (PRA-PTC-2018)
2.4 Report of the 2018 Meeting of the Presidents of Regional Associations (PRA-2018) and
reports by the presidents of regional associations
2.5 Reports by the presidents of technical commissions
3. DISASTER RISK REDUCTION, RESILIENCE AND PREVENTION
3.1 WMO contribution to the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk
Reduction
3.2 Global Multi-hazard Alert System (GMAS)
4. CLIMATE SERVICES, SUPPORT TO CLIMATE ACTION AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE
4.1 WMO contribution to UNFCCC and related UN processes
4.2 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
4.3 Integrated health and urban services
4.4 Integrated Global Greenhouse Gas Information System (IG3IS)
4.5 Climate Services
4.6 Research and Operations Linkages in Climate Prediction
5. WEATHER SERVICES, SEVICE QUALITY AND DELIVERY
5.1 Implementation of the WMO Strategy for Service Delivery
5.2 Meteorological services for aviation
5.3 Meteorological services for marine and coastal operations
5.4 Meteorological services for agriculture
5.5 Qualifications and competencies of personnel

APPENDIX 1. AGENDA 3
6. HYDROLOGICAL SERVICES
7. OBSERVATIONS AND DATA EXCHANGE
7.1 WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS)
7.2 WMO Information System (WIS)
7.3 Emerging data issues
7.4 Implementation, evolution and design of observing systems
8. DATA PROCESSING, MODELLING AND FORECASTING
9. POLAR AND HIGH MOUNTAIN REGIONS
10. RESEARCH
10.1 Future WMO research
10.2 World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) Review
11. CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT
11.1 Education and Training
11.2 Voluntary Cooperation Programme
12. PARTNERSHIPS
12.1 Cooperation with the United Nations system
12.2 Public-Private Engagement
12.3 Decade on Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2020–2030)
12.4 Agreements with international organizations
12.5 Development partnerships
13. PUBLICATIONS AND DISTRIBUTION POLICY
14. GENDER EQUALITY
15. COMMUNICATION AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS
16. GOVERNANCE
16.1 Oversight
16.2 Strategic and Operational Planning and Budget
16.3 Governance review
16.4 Preparations for Congress

4 ABRIDGED FINAL REPORT OF THE SEVENTIETH SESSION OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
17. FINANCIAL, STAFF AND ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
17.1 Financial matters
17.2 Plan for funding liability for After-Service Health Insurance (ASHI)
17.3 Staff matters
17.4 WMO HQ building infrastructure
17.5 Procurement activities
18. GENERAL AND LEGAL MATTERS
18.1 International Meteorological Organization (IMO) Prize and other awards
18.2 Constitutional and regulatory matters
18.3 Designation of acting member(s) of the Executive Council
18.4 Review of subsidiary bodies and other bodies reporting to the Executive Council
19. SCIENTIFIC LECTURES AND DISCUSSIONS
20. REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS
21. DATE AND PLACE OF THE NEXT SESSIONS OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
22. CLOSURE OF THE SESSION

APPENDIX 2. RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION
Resolution 1 (EC-70)
Consolidated approach to severe weather forecasting
THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL,
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 13 (Cg-17) – Report of the extraordinary session (2014) of the Commission
for Basic Systems concerning the Global Data-processing and Forecasting System and
emergency response activities, which included the endorsement of Recommendation 23
(CBS-Ext.(2014)) – Proposed mechanism to strengthen operational centres, built upon the
lessons learned through the Severe Weather Forecasting Demonstration Project, which
proposed, inter alia, to establish the Severe Weather Forecasting Programme to emphasize
the need to develop sustained operational capability,
(2) Decision 9 (EC-68) – Severe Weather Forecasting Demonstration Project, which endorsed
the critical elements for consolidating the Severe Weather Forecasting Demonstration
Project (SWFDP) into global sustainable operational services,
(3) That the development of SWFDP in West Africa was initiated following a technical training
workshop on severe weather forecasting and public weather services held in Dakar in
November 2015, and a technical planning workshop on SWFDP implementation in West
Africa held in Abidjan in September 2016,
Noting that SWFDP, which was initiated in 2006 with the participation of just five countries in
south-eastern Africa, has been expanded to cover eight subregions with involvement of over
75 developing countries, least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing States
(SIDS) in southern Africa, the South Pacific, eastern Africa, South-East Asia, the Bay of Bengal,
Central Asia, West Africa and the Eastern Caribbean in Regional Associations (RAs) I, II, IV and
V; and that this has resulted in escalating training requirements requiring increased resources,
Noting also the interest in implementing SWFDP in Oceania (RA V), South America (RA III),
Central America (RA IV) and the rest of Africa (RA I),
Noting with satisfaction that SWFDP has been contributing to improving public safety and
disaster risk reduction through the cascading forecasting process that facilitates improved
forecasts and delivery of severe weather warnings by participating National Meteorological and
Hydrological Services, and that its synergies with the Flash Flood Guidance System (FFGS) in
southern Africa and other subregions is bringing more benefits to Members by allowing them to
provide operational support for multi-hazard early warning services,
Acknowledging that the SWFDP regional sub-projects are mainly funded through
extrabudgetary resources and that financial resource mobilization for the ongoing regional
sub-projects and their synergies with other relevant projects and activities, such as FFGS, has
always been challenging,
Considering:
(1) The Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) Management Group decision (March 2018) to
perform the overall 12-year review of SWFDP to assess benefits to participating developing
countries, LDCs and SIDS in terms of the contribution of SWFDP to forecasting and early
warning services, as well as to inform the future development and strategy of SWFDP,
including options to oversee the project in phase IV and to report to the Eighteenth World
Meteorological Congress,
(2) That Resolution 6 (CHy-15) – The Flood Forecasting Initiative and the contribution of the
Commission for Hydrology to the Disaster Risk Management Programme, and Decision
17 (JCOMM-5) – Future of the Coastal Inundation Forecasting Demonstration Project,

both called for independent review of the Coastal Inundation Forecasting Demonstration
Project (CIFDP) to consider developing a governance structure and procedures that would
transition CIFDP to a more sustainable platform for the strengthening of national multi-
hazard early warning systems to address flooding in coastal areas (see Decisions 10–12
(EC-70) and Resolution 16 (EC-70)),
(3) The recommendation of the Flood Forecasting Initiative Advisory Group (FFI-AG)
(December 2017) that the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and
Marine Meteorology (JCOMM) and the Commission for Hydrology (CHy) should conduct
an independent review of CIFDP and FFGS; and that CBS should do the same for SWFDP;
and that FFI-AG, through its Chairperson, will report on the reviews to Congress (see
Resolution 16 (EC-70),
Decides, as recommended by the Executive Council Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction:
(1) To conduct a joint independent review of SWFDP, FFGS and CIFDP, which are disaster
risk reduction supporting projects, with emphasis on how these projects have made a
difference to the life of communities they serve, on their training needs and sustainability,
and on the importance of a national voice for the dissemination of warning information;
(2) That, following the review of these projects, a consolidated approach should be developed
jointly by the presidents of CBS, CHy and JCOMM to ensure SWFDP, CIFDP and FFGS
ensure efficient, sustainable services related to hazardous weather, water and climate;
(3) That the result of the review and the consolidated approach should be reported to
Congress by the president of CHy, Chairperson of FFI-AG;
Requests the Secretary General to facilitate the effective implementation of the present
resolution;
Invites Members to contribute to the SWFDP Trust Fund to support the severe weather
programme office, enabling activities and the development of new SWFDP projects to expand
the programme towards global coverage.
WMO integrated approach to high-level climate-science-related

policy processes
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 1 (EC-68) – WMO support to the Paris Agreement,
(2) Decision 7 (EC-69) – WMO support to implementation of the Paris Agreement,
Recognizing that the Paris Agreement calls for “Strengthening scientific knowledge on climate,
including research, systematic observation of the climate system and early warning systems, in
a manner that informs climate services and supports decision-making” (Article 7, paragraph 7
(c)),
APPENDIX 2. RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION 7
Recognizing also the need for ensuring global coordination of key climate-related processes
such as regional and national climate forums, exchange of data and products, translating
research results into operations, and developing and assembling inputs for policy-related
products and services,
Noting that a memorandum of understanding was concluded in November 2017 between the
Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and
WMO encompassing the following strategic collaboration projects:
(1) Annual reporting on concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and the state
of the global climate,
(2) Climate services for adaptation planning and implementation,
(3) Observation-based tools for improved national greenhouse gas emission estimates,
(4) Regional collaboration for supporting adaptation and mitigation action,
Noting with satisfaction the enhanced relevance and impact of WMO involvement in the
UNFCCC process, as seen most recently through the successful submissions of the WMO
Greenhouse Gas Bulletin and the WMO Statements on the State of the Global Climate to the
twenty-second and twenty-third Conferences of the Parties,
Noting also:
(1) The interest expressed by the forty-seventh session of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Body for
Scientific and Technological Advice in the ongoing efforts by WMO and the Global Climate
Observing System (GCOS) programme to develop headline indicators of the state of the
climate, as well as in the progress in implementation of GCOS and the Global Framework
for Climate Services,
(2) That the forty-eighth session of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Body for Implementation invited
WMO to provide capacity-building to developing countries on the analysis of climate data
and the development and application of climate-change scenarios in vulnerability and risk
assessment,
(3) That the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Secretariat, in response to a call from its Board for
“Increased generation and use of climate information in decision-making” (GCF Board
Decision GCF/B.07/04) and development of “Steps to enhance the climate rationale of GCF-
supported activities” (GCF Board Decision GCF/B.19/06) is in advanced discussions with
WMO concerning the provision of WMO expert services for the development of the climate
rationale concept, methodology, and implementation approach for all GCF-funded activities
(see also EC-70/INF. 12.5),
(4) The relevance of evidence-based scientific products and information for climate investment
decision making,
Noting further:
(1) The relevance of climate risk transfer schemes for managing risks of climate-related loss
and damage, and the value of data generated through WMO activities for the development
and implementation of such schemes,
(2) That to realize the full potential of WMO contributions to such schemes would require
further development of the technical capacities of National Meteorological and Hydrological
Services (NMHSs), as well as development of business models to enhance NMHS
engagement,
Having considered:
(1) The emerging directions in the draft WMO Strategic and Operating Plans for the next
financial period, including a focus on climate services for climate-resilient development,
through the expansion and broadening of the provision of policy- and decision-making
supporting climate information and services at all levels,
(2) The relevance of WMO climate science products to UNFCCC and other high policy
frameworks and processes, such as the Sustainable Development Goals, Sendai Framework
for Disaster Risk Reduction, Paris Agreement “global stocktake” and Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change (IPCC),
Decides to adopt an integrated approach to the provision of climate services for high-level
policy processes comprising, inter alia, the following elements:
(1) Provision of guidance on methodologies and tools to Members for the preparation of
analyses of past, present and future climate as needed to assess collective progress of
climate action under the Paris Agreement; and also to underpin preparation of nationally
determined contributions to the Paris Agreement, adaptation communication, biennial
reports under the enhanced transparency framework, national adaptation plans, and for
climate-proofing of investments ;
(2) Continued integration of such analyses into WMO flagship publications such as the annual
“Statement on the State of the Global Climate” and other reports on the regional state of
the climate;
(3) Further alignment of WMO-supported climate analyses relevant to the scientific assessment
of IPCC;
(4) Sustained and systematic capacity development and technical assistance to NMHSs as
needed in the above and related areas, drawing to the extent possible on extrabudgetary
resources and leveraging those resources through strategic partnerships;
(5) Engagement with partners and initiatives to explore WMO contributions to index-based
climate risk transfer mechanisms;
Requests WMO Members, regional associations, technical commissions and programmes,

including co-sponsored programmes, to collaborate and contribute to the above-mentioned
activities;
Requests Members to provide voluntary contributions to strengthen WMO capacity for

supporting climate risk transfer efforts;
Invites further dialogue between the secretariats of IPCC and UNFCCC;
Requests the Secretary-General:
(1) To continue preparations for support to high-level climate-related science-policy processes

along the lines indicated above and to report back on progress to the Eighteenth World
Meteorological Congress;
(2) To further assist Members, through NMHS capacity development, to strengthen and sustain
national climate system observations, and provide relevant climate information as input
for submissions of their governments on national adaptation plans, nationally determined
contributions and projects for climate finance;
(3) To promote strategic partnerships, for example with relevant institutions, including the
secretariat of UNFCCC and its operating entities, and international finance institutions,
to enable the realization of the elements of the present resolution at global, regional and
national levels;
(4) To assist Members to further engage in supporting climate risk transfer efforts, subject to
the availability of dedicated funding for such support.
Integrated health services
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 1 (Cg-Ext.(2012)) – Implementation Plan of the Global Framework for Climate
Services,
(2) Resolution 47 (Cg-17) – Global Atmosphere Watch Programme,
(3) Resolution 68 (Cg-17) – Establishing a WMO cross-cutting urban focus,
(4) Decision 15 (EC-68) – Implementation of the WMO cross-cutting urban focus,
(5) Decision 62 (EC-68) – Global Atmosphere Watch Implementation Plan for the period
2016–2023,
Recognizing that hydrometeorological and environmental phenomena affect human health

outcomes in myriad ways, including through exposure to increasing temperatures, degraded
air and water quality; food and nutritional insecurity; water-, food-, and vector-borne diseases;
ultraviolet radiation and environmentally transported chemicals; and through high-impact
events such as drought, flooding, storms, and heat and cold waves,
Noting the increasing importance of poor air quality and extreme heat as emerging health
risks in urban areas worldwide, as well as the particular vulnerability of populations in low- and
middle-income countries and small island developing States,
Noting also that to establish an effective mechanism and the resources necessary to deliver
integrated health services there is a need to enhance the coherent approach and coordination
of ongoing activities in support of Members across relevant WMO programmes and initiatives,
including those activities provided through the Global Framework for Climate Services, the
air quality work of the Global Atmosphere Watch Programme, the work of WMO technical
commissions and regional associations, and that of other relevant programmes,
Noting further that the current capacity, experience and collaboration between the health
and meteorological communities to develop, deliver, access and use climate and relevant
environmental information remains insufficiently developed, and that some National
Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) require support from WMO to further engage
with the health sector and share best practices,
Mindful of the need to address the following issues, as well as identify the appropriate
mechanisms for their implementation:
(1) Promotion of the alignment of relevant policies and awareness-raising of environmental,

and weather-, water- and climate-related risks and solutions to protect human health,
(2) Promotion of the generation and application of scientific evidence,

(3) Development of appropriate technical mechanisms and partnerships to facilitate the

development, delivery, access to, and use of data and tailored information products on
weather, water and climate, and environmental hazards to health,
(4) Development and dissemination of technical and normative guidance, scientific publications
and tools, and other actions to support capacity development,
(5) Monitoring of progress on the access to and use of reliable and relevant weather, climate
and environmental information,
Decides:
(1) To strengthen WMO efforts for research and service delivery for global health applications
through greater integration of WMO work on weather, water, climate and environment as
related to health;
(2) That WMO integrated support for improved weather-, water-, environment- and climate-
related health outcomes should be accommodated and facilitated through any new
structures and processes emanating from the ongoing review of WMO governance
structures;
Requests that, in implementing the WMO Strategy for Service Delivery, the Commission for
Climatology, the Commission for Basic Systems and other relevant commissions (or their future
equivalent structures) focus on strengthening capacities of NMHSs to engage with the health
community to collect and share health-related data, serve the health sector through impact-
based forecast health services, and provide guidance materials for use by NMHSs to improve
service delivery in the area of health;
(1) To develop, jointly with the World Health Organization (WHO), and with sufficient input
from and coordination with Members and across relevant programmes of WMO, for the
consideration by the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress, a seamless and holistic
five-year programme of work on climate, environment and health, including proposed
mechanisms and means for implementation of integrated health services, as agreed in the
Collaboration Framework on Climate, Environment and Health between WMO and WHO
(May 2018);
(2) To collaborate with WHO on the formation of a joint expert group, depending on the
outcome of the governance review, that will involve experts from both organizations to
enable co-design of products and services required to effectively support public health by
all Members;
(3) To support the development of capacities of NMHSs to deliver services to the health
sector by providing them with guidance material on operational delivery of health-related
services; and communication channels and dissemination methodologies for targeted user
groups of specific health-related weather information;
Urges Members:
(1) To contribute to the development of the joint programme of work for integrated health
services by sharing current capacities, expertise and experience for the provision of
integrated health services;
(2) To strengthen cooperation between the health, meteorological, hydrological and

environmental communities at the national level;
Invites WHO and relevant stakeholders, including funding agencies, to contribute to the
development and implementation of the joint programme of work, and to promote the
necessary collaborations that will enable Members to fully benefit from the capacities of the
WMO and health communities.
Mid-term review of the Global Framework for Climate Services
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 1 (Cg-Ext.(2012)) – Implementation Plan of the Global Framework for Climate
Services,
(2) Resolution 2 (Cg-Ext.(2012)) – Establishment of the Intergovernmental Board on Climate

Services,
(3) Resolution 2 (IBCS-1) – Implementation Plan of the Global Framework for Climate Services,
Recognizing:
(1) That the vision of the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS), as formulated by the
High-level Taskforce of independent advisors comprised of eminent personalities in the
fields of leadership, governance, science and policy, was to establish an operational end-to-
end system for providing climate services and applying them in decision-making at every
level of society, an undertaking that would require unprecedented collaboration across
political, functional and disciplinary boundaries,
(2) That effectiveness in realizing the vision of GFCS would require strengthened cooperation
and partnerships with partner organizations and stakeholders according to their mandates,
Noting that, at its third session (October 2015), the Management Committee of the
Intergovernmental Board on Climate Services (IBCS-MC) recommended that a review of the
GFCS be conducted at the beginning of phase II of GFCS implementation (2015–2018),
Noting also:
(1) That the University of Arizona was selected to conduct the review through, inter alia, wide-
ranging consultations with all the relevant stakeholders,
(2) That the University of Arizona had produced a mid-term review report that was considered
by the fifth session of IBCS-MC (October 2017),
Noting further:
(1) That IBCS-MC had discussed the mid-term review report and responded to it by
establishing two taskforces: (a) to review the governance, management and finances of
GFCS; (b) to lead a strategy to enhance implementation of the priorities of GFCS; and
by establishing four working groups: (a) to identify climate services standards needs;
(b) to review and provide guidance to enhance the GFCS communication strategy; (c) to
articulate the linkage of GFCS with major policy agendas; (d) to brainstorm and clarify the
concept of the user interface platform,
(2) The taskforces and working groups will prepare specific recommendations for the
consideration of the sixth session of IBCS-MC in October 2018 in Rome,
Mindful that the Management Committee of IBCS will prepare recommendations based on the
reports of the taskforces and working groups it established at its fifth session in October 2017,
for the consideration of the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress,
Endorses the mid-term review process initiated by the Management Committee of IBCS;
Invites IBCS-MC to take into account the ongoing WMO governance review that would be
beneficial for GFCS implementation and to develop its recommendations to Congress in
coordination with the Executive Council Working Group on Strategic and Operational Planning;
Requests the Secretary-General to facilitate exchange of information between the review of

the governance, management and finances of GFCS and the WMO governance review to ensure
that the two processes inform each other;
Requests the Chairperson of IBCS to submit specific recommendations, based on the

conclusions of IBCS-MC at its sixth session and on the recommendations of the taskforces and
working groups on the GFCS mid-term review findings, on further steps in the implementation
of GFCS for the consideration of the Eighteenth Meteorological Congress.
Recommendations of the Commission for Climatology at its seventeenth session
Having considered Commission for Climatology: Abridged Final Report of the Seventeenth
Session (WMO-No. 1216),
Decides to endorse the report and to take action on the recommendations in it as follows:
(1) Recommendation 1 (CCl-17) – Review of Executive Council resolutions and

decisions concerning the Commission for Climatology
Takes into account this recommendation when dealing with agenda item 20 of the present
session;
(2) Recommendation 2 (CCl-17) – Strengthening the integration and coordination of

WMO contributions to the provision of policy- and decision-supporting climate
information and services
Approves this recommendation and takes it into account in Recommendation 3 (EC-70);
(3) Recommendation 3 (CCl-17) – Continuation and strengthening of the work of the

Commission for Climatology
Agrees to take into account the ongoing work and planned deliverables of the Commission
for Climatology (CCl) in the ongoing WMO governance review and to ensure that their
continuity is adequately incorporated into the governance review outcomes;
(4) Recommendation 4 (CCl-17) – Climate Services Information System Technical

Reference
(a) Approves the recommendation;
(b) Requests the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) and other bodies relevant to
Climate Services Information System (CSIS) functions and operations to support CCl
efforts in the development of CSIS Technical Reference;
(c) Requests CBS, in collaboration with CCl, to identify activities relevant to CSIS
functions yet to be defined in the Manual on the Global Data-processing and
Forecasting System (WMO-No. 485) to provide authentic and well-coordinated sources
of global information to Members;
(d) Requests the Secretary-General to support the deployment of the Climate Services
Toolkit at national level, and to facilitate inputs from other climate information
providers into the CSIS, including research institutions, academia, multilateral
organizations and the private sector;
(5) Recommendation 5 (CCl-17) – Trial phase for the international exchange of daily
climate observations
(b) Urges Members to actively support the trial phase;
(c) Requests CBS, in consultation with CCl, to assist in the operational implementation
of the trial phase of the international exchange, on a monthly basis, of daily climate
observations, including the provision of a handbook on reporting practices;
(d) Requests the Secretary-General to inform Members of the details of the

implementation of the proposed international exchange of daily climate observations
and to explore possibilities to extend this approach to other types of observations,
including marine observations, in close consultation with relevant technical
commissions;
(6) Recommendation 6 (CCl-17) – Good practices in the use and interpretation of

climate change projections on regional and national scales
(b) Urges WMO Regional Climate Centres (RCCs) and RCC Networks to take up the highly
recommended function on regional climate change projections to promote good
practices;
(c) Requests the Secretary-General to support the implementation of the guidance on

good practices in all Regions;
(7) Recommendation 7 (CCl-17) – Enhancing operational climate monitoring using

the WMO standard infrastructure and regulatory framework
(b) Requests CBS to provide the necessary technical advice and support CCl in ensuring
that WMO standard infrastructure and regulatory frameworks are used in the delivery
of WMO climate data, information and products;
(8) Recommendation 8 (CCl-17) – Global Seasonal Climate Update operationalization
(b) Requests CBS to support further development and operational coordination of the
Global Seasonal Climate Update (GSCU) through the CBS/CCl Inter-Programme Expert
Team on Operational Predictions on Sub-seasonal to Longer-time Scales;
(c) Requests the WMO Lead Centre for Long-range Forecast Multi-model Ensembles
(LC-LRFMME), jointly coordinated by the Korea Meteorological Administration and the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, to integrate GSCU production and
dissemination into the LC-LRFMME operational schedule;
(9) Recommendation 9 (CCl-17) – Integrated capacity development process for the

Climate Services Information System
(b) Requests technical commissions, especially CBS, the Commission for Hydrology,
the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology and the Joint WMO/IOC Technical
Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM), and the Global
Framework for Climate Services (GFCS), to actively collaborate with CCl on capacity
development for CSIS implementation, including outreach;
(c) Requests the Secretary-General to monitor climate services capacity improvements

via the WMO climate services checklist, through the WMO country profile database;
(10) Recommendation 10 (CCl-17) – Human resource development through

implementation of competencies for provision of climate services
(b) Requests WMO Regional Training Centres (RTCs) to contribute to the development and
delivery of the Basic Instructional Package for Climate Services;
(c) Invites RCCs to coordinate their training functions with RTCs;
(d) Requests the Secretary-General:
(i) To assist in twinning National Meteorological and Hydrological Services offering

training programmes to support Members’ requirements for developing the
capacity of their technical climate staff;
(ii) To promote the use of blended training approaches (distance and face-to-face
learning);
(iii) To foster international collaboration for the development of higher education

programmes and technical training;
(11) Recommendation 11 (CCl-17) – Approval of the updated version of the third

edition of the Guide to Climatological Practices (WMO-No. 100)
(b) Requests the Secretary-General to make the updated version of the Guide available to
Members and facilitate its translation into other WMO official languages;
(c) Requests that the next updated version of the Guide to Climatological Practices be
done in liaison with JCOMM;
(12) Recommendation 12 (CCl-17) – National focal points of the Climate Services

Information System
(b) Approves the terms of reference for national focal points of CSIS presented in the
annex to the present resolution;
(c) Urges Members to establish national focal points of CSIS and facilitate their work in
meeting their terms of reference;
(d) Requests the Secretary-General to support the provision of the necessary guidance,
tools and training for the national focal points of CSIS, in close coordination with CCl
and GFCS.
Annex to Resolution 5 (EC-70)
National focal points of the Climate Services Information System
TERMS OF REFERENCE
National focal points of the Climate Services Information System (CSIS) are closely engaged
with technical aspects of climate services implementation at the national level. Their designation
does not supersede other technical focal points working on other technical aspects.
Key functions include:
(1) Facilitate the functioning of the mechanism for WMO contributions to the Global Framework
for Climate Services (GFCS) and the activities including to:
(a) engage with partner organizations seeking to support the implementation of climate
services,
(b) implement the activities and outputs of the country-focused results based framework
for WMO contributions to the GFCS Objective 1 (Institutional, technical, financial and
human resources mobilized for climate services planning, implementation and results
monitoring targeting climate-sensitive national priorities),
(c) prepare products relevant for high-level climate-related policy processes and United
Nations system joint action, such as catalogues of high-impact events for tracking
associated losses and damage, preparation of National Adaptation Plans and Nationally
Determined Contributions to the Paris Agreement, and National Climate Monitoring
Products,
(d) keep under review the emerging features of the Climate Services Information System
(CSIS) within the implementation of the GFCS at the national level and regularly
report on the status and priority needs through updates to the checklist for climate
services and WMO surveys contained in the WMO Country Profile Database,
(e) prepare short- and long-term action plans for national level implementation of the
Climate Services Information System (CSIS),
(f) monitor capacity needs for CSIS operationalization and identify, and coordinate
access to, relevant capacity development resources to address those needs, including
through staff training, twinning arrangements with advanced services and expert
deployments, national deployment of the Climate Services Toolkit, and engagement
with Regional Climate Centres (RCCs) and Regional Climate Forums (RCFs),
(2) Act as the primary contact point for liaising with WMO entities engaged in supporting
climate services implementation at the national level – e.g. WMO and co-sponsored
programmes, technical commission focal points, regional association working groups and
focal points on climate and the GFCS, RCCs, and Global Producing Centres (GPCs) – and
promote the alignment of the contributions of these entities towards addressing national
climate services related technical priorities and needs.
WMO recognition of long-term observing stations
Recalling:
(1) Decision 40 (EC-68) – WMO mechanism for the recognition of long-term observing
stations,
(2) Decision 8 (EC-69) – Recognition of WMO long-term observing stations,
(3) The WMO recognition mechanism and the lists of candidate and recognized long-term
observing stations (accessible by WMO regional association, information on which can
be found at https://public.wmo.int/en/our-mandate/what-we-do/observations/centennial
-observing-stations),
Recognizing that preserving long-term observing stations, including centennial stations, is a

responsibility of Members’ governments for sustaining irreplaceable climate heritage to serve
current and future generations’ needs for long-term high-quality climate records,
Noting with satisfaction:
(1) That a list of 60 stations representing all WMO regional associations was approved by the
Executive Council at its sixty-ninth session in 2017; that this was the introduction of the
WMO recognition mechanism for long-term observing stations; and that some Members
took this opportunity to celebrate the WMO recognition at local and national levels,
(2) That Members provided additional information to reassess 26 candidate stations that had
not been submitted for recognition in 2017,
(3) That 25 Members, representing 5 regional associations, submitted 72 candidate stations in

response to a second WMO call in late 2017 to nominate not more than 3 stations,
(4) That the ad hoc advisory board for the recognition of long-term observing stations
considered 98 candidate stations, among which 57 were assessed to be ready for
recognition by the Executive Council at it seventieth session, while the remaining need
further analysis in collaboration with Members,
Noting also the evaluation of the above lists of candidate stations by the ad hoc advisory
board with representation from the Commission for Climatology, the Commission for Basic
Systems, the Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation and the Global Climate
Observing System programme,
Noting further that candidate stations that have been submitted by Members and require
further analysis are still under evaluation by the advisory board, either for submission for future
recognition or for further feedback to Members,
Endorses to endorse the proposal to recognize 57 centennial observing stations as long-term

observing stations as provided in the annex to the present resolution;
Invites Members to further strengthen their efforts to achieve sustainable high-quality

long-term observations, to continue collaborating on the WMO recognition mechanism in
particular and to promote it at the highest local, regional and national governmental levels, as
appropriate;
Requests the Secretary-General to further promote the WMO recognition for long-term
observing stations, to improve the practice of the recognition mechanism to allow more
timely feedback to Members on the status of their nominations, and to issue another call for
nomination of candidate stations in 2019.
WMO recognition of long-term observing stations
Summary of advisory board review
List of centennial observing stations recommended for recognition (57 stations)

RA Country Station, WMO No. (where applicable) Start of observation
Morocco Casablanca, 60155 1911
South Africa Zuurbekom, 68351 1899
I United Republic Bukoba, -- 1893
of Tanzania Songea, -- 1908
Zimbabwe Bulawayo Goetz, 67964 1897
Akkol, 35085 1909

Kazakhstan Aral tenizi, 35746 1884
Mikhailovka, 29802 1907
Khudjant, 38599 1866
Tajikistan
Murgab, 38878 1894
II Chiang Mai, 48327 1911
Thailand Kanchana Buri, 48450 1911
Ubon Ratchatai, 48407 1911
Fergana, 38618 1880
Uzbekistan
Tashkent, 38457 1867
Viet Nam Phu Lien, 48826 1906
RA Country Station, WMO No. (where applicable) Start of observation

Base Orcadas (Antarctica), 88968 1904
Ceres, 87257 1896
Argentina La Quiaca Observatorio, 87007 1902
III
Malargüe, 87506 1914
Pilar Observatorio, 87349 1907
Chile Juan Fernandez, 85585 1901
Central Tacubaya, 76680 1877

Mexico Merida Aeropuesto Intl, 76644 1898
Zakatecas (La Bufa), 76525 1877
Buffalo Bill Dam, -- 1905
IV
Purdum, -- 1902
United States of
America Saint Johnsbury, -- 1894
University Experiment Station
1911
(Alaska), --
Graz University, -- 1894

Austria Innsbruck University, -- 1877
Stift Zwettl, -- 1883
Kneja, 15520 1910
Bulgaria Obrazcov Chflik, -- 1890
Sliven, 15640 1889
Croatia Zagreb-Gric, 14236 1861
Czechia Prague-Klementinum, 11515 1775
Helsinki, 02978 1844
Finland
Kuusamo Airport, 02869 1909
Stykkisholmur, -- 1846
Iceland
Teigarhorn, -- 1881
Moncalieri- Collegio Carlo Alberto, -- 1859
Osservatorio Valerio, -- 1871
VI Osservatorio Ximeniano, -- 1813
Italy Roma Collegio Romano 1787
Urbino – Osservatorio Alessandro
1850
Serpieri, --
Vigna di Valle, 16224 1910
Mersrags, 26324 1895
Latvia
Priekuli, 26335 1912
Lithuania Panevezys, 26529 1894
Spain Barcelona (Observatorio Fabra), -- 1913
United Kingdom Armagh, -- 1836
of Great Britain Llysdinam, -- 1882
and Northern
Ireland Morpeth, Cockle Park, -- 1897
Odesa, 33837 1866
Ukraine Poltava, 33506 1886
Uman, 33587 1886
Amendment to Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume II –

Meteorological Service for International Air Navigation
Noting that Amendment 78 to the International Standards and Recommended Practices,

Meteorological Service for International Air Navigation (Annex 3 to the Convention on
International Civil Aviation) was adopted by the Council of the International Civil Aviation
Organization (ICAO) on 7 March 2018, with an effective date of 16 July 2018 and an applicability
date of 8 November 2018, except for those provisions that contain embedded applicability dates
of 7 November 2019 or 5 November 2020,
Noting also that Amendment 78 to Annex 3 to the Convention was fully coordinated with WMO,
Noting further the established procedures that ensure the alignment of Annex 3 to the
Convention and WMO Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume II,
Approves the amendment to WMO Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume II, which
ensures its necessary alignment with Amendment 78 to Annex 3 of the Convention on
International Civil Aviation as provided in the annex to the present resolution;
(1) To arrange for the expeditious publication of the amended Technical Regulations (WMO-No.
49), Volume II;
(2) To review, assisted by the president of the Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology
(CAeM), and, as necessary, to publish updates to related WMO guidance material to ensure
consistency with the amended Technical Regulations, Volume II;
Recommends the Secretary-General, assisted by the president of CAeM and in coordination

with ICAO, to seek opportunities to improve efficiency through the elimination of duplication
or redundancy between WMO and ICAO regulatory and guidance material relating to
meteorological service for international air navigation.

This amendment to WMO-No. 49, Technical Regulations, Volume II, Meteorological Service for
International Air Navigation is to align with Amendment 78 to Annex 3 to the ICAO Convention
on International Civil Aviation which was adopted by the Council of ICAO on 7 March 2018.
The following text, taken from Amendment 78 to ICAO Annex 3, serves as the basis of the
amendment to WMO-No. 49, Technical Regulations, Volume II.
After approval by the Executive Council, WMO-No. 49, Technical Regulations, Volume II
incorporating Amendment 78 will be published by WMO as the 2018 Edition.

Scientific research and development in aeronautical meteorology
Recalling Decision 44 (EC-68) – Intercommission Aviation Research Project, which, inter

alia, endorsed the proposed organizing of a WMO scientific event with broad participation of
research, operations and user communities, with the objective of identifying needs and planning
the research activities during block 1 and block 2 of the International Civil Aviation Organization
(ICAO) Global Air Navigation Plan (GANP) aviation system block upgrades (ASBU) methodology,
Noting with satisfaction the organization of a WMO Aeronautical Meteorology Scientific

Conference in Toulouse, France, from 6 to 10 November 2017, and the availability of a
conference proceedings publication (Proceedings of the 2017 WMO Aeronautical Meteorology
Scientific Conference (AeroMetSci-2017), AeM SERIES No. 2) and a conference website, which
together provide all of the associated technical materials and outcomes of the conference,
Having examined the recommendations of AeroMetSci-2017 provided in the annex to the

present resolution that provide a common vision for future scientific research and development
activities aligned with the evolving needs and expectations of international civil aviation,
together with an increased awareness of the potential impacts of climate change and variability
on aviation operations now and into the future,
Noting with interest that a number of AeroMetSci-2017 recommendations relate to the need
for quick transfer of research results into operations,
Noting also that aviation remains a priority customer and activity for almost all WMO Members
and that significant changes are taking place in the way in which meteorological services are
provided to aviation users,
Decides:
(1) To endorse the AeroMetSci-2017 recommendations;
(2) That the Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology (CAeM), Commission for Atmospheric
Sciences (CAS) and Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) should develop an efficient
mechanism for timely transfer of research results into operations to ensure continuous
improvement of operational services to aviation;
(3) That CAeM, in collaboration with other relevant commissions, should explore ways to
efficiently transfer aeronautical meteorological information into air traffic management
impacts to enable full integration in the strategic planning and pre-tactical and tactical
decision-making needs of aviation users;
Requests the presidents of CAeM, CAS and CBS to ensure that the outcomes of
AeroMetSci-2017 are well-communicated and used by the technical commissions to direct future
scientific and technological advancement in support of the evolving needs of aviation;
Requests the presidents of the regional associations to consider how the outcomes of
AeroMetSci-2017 can be used by Members to best serve the meteorological needs of aviation
users at a regional or subregional level;
Calls upon Members to review and apply the outcomes of AeroMetSci-2017 with a view to
accelerating the transition from research to operations through, in particular, community
partnerships that already exist or that should be established at a national and/or multinational
level involving public and private enterprise where applicable;
(1) To ensure that ICAO and other aviation stakeholders are kept informed of progress in
respect of meteorological scientific and technological advancement consistent with the
evolving GANP and ASBU methodology and the working arrangements between WMO and
ICAO;
(2) To make the necessary resources available to maintain the level of support to address
Members’ needs in the area of meteorological service for international air navigation,
including resources to organize similar future aeronautical meteorology scientific
conferences taking into consideration the evolving needs of aviation users and
technological advancements, including the outcomes of the intercommission (CAeM, CAS
and CBS) Aviation Research Demonstration Project.
Recommendations and statement of the 2017 WMO Aeronautical Meteorology

Scientific Conference
The following provides the outcomes, in the form of recommendations and a statement, of the
2017 WMO Aeronautical Meteorology Scientific Conference (AeroMetSci-2017) held from 6 to 10
November 2017 in Toulouse, France:
Recommendation 1
In the context of science underpinning aeronautical meteorological (MET) observations,

forecasts, advisories and warnings, the conference recommended that:
(1) Research activities demand improved access to data, especially aircraft-based observations
to support validation, verification and calibration as part of a continuous improvement
drive;
(2) Research efforts should be conducted in collaboration with users to ensure their needs are
addressed;
(3) The transition from research to operations following validation should be accelerated and
well communicated;
(4) Conveying uncertainty is required to inform risk management, but remains a challenge that
needs further research and guidance; and
(5) MET hazards and their impacts on aviation should be more clearly defined and articulated.
Recommendation 2
In the context of integration, use cases, fitness for purpose and service delivery, the
conference recommended that:
(1) Close collaboration within and across MET and air traffic management (ATM) communities
should be actively encouraged as a prerequisite of impact assessment and an enabler to
future global interoperability and harmonization;
(2) Establishing ATM users’ requirements should be a prerequisite for tailored, fit-for-purpose
MET solutions;
(3) MET information must be translatable into ATM impacts to enable full integration in the
strategic planning, pre-tactical and tactical decision-making phases;
(4) Probabilistic methodologies with proper verification and calibration should be applied to
better convey to users where and to what extent inherent forecast uncertainties exist;
(5) Blending MET parameters through ensemble approaches that yield a higher quality, more
usable forecasts should be further pursued but with an acknowledgement of the potential
masking of extremes;
(6) Machine-learning such as artificial intelligence could be pursued to optimize MET support to
ATM in the era of ‘Big Data’;
(7) Design of systems for delivering harmonized MET information to pilots and other
stakeholders should further consider the need for standardization and collaborative
decision-making (CDM);
(8) An increasingly automated ATM operating environment will require supporting MET
educational programmes for end-users; and
(9) The research-to-operations process for prioritized MET products and services reaching
maturity should be expedited.
Recommendation 3
In the context of climate change and variability on aviation and associated science
requirements, the conference recommended that:
(1) The potential impacts of climate change and variability on aviation operations on the
ground and in the air, downscaled to the local level, must be well researched and
communicated;
(2) The mitigation of extreme weather events and the adaptation to a changing climate
demands a multidisciplinary effort involving both the physical and the social sciences.
Furthermore, all stakeholders in meteorology and aviation must work together, including
through WMO and ICAO, to build consensus on robust, sustainable global solutions;
(3) Responding to climate variability will require a high degree of flexibility on the aviation
users’ side. While the incidence of high-impact extreme weather events are expected to
increase, they will be infrequent relative to the norm. The foreseen continued growth of
aviation worldwide in a changing climate scenario may present new challenges as demand
for airspace capacity increases;
(4) Improved availability of and access to high-quality in-situ observations of meteorological

parameters, including water vapour, is a key enabler to improving climate prediction model
capabilities. The preservation of such data is essential for validating and calibrating climate
predictions; and
(5) A changing climate scenario may render some of today’s aerodrome, airspace and airframe
design and operation standards inadequate in the years or decades to come. Using
past climatological records alone as an indicator of future climate at an airport, may be
insufficient given the (current) rate at which the world’s climate is changing (warming).
Statement
The conference stated that:
(1) There is a tremendous amount of ongoing cross-disciplinary research in the field of

aeronautical meteorology (MET). This collaborative scientific excellence should be
leveraged to enable the future global air traffic management (ATM) system;
(2) The role of MET as a key enabler to aviation’s vision for a globally interoperable,
harmonized ATM system of the future that is safer, more efficient and more
environmentally responsible will only be realized through the accelerated transition of
scientific research and technological advancement into operations based on aviation users’
needs, new and improved community partnerships, trust, transparency and openness; and
(3) As the potential impacts of climate change and variability on aviation operations become
better understood, the research community should continue to advance relevant science
and communicate in a style that is well understood by the user.
Global and regional landscape of aeronautical meteorological service provision
Recalling Decision 42 (EC-69) – Future of aeronautical meteorological services, which, inter

alia, addressed the outcomes of an “EC-69 Special Dialogue on the Future of Aeronautical
Meteorological Services” and associated follow-up actions,
Noting with satisfaction the WMO publication of Outcomes of the 2016–2017 Global Survey
on Aeronautical Meteorological Service Provision (Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology
(CAeM), AeM SERIES No. 1), which provides detailed findings on the global and regional
landscape of aeronautical meteorological service provision, as well as general findings, trends
and recommendations,
Having examined the main findings arising from the CAeM global survey as provided in the
annex to the present resolution,
Decides that the presidents of regional associations, in coordination with the president of
CAeM, should:
(1) Develop a mechanism by which the outcomes of the global survey, downscaled to the
regional or subregional level as necessary, can be used to establish prioritized, targeted
and suitably funded capacity development activities for those Members most in need of
assistance with aeronautical meteorological service provision;
(2) Undertake a review of the outcomes of the global survey from a regional perspective and
assist Members in their respective Regions in the supply of regularly updated information
of existing national practices to the CAeM;
Requests the president of CAeM to ensure that the outcomes of the global survey, including
identification of Members’ challenges and gaps in aeronautical meteorological service
provision, are well communicated and used by CAeM to direct future priorities within the WMO
Aeronautical Meteorology Programme;
Urges Members to analyse the outcomes of the CAeM global survey, particularly in the context
of the national legal/regulatory frameworks and issues such as cost recovery; this should be
done with a view to determining the implications for National Meteorological and Hydrological
Services of identified trends in the provision of aeronautical meteorological services and to
identifying common practices; and to supply updated information on existing national practices
to CAeM by 2020 initially and at regular intervals thereafter;
Requests the Secretary-General to make the necessary resources available to support

Members in addressing the issues identified in the CAeM global survey, in particular the
challenges and gaps associated with aeronautical meteorological service provision, and the
collection of regularly updated information from Members of existing national practices.
Main findings arising from the 2016–2017 Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology
global survey on aeronautical meteorological service provision
MWO, AMO and AMS functions
One of the main focusses of the survey was on the ICAO/WMO service provision functions of
meteorological watch office (MWO), aerodrome meteorological office (AMO) and aeronautical
meteorological station (AMS).
Globally, there are approximately 230 MWOs and at least 600 AMOs and 1,250 AMSs serving
international civil aviation.1 In addition, aeronautical meteorological services are being provided
to approximately 2,500 domestic airports worldwide.
There is a large variety of arrangements and conditions within and between States and
Territories, as well as across regions, for the provision of aeronautical meteorological service.
The maturity of aeronautical meteorological service providers (AMSP) varies significantly across
the WMO Members.
In a majority (approximately 60%) of States and Territories, the MWO, AMO and AMS
functions are provided by national meteorological and hydrological services (NMHS). Air traffic
services (ATS) organizations are the second largest provider (between 15 and 25%) with
25% performing the MWO function, while military entities, airport authorities and commercial
meteorological service providers complete the portfolio of AMSPs. The largest variety of entities
providing ICAO/WMO functions is noticed for AMS service provision. In 20% of States and
Territories, the AMS service provision is made up of a combination of these entities.
Twenty-five percent of Members have no responsibility to maintain a continuous meteorological

watch over a flight information region and, therefore, do not have an MWO. Of those Members
with responsibility to maintain a continuous meteorological watch over a flight information
region (or regions), 64% of Members are responsible for one MWO, and 5% of Members for two
MWOs.
In total, over 80% of States and Territories have less than five AMOs. There are three States
however with more than fifty AMOs, and in total there are approximately 600 AMOs in place.
1
The numbers for AMO and AMS do not include the offices and stations of the 18 Members that did not respond.
While precise data on number of AMOs existing in the past is not readily available, it is
considered that the number of AMOs existing today has reduced over the years as more and
more AMO functions are performed from a regional or centralized location. In other words, AMO
are no longer always physically located at an aerodrome.
Three quarters of Members have between one and five AMSs while 12% have between six and
ten AMSs. The remainder varies between 21 and 50 AMSs. It is worthwhile to note that three
Members respectively have responsibility for providing 67, 71 and 153 AMSs.
Almost 50% of Members indicated that there are plans to migrate to fully automated aerodrome
observations, which is already the case for 3% of Members. Almost 40% of Members indicated
that there are no plans to migrate to fully automated aerodrome observations. The differences
in this regard between regional associations are significant.
The reasons for not migrating fully to automated aerodrome observations vary significantly
between States and Territories and across regions and includes quality issues, lack of funding or
negative business cases as well as States and Territories that opt for a hybrid approach.
In a majority (70%) of States and Territories the meteorological observational data of the AMS
is made available free of charge to the NMHS. In 6% of cases a charge is involved for the NMHS
and in 5% of States and Territories the observation data is not being made available to the
NMHS at all. Seventeen Members (9%) indicated that there are issues regarding the sharing and
provision of the meteorological observation data in their State or Territory.
Regulatory frameworks
The ICAO and WMO regulatory provisions are strongly reflected in the national legal/regulatory
frameworks of States and Territories. In almost 80% of Members, the MWO, AMO and AMS
functions are assigned through a formal designation to service providers.
The notion of ‘meteorological authority’ is not applied uniformly by all responding States and
Territories. Many AMSPs no longer perform the role of regulator, which was a common case
in the past for many NMHSs serving as AMSPs. In more than 70% of Members functional
separation between regulation, service provision and oversight already exists.
Twenty-five percent of Members were of the opinion that the entity providing oversight does not
possess adequate expertise in aeronautical meteorology. Several Members identified oversight
deficiencies ranging from having no oversight at all to a need for more guidance and assistance.
Quality management systems (QMS) implementation
In a majority of States and Territories the AMSPs have fully (68%) or partially (14%)
implemented QMS. This is a significant improvement compared to previous years. However, at
the same time, more than 30% of Members face a regulatory risk because of lack of a QMS or
only a partially implemented QMS. The main reasons for such non-compliance have been stated
as lack of funding and/or human resources, or low priority given by the government.
Of the AMSPs that have fully implemented a QMS, only one in every eight are certified to
the ISO 9001:2015 QMS standard. Recognizing a need to transition from ISO 9001:2008 to
ISO 9001:2015 by September 2018, and in view of the lack of implementation of QMS in a
number of States and Territories, it is concluded that a considerable effort is still required from
Members to implement QMS and/or transition to the ISO 9001:2015 standard.
Competency and qualification of aeronautical meteorological personnel
WMO introduced standards for competency assessment of aeronautical meteorological

personnel (applicable since 1 December 2013) and qualification standards for aeronautical
meteorological forecasters (applicable on 1 December 2016). Almost 70% of States and
Territories have established a national competency programme for aeronautical meteorological

personnel. The frequency of the competency (re)assessment ranges typically between 1 and 5
years.
In approximately 50% of States and Territories, the AMSPs fully comply with WMO requirements
for the competency assessment for aeronautical meteorological observers and forecasters as
well as the qualification standards for aeronautical meteorological forecasters. Thirty percent of
Members indicate that this is in progress, 10% have not started and for 10% the situation is not
known due to non-response. As such, many Members face a regulatory risk because of non-
compliance with the competency assessment and qualification standards.
Funding mechanisms including cost recovery
In approximately 40% of States and Territories the aeronautical meteorological service

provision is wholly funded by the government budget, and in 20% the service provision is fully
funded via cost recovery mechanisms. For 30% of States and Territories the funding mechanism
is made up of combinations of government funding, cost recovery and commercial revenues.
Cost recovery for aeronautical meteorological service provision is applied in half of the States
and Territories.
Cost allocation and cost recovery for the provision of aeronautical meteorological service is
an issue for a number of Members. Best practices are identified as Members having a cost
allocation system and a cost recovery mechanism in place. The aeronautical meteorological
service provision is fully funded from either government budget or cost recovered via en-route
and terminal charges. If required, a fair share of the core infrastructure costs can be allocated
to the costs of the aeronautical meteorological service provision via the core cost mechanism.
Technical capacity/capability
Almost 90% of MWO AMSPs provide WS SIGMET in combination with or without other SIGMET
types or AIRMET. For 11% of Members this is unknown, or the Members do not have an MWO
responsibility, and therefore, do not issue SIGMETs. Regional differences exist as for example
some regions do not provide AIRMET, and in other regions tropical cyclones do not occur and as
such WC SIGMETs are not provided. One third of Members conduct cross-border coordination
for SIGMET production with MWOs in neighboring FIRs.
Almost 80% of AMO AMSPs utilize NWP output and nowcasting products (fully or to some
extent) in the forecasting process, including warnings, while a minority of approximately 10% of
AMSPs do not.
Almost two-thirds of Members conduct forecast verification for either TAF, AIRMET, SIGMET or
aerodrome warnings, and based on the response to the survey this figure is expected to go up
to 80% by 2019.
At the time of the survey only around one-third of Members use aircraft based observations
from AMDAR, ADS and or SSR Mode S in the aeronautical meteorological forecast production
process.
Challenges in service provision
New or emerging challenges amongst Members include meeting emerging technological

standards such as IWXXM and to fulfill ATM user needs for improved meteorological data and
services.
The top 10 priority challenges indicated by Members were: migration to XML, qualification of
AMF, QMS implementation/maintenance, maintenance and calibration of observing equipment,
automation of aerodrome observation, meeting demands for advanced products and services,
cost-recovery implementation, competency assessment, SIGMET quality, and advanced MET
information and services for terminal area.
Several Members identified other challenges such as competition from other providers (private
sector, commercial providers or regionalization) on aeronautical meteorological service
provision. Especially in Europe there is the challenge to comply with the cost reduction targets
of the Single European Sky, and at the same time comply with regulations and to contribute to
increased safety and capacity by improving meteorological services for air traffic management.
Report of the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine
Meteorology at its fifth session
Considering the decisions, resolutions and recommendations of the Joint WMO/IOC Technical
Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM) at its fifth session, contained
in Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology: Abridged
Final Report of the Fifth Session (WMO-No. 1208) (see annex to the present resolution),
Noting Resolutions 1–9 (JCOMM-5),
Approves:
(1) Recommendation 1 (JCOMM-5) – Review of relevant resolutions of the governing bodies

of the World Meteorological Organization and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission;
(2) Recommendation 15 (JCOMM-5) – Update of the Manual on Sea-level Measurement and

Interpretation, Volume V – Radar Gauges (IOC Manuals and Guides No. 14, Volume V;
JCOMM Technical Report No. 89; 2016);
Decides:
(1) To amend the Manual on Marine Meteorological Services (WMO-No. 558), Volume I –
Global Aspects, as detailed in Recommendation 12 (JCOMM-5) – Revised Manual on Marine
Meteorological Services (WMO-No. 558), Volume I – Global Aspects;
(2) To amend the Guide to Marine Meteorological Services (WMO-No. 471), as detailed in
Recommendation 13 (JCOMM-5) – Revised Guide to Marine Meteorological Services
(WMO-No. 471);
(1) To make any subsequent purely editorial amendments, ensure editorial consistency of
the relevant documents, and publish the updated Manual and Guide in four WMO official
languages (English, French, Spanish and Russian);
(2) To bring the above decisions to the attention of all concerned.
Note: The present resolution replaces Resolution 2 (EC-64), which is no longer in force.
Report of the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine
Meteorology at its fifth session
The Abridged Final Report of The Fifth Session of The Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for
Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (WMO-No. 1208, WMO-IOC/JCOMM-5/3) is at:
WMO-No. 1208, 2018
A brief summary of the major outcomes of JCOMM-5 are described in EC-70/INF. 5.3(1).
Marine and coastal services support for WMO Members
Noting the recommendations and scenario options for WMO to strengthen marine services, as
outlined in the Marine Services Assessment Report (submitted to the WMO Secretariat in March
2017 – see annex to the present resolution), which was prepared by an ad hoc working group to
carry out an assessment of marine services at WMO following the request by the Seventeenth
World Meteorological Congress that WMO needed to improve its role in marine services,
Noting also the summary recommendations for improving the roll-out of marine services to
WMO Members outlined in the report (see EC-70/INF. 5.3(2) for more information),
Having considered:
(1) Decision 16 (JCOMM-5) – Approval of the Services and Forecasting Systems Programme
Area Vision, new structure and governance (see EC-70/INF. 5.3(1)),
(2) Resolution 8 (JCOMM-5) – Services and Forecasting Systems Programme Area,
(3) Decision 40 (JCOMM-5) – Workplan and resources for the fifth session of the Joint WMO/
IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology, and in particular the
shortfall of dedicated human and financial resources to carry out the services activities
in the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology
(JCOMM) (for which Secretariat support and finance is provided by the WMO Marine
Meteorology and Ocean Affairs Division),
Recognizes the delivery of the IMO/WMO Worldwide Met-Ocean Information and Warning
Service (WWMIWS) and the formation of a Committee comprising all METAREA coordinators
to coordinate and improve the service delivery in accordance with International Maritime
Organization (IMO) and WMO service regulations;
Endorses the role of the WWMIWS Committee to coordinate a holistic approach to servicing
the metocean information requirements outlined in the IMO Polar Code for vessels operating in
polar waters, and to consider further alignment with service delivery programmes focused on
polar areas;
Recalling Resolution 6 (Cg-17) – Competence requirements for marine weather forecasters,
Considering Resolution 5 (JCOMM-5) – Management Committee of the Joint WMO/IOC

Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology, which tasked the JCOMM
Management Committee to include marine competencies in the JCOMM work activities and,
through the work of the Services and Forecasting Systems Programme Area and the WWMIWS
Committee (Decision 16 (JCOMM-5) – Approval of the Services and Forecasting Systems
Programme Area Vision, new structure and governance, Annex 1) to create guidance material
for Members to carry out marine weather competency assessments,
Decides:
(1) To support the request in the Marine Services Assessment Report to elevate the need for
dedicated focus for improving marine services at WMO and for WMO Members;
(2) To support the new enhanced future vision and direction of maritime safety services, and
the appointment of national marine services focal points within WMO Members (as outlined
in Resolution 8 (JCOMM-5)) through the provision of adequate human (Secretariat) and
financial resources (as outlined in Decision 40 (JCOMM-5));
Requests Members:
(1) To send nominations for the national marine services focal points, if they have not already
done so;
(2) To participate in any service delivery assessments and surveys sent by the WMO
Secretariat to assess the strengths and gaps in marine services for WMO Members;
(3) To develop competency assessment programmes for their marine weather forecasting
personnel and, for Members with responsibility to issue products for WWMIWS, to ensure
their forecasters are competent by 2023;
(4) To consider providing secondments to the WMO Marine Meteorology and Ocean Affairs
Division and extra financial resources to assist with strengthening marine and coastal
services for Members, especially in competencies and capacity development;
Requests the WMO co-president of JCOMM to consult with presidents of regional associations
to improve working relationships between JCOMM and regional association working groups on
marine services;
Requests the Secretary-General to enable improved communication to Members through their

national marine services focal points.
Marine Services Assessment Report
This report is the compilation of an assessment of marine services carried out between
February and December 2016. The full report is available in EC-70/INF. 5.3(2).
Future of the Coastal Inundation Forecasting Demonstration Project
Considering that the majority of the world population lives in coastal areas, many of which are
vulnerable to flooding,
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 6 (CHy-15) – The Flood Forecasting Initiative and the contribution of the
Commission for Hydrology to the Disaster Risk Management Programme, which requested
the president of the Commission for Hydrology (CHy), with the assistance of the
appropriate members of the CHy Advisory Working Group and the Open Panel of CHy
Experts, to coordinate together with the co-presidents of the Joint WMO/IOC Technical
Commission on Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM) a joint assessment of
the initial phase of the Coastal Inundation Forecasting Demonstration Project (CIFDP)
and, depending on the assessment results, to consider the desirability of developing a
governance structure and procedures that would transition CIFDP to a more sustainable
platform, for the strengthening of national multi-hazard early warning systems to address
flooding in coastal areas,
(2) Decision 17 (JCOMM-5) – Future of the Coastal Inundation Forecasting Demonstration

Project, which approved the collaboration of the JCOMM Management Committee with CHy,
with support from the WMO Secretariat, to coordinate a joint independent assessment of
CIFDP, as stipulated in Resolution 6 (CHy-15), with the objectives detailed in (1) (see EC-
70/INF. 5.3(1) for more information),
(3) Resolution 1 (EC-70) – Consolidated approach to severe weather forecasting, which decided
that an independent assessment should be made of the three initiatives CIFDP, the Flash
Flood Guidance System (FFGS) and the Severe Weather Forecasting Demonstration Project
(SWFDP),
Noting that the results of the proposed assessment for CIFDP, and the overall assessment
for the combined CIFDP, FFGS and SWFDP activities and any recommended future governance
structure arrangements will be reported to the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress in
2019,
Noting also the need for the independent reviews of the initiatives CIFDP, FFGS and SWFDP
to be made available to the Flood Forecasting Initiative Advisory Group (FFI-AG) to allow its
members’ full consideration prior to Congress (see Resolution 16 (EC-70) – Guidance on ongoing
hydrology and water resources initiatives) so that, through its Chairperson, a coherent strategy
can be reported for the sustainable and efficient services for the provision of flood forecasting
guidance and improved multi-hazard early warning systems (MHEWS) for Members,
Acknowledging that the CIFDP sub-projects are mainly funded through extrabudgetary
resources and that resource mobilization for the ongoing sub-projects and their sustainability
and synergies with other relevant projects and activities, such as FFGS and SWFDP, has always
been a challenge, both for funding and in terms of having adequate human resources for
coordination,
Endorses the recommendations of FFI-AG (see Resolution 16 (EC-70)), including the review of
CIFDP and other activities proposed, as they will improve the flood forecasting capabilities of
WMO Members and thus contribute to establishing a solid foundation for MHEWS in countries;
Requests the Secretary-General to provide financial support for the CIFDP assessment so that
it can be completed in time for the results to be considered within the overall CIFDP, FFGS and
SWFDP recommendations that will be reported by the FFI-AG Chairperson to Congress.
Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission/WMO/Permanent Commission for the

South Pacific collaboration on the investigations of El Niño
Recalling Resolution 3 (EC-XLVIII) – The Joint IOC/WMO/CPPS Working Group on the

Investigations of El Niño, and its terms of reference outlined in the annex to the resolution,
Recognizing the objectives of the Joint IOC/WMO/CPPS Working Group as set out in the annex
to Resolution 3 (EC‑XLVIII),
Noting that the Executive Council at its sixtieth session expressed its continued support for
the Working Group and called for a review of its terms of reference (Executive Council Sixtieth
Session: Abridged Final Report with Resolutions (WMO-No. 1032), 3.2.3.3),
Noting also that considerable time has lapsed since the last meeting of the Working Group
(eleventh session) held in 2007,
Considering that investigations of El Niño, as well as the related information services and
socioeconomic impacts, are being carried out by WMO under various programmes and activities,
including those within the Commissions for Climatology (CCl) and for Basic Systems (CBS), and
jointly with the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) through the Joint WMO/
IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM), the Global
Climate Observing System (GCOS), the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS), the
Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS), and the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP),
and that these have gained momentum since 2007,
Decides:
(1) That the work outlined in the terms of reference for the Working Group, particularly on
collaboration with IOC and the Permanent Commission for the South Pacific (CPPS), should
be updated and integrated into the relevant activities of JCOMM;
(2) Not to keep in force Resolution 3 (EC-XLVIII);
Requests the co-presidents of JCOMM to liaise with CBS, CCl, GCOS, GFCS, GOOS, WCRP and
any other relevant WMO and joint WMO/IOC entities contributing to knowledge and information
about the El Niño phenomena and the associated capacity development activities;
Encourages CPPS to continue its active collaboration with WMO and IOC through JCOMM, to
provide relevant contributions to the investigations on El Niño;
Invites IOC, as the principal secretariat in the IOC/WMO/CPPS partnership, to initiate the
process to close the joint Working Group.
Note: The present resolution replaces Resolution 3 (EC-XLVIII), which is no longer in force.
Recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology at its seventeenth

session
Having considered Commission for Agricultural Meteorology: Abridged Final Report of the
Seventeenth Session (WMO‑No. 1217),
Decides to endorse the report and to take action on the recommendations in it as follows:
(1) Recommendation 1 (CAgM-17) – Drought and desertification
(b) Invites Members:
(i) To encourage the open sharing of agricultural, meteorological and hydrological

data among national and regional ministries and organizations to improve
drought-related decision-making and support the development of drought early
warning systems;
(ii) To support the Secretary-General in the further implementation of the

recommendations of United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
(UNCCD);
(iii) To implement as appropriate the activities of the Integrated Drought

Management Programme (IDMP) with regards to the three pillars of integrated
drought management: drought monitoring and early warning systems, drought
vulnerability and impact assessments, and drought preparedness;
(c) Requests the Secretary-General:
(i) To continue collaboration with UNCCD and other organizations in the actions of
implementation of the Drought Management Centre for Southeastern Europe and
to explore the establishment of similar centres in other regions;
(ii) To continue collaboration with UNCCD, FAO and the United Nations Convention
on Biological Diversity on the implementation of the Integrated Drought
Management Programme;
(iii) To ensure effective coordination with WMO drought activities with regards to
IDMP, the FAO Framework on Water Scarcity in Agriculture, the UNCCD Drought
Initiative and the Group on Earth Observations Global Agricultural Monitoring;
(d) Requests all relevant technical commissions, programmes and regional associations
to liaise with the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology (CAgM) and IDMP experts
and establish synergies with CAgM and IDMP with regards to drought monitoring and
early warning systems, drought vulnerability and impact assessments, and drought
preparedness especially with regards to global multi-hazard alerting systems, the
Hydrological Status and Outlook System, and the cataloguing of extreme weather,
water and climate events;
(2) Recommendation 2 (CAgM-17) – Status and progress made in agricultural

meteorology

(b) Invites Members to ensure that their Country Profile Database (CPDB) focal points
update CPDB on issues related to agricultural meteorology and drought;
(3) Recommendation 3 (CAgM-17) – Training and education in agricultural

meteorology
(b) Requests the Secretary-General to closely liaise with WMO Regional Training Centres
and specialized centres on the provision and content of education, training courses
and tools in agricultural meteorology to strengthen and expand training programmes
in that discipline to ensure adequate response to identified training requirements
for agricultural meteorologists and understanding of the potential role of the Global
Centres of Excellence in Agricultural Meteorology;
(4) Recommendation 4 (CAgM-17) – Review of relevant resolutions of the WMO

governing bodies
Takes into account this recommendation when dealing with agenda item 20 of the present
session;
(5) Recommendation 5 (CAgM-17) – Continuation and strengthening of the work of

the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology
Agrees to take into account the ongoing work and planned deliverables of the Commission
for Agricultural Meteorology in the ongoing WMO governance review to ensure their
continuity is incorporated into the governance review outcomes.
Amendments to Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume I, Part V
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 4 (Cg-17) – Report of the extraordinary session (2014) of the Commission
for Basic Systems relevant to Technical Regulations concerning public weather services
competencies,
(2) Resolution 6 (Cg-17) – Competence requirements for marine weather forecasters,
(3) Resolution 32 (Cg-17) – Report of the extraordinary session (2014) of the Commission for
Basic Systems relevant to Technical Regulations concerning the Global Telecommunication
System, data management and the WMO Information System,
(4) Recommendation 10 (CCl-17) – Human resource development through implementation of

competencies for provision of climate services,
Noting:
(1) The decision of the Commission for Basic Systems Management Group at its eighteenth
session (Geneva, 29 March 2018) to endorse the top-level competencies for public weather
services delivery and its recommendation that consideration of these should be placed on
the agenda of the World Meteorological Congress,
(2) The decision of the Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation Management
Group at its fifteenth session (Geneva, 26–29 March 2018) endorsing the four sets of
competencies for observations, instrumentation, calibration, and network and programme
management, and requesting the WMO Secretariat to have them included in the Guide to
Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO-No. 8) as a new chapter
on competencies and to sumit them to the Education and Training Office to be included in
WMO Technical Regulations,
Considering that the top-level competencies, together with the entire revised public weather
service delivery competency frameworks, as presented in Annex 1, have been revised to be
consistent with the newly published Guide to Competency (WMO-No. 1205) and are designed to
facilitate clear testing of competency levels among personnel engaged in work associated with
the provision of public weather services,
Endorses the fundamental WMO competency requirements for public weather forecasters as
contained in Annex 1 to the present resolution;
Approves the proposed amendments to Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume I –

General Meteorological Standards and Recommended Practices, Part V, as contained in Annex 2
to the present resolution;
Requests the Secretary-General to arrange for the introduction of the amendments to

Technical Regulations, Volume I, Part V, and to make any necessary editorial modifications.
Annex 1 to Resolution 15 (EC-70)
Fundamental WMO competency requirements for public weather forecasters
The competency requirements for the work of personnel engaged in operational forecasting2
can be divided into five top level competencies, taking into consideration the conditions (a) to
(c) below:
(a) The nationally-defined PWS3 areas of responsibility;
(b) Meteorological and hydrological impacts on society;
(c) Meteorological and hydrological user requirements, local procedures and priorities.
A PWS Forecaster should have successfully completed the BIP-M4 (as defined in the revised
WMO-No. 49, Volume I). Taking into account conditions (a) to (c) above, they should also be
competent to perform the tasks defined through the five top level competencies, as follows:
(1) Analyse and continually monitor the evolving meteorological and/or hydrological situation;
(2) Forecast meteorological and hydrological phenomena and parameters;
(3) Warn of hazardous meteorological and hydrological phenomena;
(4) Communicate meteorological and hydrological information to internal and external users;
2
Personnel engaged in operational forecasting may work across a variety of specializations including aviation,
marine and public weather services.
3
For the purpose of forecaster competencies the term PWS forecasters is used to describe forecasters responsible
for the preparation and delivery of public weather forecasts and warnings.
4
BIP-M: Basic Instruction Package for Meteorologists
(5) Ensure the quality of meteorological and hydrological information and services.
Each of these top-level competencies is expanded into performance criteria that are expressed
and structured in such a manner as to facilitate the clear application of an assessment
procedure. The competencies are built upon a range of Enabling Skills (such as skills and
knowledge in Numerical Weather Prediction) and also Transferrable Skills (workplace skills which
are not exclusive to meteorology, such as problem-solving and people-management). Each top-
level competency is also associated with a range of background knowledge and skills which are
essential to the discharge of the defined duties.
1. Analyse and continually monitor the evolving meteorological and/or hydrological

situation
1.1 Competency description
Observations and forecasts of meteorological/hydrological parameters and significant

meteorological/hydrological phenomena are continuously analysed and monitored to determine
the need for issuance, cancellation or amendment/update of forecasts and warnings according
to documented thresholds, protocols and regulations.
1.2 Performance Criteria
(a) Analyse, interpret and diagnose data and information to identify meteorological/
hydrological features pertinent to the area of forecast responsibility;
(b) Monitor meteorological/hydrological parameters and evolving significant meteorological/

hydrological phenomena and validate current forecasts and warnings based on these
parameters;
(c) Evaluate the need for amendments to forecasts and updates of warnings against
documented criteria and thresholds;
(d) Monitor information related to impacts of recent meteorological and hydrological events.
1.3 Background knowledge and skills
(a) Awareness of the importance of meteorological and hydrological services, and an

understanding of the effects of forecasts and warnings on users and decision makers, in
particular for public safety;
(b) An understanding of the key elements of synoptic, dynamical, and physical meteorology
and core analytical/diagnostic skills at least to the level of a BIP-M;
(c) Application of the theory, methods and practices of meteorological and/or hydrological
analysis and diagnosis;
(d) An ability to visualize/conceptualize meteorological and/or hydrological information in

multiple dimensions (spatial, temporal);
(e) An appreciation of the influence of topography, land cover, and

(if relevant) bodies of water and/or snow fields on local meteorology;
(f) Interpretation of in-situ and remote-sensed observations and data;
(g) Understanding of the characteristics of meteorological and/or hydrological sensors and

instruments;
(h) Familiarity with the acquisition, processing and assimilation of meteorological and/or
hydrological data, including quality control;
(i) Understanding of procedures, standards and technical regulations relating to observations

and to forecast and warning products.
2. Forecast meteorological and hydrological phenomena and parameters
Forecasts of meteorological and/or hydrological parameters and phenomena are prepared and
issued in accordance with documented requirements, priorities and deadlines.
(a) Forecast meteorological/hydrological phenomena and parameters as required, using

appropriate tools and including forecast uncertainties;
(b) Ensure that forecasts are prepared and issued in accordance with national or regional
practices, relevant codes and technical regulations on content, accuracy and timeliness;
(c) Ensure, insofar as practicable, that forecasts of meteorological/hydrological parameters

and phenomena are consistent (spatially and temporally) across boundaries of the area of
responsibility;
(d) Monitor forecasts issued for other regions, and liaise with adjacent regions as required.
(a) Core diagnostic and prognostic skills to a BIP-M level;
(b) Knowledge of methods used in Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) and other forecast
applications;
(c) Knowledge of the strengths, limitations and verification outputs of the NWP models used in
the forecast office, and of forecast adjustments required to accommodate these;
(d) Knowledge of statistical approaches applicable to meteorological and hydrological

information;
(e) Knowledge of probabilistic approaches to forecasting, such as those available through

ensemble prediction systems;
(f) Critical comparison of a variety of forecast models, interpretation of observational data

and climatological data, and synthesis of this information to make a reasoned estimate of
the most likely evolution of the weather, of alternative evolutions, and of the uncertainties
associated with each;
(g) Interpretation of model outputs at different time ranges;
(h) Judgement in determining which observational, model, contextual and impact information
is most relevant, especially in very short range forecasting;
(i) Knowledge of the potential impacts of meteorological and hydrological events on users and
their decision-making processes.
3. Warn of hazardous meteorological and hydrological phenomena
Warnings are issued in a timely manner when hazardous meteorological and/or hydrological
conditions are expected to occur, or when parameters are expected to reach documented
threshold values or generate significant impacts, and updated or cancelled according to
documented warning criteria.
(a) Forecast hazardous meteorological/hydrological phenomena, including spatial extent,

onset/cessation, duration, intensity and temporal variations;
(b) Ensure that warnings are prepared and issued in accordance with national protocols for
hazardous phenomena and their impacts;
(c) Ensure insofar as practicable, that warnings of hazardous meteorological/hydrological

phenomena are consistent (spatially and temporally) across boundaries of the area of
responsibility;
(d) Monitor warnings issued for other regions, and liaise with adjacent regions as required;
(e) Maintain awareness of the impacts of hazardous meteorological/hydrological phenomena

which are the subject of warnings and notifications.
(a) Knowledge of the specific product preparation and dissemination systems used in the
forecast office;
(b) Knowledge and skill in using warning production tools;
(c) Knowledge of the policies, procedures and criteria for issuing warnings;
(d) Knowledge of the potential impacts of meteorological and hydrological events on users and
their decision-making processes.
4. Communicate meteorological and hydrological information and potential impacts

to internal and external users
User requirements are fully understood and are addressed by communicating concise and
complete forecasts and warnings in a manner that can be clearly understood by users.
(a) Ensure that all forecast and warnings are disseminated through the authorized
communication means and channels to designated user groups as specified in relevant
standard operating procedures;
(b) Explain meteorological/hydrological data and information, including uncertainties where

required;
(c) Deliver briefings and provide consultation to meet specific user needs as required.
(a) Standards, procedures and dissemination methods for the presentation of forecast and
warning information to the public across all relevant media, including impact information as
required;
(b) Knowledge of protocols for presenting warning information to emergency management

partners, including information on likely impacts and mitigation activities if relevant;
(c) An awareness of user’s needs for, and use of, meteorological and/or hydrological
information;
(d) An awareness of the application of meteorology and hydrology to human activities and
specific users.
5. Ensure the quality of meteorological and hydrological information and services
The quality of meteorological and hydrological forecasts, warnings and related products
is maintained, through the application of quality management systems processes where
appropriate.
(a) Apply the organization's quality management system and procedures;
(b) Validate meteorological and hydrological data, products, forecasts and warnings
(timeliness, completeness, accuracy);
(c) Assess the impacts of known error characteristics (bias, achievable accuracy of
observations and sensing methods) ;
(d) Monitor the functioning of operational systems and take contingency actions where
appropriate;
(e) Contribute to case studies and post reviews as required, including the assimilation of user
feedback and impact information;
(f) Mentor junior colleagues and provide support and advice as required.
(a) Knowledge of standard operating procedures and also contingency procedures;
(b) Knowledge of techniques and technology in common use in forecast offices;
(c) Knowledge of validation and verification procedures relevant to meteorological and

hydrological forecasts and warnings;
(d) Understanding methods used in developing case studies and feedback to improve the
quality of forecasts and warnings.
Competency requirements for weather broadcasters and communicators
These competency requirements are for personnel who specialize in media work and routinely
present weather information on radio or television, prepare material for weather websites and/
or social media, conduct media liaison and are active in education/outreach. They build upon,
and should be read in conjunction with the fundamental WMO competency requirements for
personnel engaged in operational forecasting, although it is recognized that some people
engaged in these activities may not come from a forecasting background.
The competency requirements for the work of personnel engaged in weather broadcasting and
communication can be divided into four top level competencies. Taking into consideration the
conditions (a) to (c) below:
(a) The geographical areas of responsibility;
Weather broadcasters and communicators should be able to perform the work indicated in the
top level competencies below:
(a) Maintain awareness of the evolving meteorological and/or hydrological situation, updated
forecasts and warnings, and impacts of anticipated conditions;
(b) Assemble meteorological and hydrological information that meet user needs for
communication and delivery;
(c) Communicate meteorological and hydrological information and potential impacts via
broadcast and other media;
(d) Ensure the quality of meteorological and hydrological information and services.
and structured in such a manner as to facilitate the clear application of assessment procedures.
The competencies are built upon a range of Enabling Skills (such as skills and knowledge in
Numerical Weather Prediction) and also Transferrable Skills (workplace skills which are not
exclusive to meteorology, such as problem-solving and people-management). Each top-level
competency is also associated with a range of background knowledge and skills which are
1. Maintain awareness of the evolving meteorological and/or hydrological situation,

updated forecasts and warnings, and impacts of anticipated conditions
Observations, forecasts, warnings and impacts of meteorological/hydrological parameters and

significant meteorological/hydrological phenomena are continuously monitored to inform the
content of weather broadcasts, disseminated products, briefings and other communications.
(a) Monitor meteorological/hydrological parameters and evolving significant meteorological/

hydrological phenomena;
(b) Monitor amendments to forecasts and updates of warnings;
(c) Monitor information related to impacts of recent meteorological and hydrological events.
(a) An understanding of the key elements of synoptic, dynamical, and physical meteorology;
(b) An appreciation of the influence of topography, land cover, and (if relevant) bodies of water
and/or snow fields on local meteorology;
(c) Interpretation of in-situ and remote-sensed observations and data;
(d) Knowledge of the routine dissemination schedule of forecasts and warnings from the
meteorological service provider;
(e) Knowledge of the thresholds and protocols associated with the issue of weather warnings
by the relevant NMHSs;
(f) Knowledge and understanding of the likely impacts on society of hazardous meteorological
and hydrological phenomena.
2. Assemble meteorological and hydrological information that meet user needs for
communication and delivery
Observations, forecasts, warnings and impacts of meteorological/hydrological parameters

and significant meteorological/hydrological phenomena are assembled and synthesized into
coherent narratives and products for dissemination to users.
(a) Articulate the weather story in a manner appropriate to the meteorological/hydrological

situation, user expectations and needs;
(b) Articulate the weather story in a manner appropriate to the communications medium
employed;
(c) Prepare graphics that visually support the communication of the meteorological/
hydrological story and situation;
(d) Apply routine production protocols appropriate to the service provision environment.
(a) Knowledge of the range of users / audience who will access the weather communication;
(b) Appreciation of the strengths and weaknesses of the communication medium employed;
(c) Skills in oral and written language as appropriate to the communication medium employed;
(d) Knowledge of, and skills, in the operation of the weather graphics software or other IT
facilities used to prepare graphical images and IT related media for the communication of
meteorological and hydrological information;
(e) Knowledge of the function and operation of the different technological resources (PCs,
servers, mixers, amplifiers, cameras etc.) commonly employed in weather broadcasting,
where relevant.

via broadcast and other media.
Observations, forecasts, warnings and impacts of meteorological/hydrological parameters and

significant meteorological/hydrological phenomena are disseminated to users in a manner
appropriate to the communications medium and to the needs of users.
(a) Identify the key points in a weather story and/or high impact meteorological/hydrological
hazards and develop these into a coherent narrative or presentation;
(b) Explain and communicate the scope and limitations of forecasts and warnings, including
the concept of forecast uncertainty, to users;
(c) Present warnings of meteorological and hydrological hazards, including information on

possible mitigating actions where appropriate;
(d) Implement the “Single Authoritative Voice” concept in respect to warnings of severe
weather and other public safety messages;
(e) Create and deliver presentations on meteorological and hydrological topics to external
agencies and to the public;
(f) Deliver meteorological and hydrological information in accordance with broadcast

schedules and/or other appropriate media protocols;
(g) Develop and present new graphical representations of meteorological and hydrological
information in alignment with editorial policy.
(a) Knowledge of the likely impact of upcoming meteorological and hydrological events at
different time scales, and skill in judging the relative importance of these;
(b) Knowledge of the likely uncertainty attached to forecasts at different time scales;
(c) Knowledge and understanding of the likely impacts on society of hazardous meteorological
and hydrological phenomena;
(d) Knowledge of the policies, procedures and criteria for issuing warnings;
(e) Knowledge of the mitigating actions associated with the likely impacts of hazardous
meteorological and hydrological phenomena;
(f) Knowledge of the authoritative sources of meteorological, hydrological, impact and

mitigating information relevant to hazardous phenomena;
(g) Skill in the use of presentation and visualization software to support lectures, seminars and
other public engagements;
(h) Knowledge of broadcast schedules, deadlines and other appropriate media protocols.
The quality of meteorological and hydrological broadcasts and other communication products is
maintained, by the application of approved quality management processes where appropriate.
(b) Apply agreed editorial policy to weather broadcasting and other meteorological and
hydrological communications;
(c) Ensure, insofar as possible, that all meteorological and hydrological information available to
users is consistent, current and up-to-date;
(d) Monitor and assess the effectiveness of the communication of meteorological and
hydrological information through user-based metrics;
(e) Develop improvements in the communication of meteorological and hydrological

information based on user feedback;
(f) Mentor junior colleagues and provide support and advice as required.
(a) Knowledge of standard operating procedures;
(b) Knowledge of contingency procedures appropriate to system failure;
(c) Knowledge of the editorial policy relevant to weather broadcasting and other
meteorological and hydrological communications;
(d) Knowledge of techniques and technology commonly used in the dissemination of

(e) Knowledge of the various user-based metrics relevant to the assessment of the
effectiveness of communication of meteorological and hydrological information.
Competency requirements for persons engaged in the development and delivery of

meteorological and hydrological products and services
These competency requirements are primarily aimed at personnel who are engaged in the
area of innovation, improvement, and delivery of meteorological and hydrological services and
products. They should be read in conjunction with the competency requirements for personnel
engaged in operational forecasting, although it is recognized that many people engaged in these
aspects of work may not come from a forecasting background.
These competency requirements are divided into four top level competencies. Taking into
consideration the conditions (a) to (c) below:
(a) The nationally-defined PWS areas of responsibility;
Persons engaged in the development and delivery of meteorological and hydrological products
and service should be competent to perform the tasks defined through the four top level
competencies, as follows:
(1) Maintain awareness of developments in technology, and science which facilitate the
development and improvement of products and services to meet user requirements;
(2) Develop applications, products and services that meet user requirements;
(3) Develop and manage relationships with users and other stakeholders, in particular through
providing documentation and delivering training on new products and services;
1. Maintain awareness of developments in technology and science which facilitate

the development and improvement of services and products to meet user
requirements.
The needs of users for products based on meteorological and hydrological information is
monitored, as are the available technologies and techniques relevant to the development of
products and services and their dissemination.
(a) Maintain awareness of users' current and future requirements for meteorological and
hydrological products and services;
(b) Maintain awareness of scientific developments supporting the development and

improvement of meteorological and hydrological products and services;
(c) Maintain awareness of developments in communication and information technologies,

standards and protocols relevant to the creation and dissemination of meteorological and
hydrological products and services.
(a) An understanding of the key elements of synoptic, dynamical, and physical meteorology;
(b) Knowledge of the range of available in-situ and remote-sensed observations and data;
(c) Knowledge of meteorological and hydrological information available through Numerical

Weather Prediction, statistical outputs and other appropriate sources, and of their potential
value for users;
(d) Knowledge of the relevant technologies available for the development of products based on
meteorological and hydrological information, and their dissemination.
2. Develop applications, products and services that meet user requirements.
Products and services based on meteorological and hydrological information are developed and
improved in line with the needs of users and the capabilities of the available technologies and
techniques.
(a) Develop, test and implement applications and products, including relevant uncertainties, in
support of user-focused services;
(b) Develop applications for the visualization and display of meteorological and hydrological
information, including forecast uncertainty;
(c) Optimise systems used to produce and disseminate meteorological and hydrological
products and services;
(d) Implement changes to applications, products and services consequent on evolving user
needs and/or changing technologies;
(e) Document applications and products and their implementation processes to aid users and
support maintenance and continuity of service.
(a) Knowledge of the range of users / audience who will access the meteorological and
hydrological products, and of their requirements;
(b) Knowledge of statistical methods and techniques commonly used in processing and
visualizing meteorological and hydrological information;
(c) Knowledge of the characteristics and capabilities of visualization and display systems used
for meteorological and hydrological information;
(d) Knowledge of probabilistic approaches to forecasting and representation (including

especially graphical representation) of uncertainty in forecast products, such as those
based on ensemble systems;
(e) Knowledge of the characteristics and capabilities of the dissemination media employed;
(f) Knowledge of and skill in the operation of IT facilities used to prepare graphical images for
the communication of meteorological and hydrological information;
(g) Knowledge of procedures for documenting and keeping record of software applications
development.
3. Develop and manage relationships with users and other stakeholders, in

particular through providing documentation and delivering training on new
products and services.
Relationships with users are developed and maintained to support the ready identification of
user needs and requirements and changes to these over time. Relationships with users are
formalized through appropriate agreements where necessary.
(a) Participate in the assessment of the needs of users, in collaboration with relevant experts;
(b) Establish and maintain working relationships at operational and technical levels with users
and other stakeholders;
(c) Develop partnership agreements at operational and technical levels with users and other
stakeholders;
(d) Develop and make available adequate background documentation on new products and
services;
(e) Develop and deliver training to users and stakeholders on products and services as
required.
(a) Knowledge of the methodologies for the understanding and development of user
requirements;
(b) Knowledge of the methodologies for the development of partnerships, memoranda of

understanding, service level agreements etc. with users of meteorological and hydrological
information and products;
(c) Understanding of the operational systems and working priorities of relevant users;
(d) Knowledge of the training methods and techniques appropriate to users and other
stakeholders;
(e) Understanding of the vulnerabilities of various users and how these may be impacted by
meteorological and hydrological events.
The quality of products and services based on meteorological and hydrological information
is maintained, through the application of quality management systems processes where
appropriate.
(b) Support the implementation and ongoing validation of automated meteorological and
hydrological products and services;
(c) Support training in the access, use and interpretation of products and applications related
to meteorological and hydrological services.
(a) Knowledge of standard operating procedures;
(b) Knowledge of contingency procedures appropriate to system failure;
(c) Knowledge of techniques and technology commonly used in the dissemination of

(d) Knowledge of the various user-based metrics relevant to the accessibility and
understanding of meteorological and hydrological information through products and
applications;
(e) Knowledge of procedures for documenting and keeping record of software applications
development;
(f) Knowledge of appropriate methods and techniques for user training.
Competency requirements for pws advisors supporting disaster prevention and

mitigation and other user activities
These competency requirements are for PWS advisors who work in the area of Disaster
Prevention and Mitigation (DPM) and engagement with the Emergency Management (EM)
community and other relevant users (such as those involved in health, transportation, energy,
food safety). They build upon, and should be read in conjunction with, the fundamental WMO
competency requirements for personnel engaged in operational forecasting, although it is
recognized that some people engaged in liaison and outreach in EM may not come from a
forecasting background. In such cases, the PWS Advisor needs to work closely with operational
forecasters to develop the products and services indicated in the following sections, taking into
consideration the conditions (a) to (c) below:
(a) The nationally-defined PWS areas of responsibility;
(c) Meteorological and hydrological societal requirements, local procedures and priorities.
A PWS Advisor should be able to perform the work (in close association with the PWS forecaster
if need be) indicated by the five top level competencies below:
(1) Monitor continually the evolving meteorological and/or hydrological situation, updated
(2) Develop and adopt procedures and services to meet user needs and facilitate impact
assessments;
(3) Develop and manage relationships with DPM users and other stakeholders;
(4) Communicate meteorological and/or hydrological information and potential impacts to

internal and external users and engage in outreach activities;
1. Monitor continually the evolving meteorological and/or hydrological situation,

updated forecasts and warnings, and impacts of anticipated conditions.
Observations and forecasts of meteorological/hydrological parameters and significant

meteorological/hydrological phenomena are continuously analysed and monitored, together
with amendments/updates of forecasts and warnings, and assessments of the likely impacts of
anticipated conditions are developed and updated as required.
(a) Monitor meteorological/hydrological parameters and evolving significant meteorological/

hydrological phenomena, and validate current forecast and warnings based on these
parameters;
(b) Monitor information relating to impacts of meteorological and hydrological events.
(a) An understanding of the key elements of synoptic, dynamical, and physical meteorology
and core analytical/diagnostic skills;
(b) Application of the theory, methods and practices of meteorological and/or hydrological
analysis and diagnosis;
(c) The ability to visualize/conceptualize meteorological and/or hydrological information in

multiple dimensions (spatial, temporal);
(d) The appreciation of the influence of topography, land cover, and

(if relevant) bodies of water and/or snow fields on local meteorology;
(e) Interpretation of in-situ and remote-sensed observations and data;
(f) Understanding of the characteristics of meteorological and hydrological sensors and

instruments;
(g) Familiarity with the acquisition, processing and assimilation of meteorological and
hydrological data, including quality control;
(h) Understanding of procedures, standards and technical regulations regarding observations

and forecast products;
(i) Understanding of sector specific activities and vulnerabilities impacted by meteorological

and hydrological events.
2. Develop procedures and services to meet user needs and facilitate impact
assessments.
Procedures and services which facilitate impact assessment based on meteorological and
hydrological information are developed and improved in line with the needs of users, making full
use of impact modelling and other techniques where these are available
(a) Identify the meteorological and/or hydrological information requirements of the disaster
management and civil protection community, and other users as required;
(b) Tailor weather warning services for emergency management decision-makers and other
users;
(c) Ensure that warning dissemination schedules and related services meet the decision-
making needs of emergency managers and other users;
(d) Contribute to the development of very short-range forecasting and nowcasting services
tailored to the emergency management community;
(e) Contribute to the development of probabilistic forecast products tailored to the needs of
disaster managers and other users;
(f) Contribute to the development of impact-based forecast and warning products;
(g) Apply new technology and scientific research in contributing to the development of Multi-
Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS).
(a) Knowledge of meteorological and hydrological information, products and services available
to support disaster management, the civil protection community and other users;
(b) Knowledge of the methodologies for the understanding and development of user
requirements;
(c) Knowledge of risk assessments and how they apply to various sectors;
(d) An understanding of how meteorological and hydrological risks may have an impact of
various sectors as a function of vulnerability and exposure factors;
(e) Skill in adapting usual meteorological and hydrological products and services into value-
added services for disaster management and other users;
(f) Knowledge of the strengths and limitations of NWP models;
(g) Knowledge of developments and innovations in Numerical Weather Prediction and how
these may apply to meteorological and hydrological impact-based services.
3. Develop and manage relationships with DPM users and other stakeholders.
Relationships with users in the Emergency Management and related communities are developed
and maintained to support the ready identification of user needs and requirements and changes
to these over time. Relationships with users are formalized through appropriate agreements
where necessary.
(a) Establish and maintain working relationships at strategic, operational and technical levels
with the emergency management community;
(b) Develop and implement partnership agreements at operational and technical levels with
relevant agencies;
(c) Build and maintain relationships with the media to facilitate communication of warnings and
information prior to, during and after high impact meteorological and hydrological events;
(d) Build and maintain relationships between the NMHS and relevant agencies to improve
emergency planning, preparedness, and response to high impact meteorological and
hydrological events, including specific urban needs where appropriate;
(e) Contribute to the development of response advice and call-to-action statements based
on the potential impact of hazards, in close coordination with relevant agencies as
appropriate;
(f) Participate in the assessment of the socioeconomic impact of meteorological and

hydrological events, in collaboration with relevant experts.
(a) Knowledge of the methodologies for the development of partnerships and memoranda of
understanding;
(b) Knowledge of meteorological and hydrological information, products and services available
to support disaster management, the civil protection community and other users;
(c) Understanding of the priorities and operational systems of relevant agencies;
(d) Understanding of the principles of communication relating to the development of advice

and statements addressing potential impacts of hazards;
(e) Understanding of the vulnerabilities of various sectors and how these may be impacted by
meteorological and hydrological events.

to internal and external users and engage in outreach activities.
User requirements are fully understood and are addressed by communicating concise and
relevant meteorological information and impact assessments in a manner that can be clearly
understood by users. Preparedness of user communities is addressed through training and
other outreach initiatives
(a) Contribute to dissemination of warning information through utilization of current and

emerging communication technologies;
(b) Communicate meteorological and hydrological information to users, in particular disaster

management decision-makers and media, including the scope and limitations of forecasts
and warnings, the concept of forecast uncertainty, and information on potential impacts;
(c) Contribute to the development of a communication strategy to ensure credibility of, and
effective response to, warnings of high impact meteorological and hydrological events;
(d) Promote community awareness and preparedness for high impact meteorological and
hydrological events through public education and outreach.
(a) Knowledge of protocols for presenting and communicating warning information to

emergency management partners and media, including information on likely impacts and
mitigation activities if relevant;
(b) Knowledge of standards, procedures and dissemination platforms for the presentation of
forecast and warning information to end users across all relevant media, including impact
information as required;
(c) Knowledge of the authoritative sources of meteorological, hydrological, impact and

mitigating information relevant to hazardous phenomena;
(d) An awareness of the application of meteorology and/or hydrology to human activities and
to specific users;
(e) An awareness of user’s needs for, and use of, meteorological and/or hydrological
information;
(f) Awareness of social science research and findings relevant to the communication of
warnings and impact-based meteorological and/or hydrological information;
(g) An appreciation of the strengths and weaknesses of the communication media employed.
5. Ensure the quality of information, services and procedures.
The quality of meteorological and hydrological forecasts, warnings, impact assessments,

and related products is maintained, through the application of quality management systems
processes where appropriate.
(b) Monitor and assess the effectiveness of warnings of high impact meteorological and
hydrological events through user-based feedback;
(c) Work with disaster management agencies and others to strengthen the role of NMHSs as
the “Single Authoritative Voice” for warnings of high impact meteorological and hydrological
events;
(d) Contribute to the development of documentation and archiving systems for meteorological
and hydrological hazard and impact data, including quality assurance and data
management;
(e) Collaborate with disaster management agencies and others in the development of post-
events assessments of high impact meteorological and hydrological events;
(f) Contribute to outreach and training initiatives particularly those relevant to DPM activities.
(a) Knowledge of quality management system processes;
(b) Knowledge of methodologies for the creation, delivery and assessment of user-feedback
surveys;
(c) Knowledge of documentation and archiving systems protocols;
(d) Knowledge of verification processes;
(e) Knowledge of operating and contingency procedures of NMHS and relevant agencies;
(f) Understanding metrics and methods used in developing post assessments/case studies and
verification.
References
– Resolution 13 (EC-69) Amendment to the Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume I –

General Meteorological Standards and Recommended Practices, Public Weather Services
provisions.
– Joint Meeting of the Commission for Basic Systems Open Programme Area Group on
Public Weather Service Delivery (CBS/OPAG-PWSD) Expert Teams (ETs) on Impact of
Multi-Hazard Prediction And Communication (ET/IMPACT), and on Services and Products
Innovation and Improvement (ET/SPII), Beijing, China, 2017.
Amendments to Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume I, Part V
PART V. QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES OF PERSONNEL INVOLVED IN THE

PROVISION OF METEOROLOGICAL, HYDROLOGICAL AND CLIMATOLOGICAL SERVICES
1. QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES
1.1 General
1.1.1 The qualifications and competencies required of personnel involved in the provision of
(operational) meteorological, hydrological, climatological and/or related services should be as
described below, inestablished by Members in accordance with sections 1.2–1.51.8.
Notes:
1. A specific qualification is typically acquired once and remains valid throughout a person’s
career.
2. Qualifications and competencies for personnel in additional service areas will be developed
in due course and subsequently included in this chapter.
1.1.2 Members should keep records of the qualifications of all personnel involved in the
provision of (operational) meteorological, hydrological, climatological and/or related services.
1.1.3 Members should decide, in light of their national circumstances, whether higher or more
specific qualification requirements than those described below in sections 1.2–1.8 should be
established for certain categories of operational personnel.
1.1.4 Competency of Members’ personnel should be demonstrated through job performance

and assessed through competency assessment procedures, as appropriate.
Note: Guidance on competency development and assessmentimplementation procedures is

provided in Guide to the Development and Implementation of Competency‑based Frameworks
in Support of Meteorological, Hydrological and Climatological ServicesCompetency (in
preparationWMO-No. 1205)).
1.1.5 Members should establish competency assessment programmes procedures for different
categories of personnel; competency assessments should be repeated at regular intervals
defined by the quality management practice of each Member.
1.1.6 Members should implement WMO global-level competenciesy provisions for personnel
taking due account of their local conditions, regulations, requirements and procedures.
Note: Top-level competencies only are included in the Technical Regulations, while more
detailed second-level competencies are provided in additional guidance material, as noted.
National adaptations of the WMO competencies will require careful consideration of the
applicability of second-level information.
1.1.7 Members should ensure that their personnel undertake continuous professional
development to maintain competence.
1.2 Personnel providing aeronautical meteorological services
1.2.1 Qualifications
1.2.1.1 Members, taking into consideration the area and airspace of responsibility; the
impact of meteorological phenomena and parameters on aviation operations; aviation user
requirements; international regulations and local procedures and priorities, should shall ensure
that an Aeronautical Meteorological Forecaster has successfully completed the Basic Instruction
Package for Meteorologists as defined in Appendix A.
Note: This provision, which defines the required qualifications, will becomebecame a standard
practice on 1 December 2016.
1.2.1.2 Members should decide whether their national circumstances require specific
qualifications of Aeronautical Meteorological Observers.
1.2.2 Competencies
Note: See the Education & Training section at https://www.wmo.int/aemp/implementation

_areas for access to additional guidance, including second-level competency information.
The competency standards for aeronautical meteorological personnel are maintained by the
Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology.
1.2.2.1 Aeronautical Meteorological Forecaster
Members shall ensure that for the area and airspace of responsibility, given the impact of
meteorological phenomena and parameters on aviation operations, and in compliance with
aviation user requirements, international regulations and local procedures and priorities, an
Aeronautical Meteorological Forecaster is able to:
(a) Analyse and monitor continually the weather situation;
(b) Forecast aeronautical meteorological phenomena and parameters;
(c) Warn of hazardous phenomena;
(d) Ensure the quality of meteorological information and services;
(e) Communicate meteorological information to internal and external users.
1.2.2.2 Aeronautical Meteorological Observer
Members shall ensure that for the area and airspace of responsibility, given the impact of
meteorological phenomena and parameters on aviation operations, and in compliance with
aviation user requirements, international regulations and local procedures and priorities, an
Aeronautical Meteorological Observer is able to:
(a) Monitor continually the weather situation;
(b) Observe and record aeronautical meteorological phenomena and parameters;
(c) Ensure the quality of system performance and of meteorological information;
(d) Communicate meteorological information to internal and external users.
1.3 Personnel providing education and training for meteorological, hydrological

and climate services
Members should define, in light of their national circumstances, the specific qualifications
required of personnel providing education and training in meteorology, hydrology and
climatology.
1.3.2 Competencies
Note: See Guidelines for Trainers in Meteorological, Hydrological and Climate Services
(WMO-No. 1114) for additional guidance, including second-level competency information. The
Competency Standards for Providers of Education and Training for Meteorological, Hydrological
and Climate Services (March, 2014) are maintained by the Executive Council Panel of Experts on
Education and Training.
Members should ensure that institutions providing education and training for meteorological,
hydrological and climate services have the personnel and resources to:
(a) Analyse the organizational context and manage the training processes;
(b) Identify learning needs and specify learning outcomes;
(c) Determine a learning solution;
(d) Design and develop learning activities and resources;

(e) Deliver training and manage the learning event;
(f) Assess learning and evaluate the learning process.
Note: The performance criteria and knowledge requirements that support the competencies
should be customized based on the particular context of an organization.
1.4 Personnel supporting the WMO Information System
required of personnel supporting the WMO Information System.
1.4.2 Competencies
Note: The competency framework for personnel supporting the WMO Information System,
including second-level information, can be found in the Manual on the WMO Information System
(WMO-No. 1060), Appendix E, and in the Guide to the WMO Information System (WMO-No.
1061). The competency standards for WMO Information System personnel are maintained by
the Commission for Basic Systems.
The provision of WIS services within a National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (NMHS)
or related services might be accomplished by a variety of skilled personnel, including project
managers, engineers, technicians and information technology staff. Third party organizations,
such as universities, international and regional institutions and centres, private sector
companies and other providers, might also supply data, products and information for the WIS
service(s).
Members should ensure that institutions providing WIS services have the personnel and
resources to:
(a) Manage the physical infrastructure
(b) Manage the operational applications
(c) Manage the data flow
(d) Manage data discovery
(e) Manage interaction among WIS centres
(f) Manage external user interactions
(g) Manage the operational service
1.5 Personnel providing climate services
required of personnel providing climate services.
1.5.2 Competencies
Note: See the Guidelines for Assessment of Competencies for Provision of Climate Services
(in preparation) for additional guidance, including second-level competency information. The
competency standards for Climate Services provision are maintained by the Commission for
Climatology.
In a given institution, the list of the competencies to be met and the associated performance
criteria would be determined by its infrastructural capacity. Competencies falling in the areas
of quality of climate information and services as well as communication of climatological
information to users are considered cross-cutting and should be met, at least at basic levels, by
all institutions providing climate services.
Note: The competency framework is conditioned by:

(a) The organizational mission and priorities, and stakeholder requirements.
(b) The way in which internal and external personnel are engaged in the provision of climate
services.
(c) The available resources and capabilities (financial, human and technical).
(d) National and institutional legislation, rules, organizational structure, policies and
procedures.
(e) WMO guidelines, policies and procedures for climate data and products.
(f) The dominant weather and climate influences, and extremes experienced.
1.5.2.1 Competencies and associated performance criteria:
Competency 1: (a) Creating and managing climate data sets
Climate data and metadata and climate data products shall be gathered and stored in datasets,
quality controlled and assessed for homogeneity. Hence staff shall:
(a) Conduct climate data preservation and rescue procedures;
(b) Assess the location and characteristics of the observation sites against the requirements
for a climate observation reference network;
(c) Collect and store climate data and metadata in relational databases;
(d) Apply quality control processes to climate data and resulting time series
(e) Assess climate data homogeneity and adjust inhomogeneous time series;
(f) Create, archive and document climate datasets;
Apply spatial and temporal interpolation to ensure data continuity.
Competency 2: (b) Deriving products from climate data
Climate data products for science and user applications are derived from different sources of
climate data (such as observed and reconstructed time series, reanalysis, satellite and modelled
data) applying statistics which describe their spatial and temporal characteristics. Staff should:
(a) Identify and retrieve climate data from different sources to generate climate products;
(b) Compute basic climate products, normals and averages, or anomalies defined relative to a
reference period;
(c) Compute climate indices for monitoring climate change, climate variability and climate
extremes;
(d) Compute sector-specific climate indices and other sector-oriented climate products;
(e) Apply statistical and geo-statistical analysis to monitor the spatial distribution and temporal
evolution of climate;
(f) Create value-added products such as graphics, maps and reports to explain climate
characteristics and evolution, according to the needs of specific sectors such as health,
agriculture, water, energy and disaster management.
Competency 3: (c) Creating and/or interpreting climate forecasts, climate projections and model
output
Climate data, climate data products and climate model outputs are operated and used to create
sub-seasonal and seasonal climate forecasts and future climate projections. Staff should:
(a) Locate, select and retrieve climate forecasts and climate model outputs generated by
Regional Climate Centres, Global Producing Centres and other institutions;
(b) Create sub-seasonal, seasonal and longer-scale forecast products;
(c) Create future climate projections using climate models in a selected domain for different
scenarios and parametrization;
(d) Apply statistical and geo-statistical analysis, including downscaling, to monitor the spatial
distribution and temporal evolution of model outputs;
(e) Evaluate the performance of climate model outputs and quantify the associated
uncertainties;
(f) Create value-added products, such as graphics, maps and reports to communicate climate
forecasts and climate model information to users.
Competency 4: (d) Ensuring the quality of climate information and services
Climate information and services should be defined and routinely updated. Best practices should
be followed and/or guidelines and quality management procedures for climate information
should be created and routinely maintained. Monitoring processes of climate services should be
documented and used in quality control activities. Hence the institution’s management should:
(a) Create and apply quality management processes and procedures for climate services;
Recruit competent personnel and organize the workforce so that it can develop and deliver
climate services;
(b) Ensure that the infrastructural capacity of the institution meets the requirements of the
competency framework and that there is a strategy for sustainable capabilities;
(c) Provide training to staff so that they can fulfil their job requirements and expand their
capabilities;
(d) Define and implement a catalogue of climate datasets, products and services to meet user
requirements at the national/regional level;
(e)
(f) Monitor the functions of climate services, including validation of data, products and
services;
(g)
(h) Evaluate the impacts and benefits for customers of climate services, by gathering
customers’ comments, suggestions and complaints;
(i)
(j) Make decisions for service improvement based on evaluation results;
(k)
(l) Build partnerships with science and service providers and end users to improve products
and service delivery.
(m)
Competency 5: (e) Communicating climatological information to users
Climate science, data and products should be communicated to policymakers, stakeholders and
the general public. The institution’s management should:
(a) Prioritize the communication of climatological information according to social, political and
economic relevance;
(b) Establish effective communication channels with users of climate services and build
outreach capacities, such as Regional Climate Outlook Forums;
(c) Conduct analyses of customer needs on a regular basis and evaluate the results;
(d) Review climate services and their communication strategy on the basis of user feedback;
(e) Formulate and deliver, in partnership with users, specific applications to facilitate
understanding and use of climate products and services;
(f) Comply with the interfacing requirements of the GFCS and the WMO Information System.
1.6 Personnel providing marine meteorological services (in preparation)
required of personnel providing climatemarine meteorological services. Members should ensure
that a Marine Weather Forecaster has successfully completed the Basic Instruction Package for
Meteorologists as defined in Appendix A.
1.6.2 Competencies
Note: See the WMO Marine Weather Forecaster Competence Standards Framework
on the JCOMM website at https://www.jcomm.info/index.php?option=com_oe&task=
viewDocumentRecord&docID=13093 for additional guidance, including second-level competency
information. The competency standards for Marine Weather Forecasters are maintained by the
WMO-IOC Joint Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology.
Members should ensure that for the given area of responsibility, in consideration of the
impact of meteorological phenomena, variables and parameters on marine operations, and
in compliance with marine user requirements, international regulations, local procedures and
priorities, a Marine Weather Forecaster is able to:
(a) Analyse and monitor continually the marine weather situation;
(b) Forecast marine weather phenomena, variables and parameters;
(c) Warn of hazardous marine meteorological phenomena;
(d) Ensure the quality of marine meteorological information and services;
(e) Communicate marine meteorological information to internal and external users.

1.7 Personnel providing public weather services
A PWS Forecaster should have successfully completed the Basic Instructional Package for
Meteorologists (BIP-M) as defined in Appendix A.
1.7.2 Competencies
Note: See EC-70/INF. 5.1 for additional guidance, including second-level competency
information. The Competency Standards for Public Weather Services Delivery are maintained by
the Commission for Basic Systems.
1.7.2.1 Public Weather Forecaster
Members should ensure that for the nationally-defined PWS areas of responsibility,
meteorological and hydrological impacts on society, and meteorological and hydrological user
requirements, local procedures and priorities, a Public Weather Forecaster is able to:
(a) Analyse and monitor continually the evolving meteorological and/or hydrological situation;
(b) Forecast meteorological and hydrological phenomena and parameters;
(c) Warn of hazardous meteorological and hydrological phenomena;
(d) Communicate meteorological and hydrological information to internal and external users;
and
(e) Ensure the quality of meteorological and hydrological information and services.
1.7.2.2 Public Weather broadcasters and communicators
Members should ensure that for the geographical areas of responsibility, meteorological and
hydrological impacts on society, and meteorological and hydrological user requirements, local
procedures and priorities, a Public Weather broadcasters and communicators is able to:
(a) Maintain awareness of the evolving meteorological and/or hydrological situation, updated
(b) Assemble meteorological and hydrological information that meet user needs for
communication and delivery;
(c) Communicate meteorological and hydrological information and potential impacts via
broadcast and other media;
1.7.2.3 Persons engaged in the development and delivery of meteorological and hydrological
products and services
Members should ensure that for the nationally-defined areas of responsibility, meteorological
and hydrological impacts on society, and meteorological and hydrological user requirements,
local procedures and priorities, a person engaged in the development and delivery of
meteorological and hydrological products and services is able to:
(a) Maintain awareness of developments in technology, and science which facilitate the
development and improvement of products and services to meet user requirements;
(b) Develop applications, products and services that meet user requirements;
(c) Develop and manage relationships with users and other stakeholders, in particular through
providing documentation and delivering training on new products and services;
1.7.2.4 PWS advisor supporting disaster prevention and mitigation and other user services
Members should ensure that for the nationally-defined PWS areas of responsibility,
meteorological and hydrological impacts on society, and meteorological and hydrological
societal requirements, local procedures and priorities, a PWS advisor supporting disaster
prevention and mitigation and other user services is able to:
(a) Monitor continually the evolving meteorological and/or hydrological situation, updated
(b) Develop and adopt procedures and services to meet user needs and facilitate impact
assessments;
(c) Develop and manage relationships with DPM users and other stakeholders;
(d) Communicate meteorological and/or hydrological information and potential impacts to

internal and external users and engage in outreach activities
(e) Ensure the quality of meteorological and hydrological information and services.
1.8 Personnel responsible for instruments, observations, and observing

programmes and networks
required of personnel performing meteorological observations, installing, maintaining and
calibrating instrumentation, and managing observing programmes and networks.
1.8.2 Competencies
Note: See the Guide to Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO-No. 8), Volume V,
Chapter 5 for additional guidance, including second-level competency information. The
Competency Standards for Personnel Performing Meteorological Observations, Installing and
Maintaining Instrumentation, Performing Instrument Calibrations, and Managing Observing
Programmes and Networks are maintained by the Commission for Instruments and Methods
of Observation, in case of the last standard, in consultation with the Commission for Basic
Systems.
1.8.2.1 Personnel performing meteorological observations
1.8.2.1.1 Members should ensure that institutions providing meteorological observations have
the personnel and resources to:
(a) Monitor the meteorological situation;
(b) Perform a surface observation;
(c) Perform a balloon-borne upper air observation;
(d) Utilize remote sensing technology in making observations;
(e) Monitor the performance of instruments and systems;
(f) Maintain the quality of observational information;

(g) Maintain a safe work environment.
1.8.2.2 Personnel installing and maintaining instrumentation
1.8.2.2.1 Members should ensure that institutions installing and maintaining

instrumentation have the personnel and resources to:
(a) Install instruments and communications systems;
(b) Maintain instrument and system performance;
(c) Diagnose faults;
(d) Repair faulty instruments and systems;
(e) Maintain a safe work environment.
1.8.2.3 Personnel performing instrument calibrations
1.8.2.3.1 Members should ensure that institutions providing instrument calibration services
have the personnel and resources to:
(a) Calibrate instruments;
(b) Check instrument performance;
(c) Manage the laboratory work programme;
(d) Manage the laboratory infrastructure;
(e) Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures;
(f) Manage the data and record archival#;
(g) Maintain a safe work environment and laboratory security.
Note: #The meaning of the term “archival” in this context is the function of storing, keeping
secure, and ensuring discoverability, accessibility and retrievability of data and information.
1.8.2.4 Personnel managing observing programmes and networks
1.8.2.4.1 Members should ensure that institutions managing observing programmes and
networks have the personnel and resources to:
(a) Plan the observing programme;
(b) Procure equipment;
(c) Select and acquire sites;
(d) Install network components;
(e) Manage the network operation;
(f) Manage the observing programme.

Guidance on ongoing hydrology and water resources initiatives
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 21 (Cg-XV) – Strategy for the enhancement of cooperation between National
Meteorological and National Hydrological Services for improved flood forecasting,
(2) Resolution 15 (Cg-XVI) – Establishment of an Advisory Group for the WMO Flood
Forecasting Initiative,
(3) Decision 5 (EC-69) – Flood forecasting,
(4) Decision 49 (EC-69) – WMO priority actions in hydrology and water resources
management,
Recalling also that the objective of the WMO Flood Forecasting Initiative (FFI) is to “Improve
the capacity of meteorological and hydrological services to jointly deliver timely and more
accurate products and services required in flood forecasting and warning and in collaborating
with disaster managers, active in flood emergency preparedness and response” (cited from the
Strategy and Action Plan for the Enhancement of Cooperation between National Meteorological
and Hydrological Services for Improved Flood Forecasting – http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/
hwrp/documents/FFInitiativePlan.pdf),
Considering:
(1) That the FFI Advisory Group (FFI-AG) at its third meeting in December 2017, as
documented in its report:
(a) Noted the outcome of the recent independent review of the Associated Programme on
Flood Management and the agreement of the Commission for Hydrology (CHy) at its
fifteenth session and the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission on Oceanography and
Marine Meteorology (JCOMM) at its fifth session to undertake an independent review
of the Coastal Inundation Flood Demonstration Project (CIFDP) (see Resolution 12 (EC-
70)), and, in so doing, recommended that the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS)
and CHy be engaged to undertake an independent review of the Flash Flood Guidance
System (FFGS) with global coverage,
(b) Recommended an independent review be undertaken of the Severe Weather Forecast

Demonstration Project (SWFDP),
(c) Recommended the results of all three reviews be made available to FFI-AG to allow
their full consideration prior to the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress,
(2) That the CBS Management Group (March 2018) decided to perform the overall review of
the SWFDP (see Resolution 1 (EC-70),
(3) That the Executive Council Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction met in April 2018
and recommended (see Resolution 1 (EC-70)),
(a) An overall independent review of FFGS, CIFDP and SWFDP,
(b) That following the review of these projects, a consolidated approach be developed
jointly by the presidents of CBS, CHy and JCOMM to ensure SWFDP, CIFDP and FFGS
can provide efficient, sustainable services related to hazardous weather, water and
climate,
Acknowledging that these projects are mainly funded through extrabudgetary resources and
that resource mobilization and their sustainability have always been a challenge, both in terms
of funding and in the provision of adequate human resources for coordination,
Noting progress made by the WMO Hydrological Status and Outlook System (HydroSOS),
attained in part through two planning meetings leading to a detailed work programme that
will result in a system capable of identifying cases where current and forecasted hydrological
conditions could be significantly different from a normal situation, indicating the potential for
drought and flood, and that these efforts will support the development of a joint report of the
state of the global climate and its hydrological status,
Noting also progress made by the Global Hydrometry Support Facility (WMO HydroHub),
aiming at improving the World Hydrological Cycle Observing System, WMO Hydrological
Observing System and other hydrometry-related activities, including hydrological data-sharing,
by developing sustainable and innovative approaches for efficient hydrological observations by
National Meteorological and Hydrological Services and their partners,
Endorses the recommendations of FFI-AG mentioned above, as they will improve the flood
forecasting capabilities of WMO Members and thus contribute to establishing a solid foundation
for multi-hazard early warning systems in their territories;
Requests the president of CHy:
(1) To coordinate, with the presidents of CBS and JCOMM, the independent technical reviews of
CIFDP, FFGS and SWFDP, including the development of a consolidated approach to ensure
efficient sustainable services related to hazardous weather, climate and water, and that
FFI-AG, through its Chairperson, report on the reviews to Congress;
(2) To coordinate, with the presidents of CBS and the Commission for Climatology, as well as
the WMO research community, the development and implementation of HydroSOS and the
report on the state of the water resources;
(1) To ensure that SWFDP and flood forecasting activities that include coastal inundation
complement each other wherever possible;
(2) To take the necessary steps to secure funding to undertake the independent technical
reviews of CIFDP, FFGS and SWFDP together with the development of the consolidated
approach of these to ensure provision of sustainable services;
(3) To take the necessary steps to mobilize extrabudgetary resources for the development and
implementation of HydroSOS and the state of the water resources report;
Invites Members:
(1) To express their needs and identified gaps in hydrological data collection, measuring
technology, data interpretation tools and hydrological information systems that could be
addressed by WMO HydroHub;
(2) To contribute expertise and financial resources for the development and implementation of
HydroSOS.
Implementation Plan of WMO Hydrological Observing System phase II
Noting:
(1) That WMO Hydrological Observing System (WHOS) phase II, as decided by the Commission
for Hydrology (CHy) at its fifteenth session and endorsed by the Executive Council at its
sixty-ninth session, aims at providing a fully WMO Information System (WIS)-compliant
services-oriented framework linking hydrologic data providers and users through a
hydrologic information system enabling data registration, discovery and access,
(2) That WHOS, its operations and procedures for those centres contributing to it, are
described in the Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1160),
(3) That the hydrological data from WHOS need to be available to the broader WMO and
partner community,
(4) That the initial WHOS implementation plan was developed by the Advisory Working Group
of the Commission of Hydrology, as requested by CHy at its fifteenth session,
(5) That the report on the evolving role of the global hydrological data centres requested
by the Seventeenth World Meteorological Congress will take into consideration WHOS
requirements and governing principles,
(6) The additional benefit that the future development of WHOS can derive from the World
Water Data Initiative, now under the aegis of WMO (see Resolution 18 (EC-70)),
Endorses the initial Implementation Plan for WHOS phase II, the table of contents of which is
included in the annex to the present resolution, including its governance and architecture, which
are compliant with the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS), WIS and the Global
Data-processing and Forecasting System (GDPFS) programmes;
Decides that the procedures and governance for data provision from national and data
collection centres, as described for National Centres and Data Collection or Production Centres
in the Manual on the WMO Information System (WMO-No. 1060) are applicable and sufficient for
authorizing WHOS centre(s) to make their data available through WIS;
Requests the Secretary-General to support the work of CHy in this activity and its coordination
with GDPFS, WIGOS and WIS.
WHOS phase II – Initial Implementation Plan
Table of Contents
PART 1. CONCEPT AND ARCHITECTURE 4
1. Data Collection and Dissemination in Hydrology 4
2. Sharing of Data and Information in Hydrology 5
3. A Federated Approach to Hydrological Data Sharing 7
4. WHOS Architecture 8
5. WHOS Components 9
5.1 Hydrological data 11
5.2 Data formats 12
5.3 Data services 14
5.4 Mediator 15
5.5 Broker 17
5.6 Ontology 19
5.7 Client 20
PART 2. IMPLEMENTATION 21
6. Scales 21
6.1 Local scale 23
6.2 National scale 26
6.3 Transboundary scale 26
6.4 Regional scale 27
6.5 Global scale 28
7. WHOS governance 29
8. WIS Compliance and Timescales 30
9. WMO Global Data Centres 31
10. Implementation steps 32
11. Resource Issues 33
Outcomes of the special dialogue on water
Having convened the Special Dialogue on Water on 25 June 2018,
Noting the outcomes of the dialogue, a summary of which is included in Annex 1, which
encouraged WMO to take a stronger role in the evolving global water agenda to realize
opportunities and benefits to Members,
Noting also the considerations underway as encapsulated in Recommendation 25 (EC-70),

Urges the president of the Commission on Hydrology (CHy) to convene an extraordinary

session of CHy as soon as possible (December 2018) in Geneva to lay out the path forward
with regard to the major WMO developments in hydrology and to propose the necessary
organizational arrangements for the hydrological community to deliver on relevant strategic
objectives defined in the WMO Strategic Plan;
Decides to establish an Executive Council Task Force on Water led by Mr A. Snorrason with the
terms of reference given in Annex 2 to the present resolution;
Requests the Secretary-General to allocate resources and organize the session;
Invites Members to support the extraordinary session of CHy with voluntary contributions;
Accepts the offer of the Government of Australia to transfer the leadership of the World Water
Data Initiative (WWDI), established under the High Level Panel on Water (convened by the
United Nations Secretary-General and the President of the World Bank Group), to WMO, and
expresses its thanks to the Government of Australia for the trust in WMO this gesture shows;
Requests the president of CHy to integrate WWDI into the CHy programme of work;
Endorses the statement of the 2018 WMO HydroConference: Prosperity through Hydrological
Services (Geneva, 7–9 May);
Requests CHy to take a leading role, in consultation with the Commission for Basic Systems
and the Commission for Atmospheric Sciences, in organizing the follow-up efforts to advance
the complete hydrological value chain, in particular efforts related to operational hydrology.
Summary of the debates held during the special dialogue on water
During the breakout group segment of the Special Dialogue on Water held at EC-70 on 25 June
2018, the following were the common recommendations emanating from the three groups:
- The main priorities to achieve Strategic Objective 1.3 of the WMO Strategic Plan are to
support and expand with new technologies the operation of observational hydrological
networks and to enhance the capacity of Members to sustain such operation;
- The promotion of and assistance to hydrological data exchange should be strengthened;
- There is a need to understand the culture of decision making, with the assistance of social
science, to better define what is required in terms of hydrological services;
- The issue of optimal institutional arrangements should be approached in layers, from sub-
national to global. At regional level, coordination with regional entities is needed as well
as an analysis of how hydrology should be addressed by existing or new WMO regional
centres. At national level, it is difficult to find a one size fits all solution, but Integrated
Water Resources Management is the concept to follow;
- The traditional engagement of NHSs with WMO should not be lost as a consequence of the
ongoing governance changes. An effort shall be made to strengthen the representation of
hydrologists in the governance of WMO;
- WMO should build on its achievements in transboundary cooperation with projects such as
WHYCOS, WHOS, FFGS, HydroSoS;
- WMO should strengthen its existing partnership under the umbrella of UN-Water.
Executive Council Task Force on Water
TERMS OF REFERENCE
In order to strengthen the essential role of hydrology in WMO and its further integration into
the Earth system approach, and to enhance WMO critical contribution in global water agenda,
the Working Group shall develop, in coordination with EC WG SOP, recommendations to the
Congress to be submitted through the President of WMO, regarding:
(1) The unique contribution that WMO can make to the delivery of hydrological services,
considering the complete value chain, in line with the WMO Strategic Plan and Operational
Plan and global water agenda, based on the outcomes of the WMO HydroConference, the
EC-70 Special Dialogue on Water as well as the deliberations of the extraordinary session
of CHy;
(2) Vision and strategy for the future effective and fit-for-purpose hydrological services
delivery; and
(3) Mechanisms for high-level engagement with partners and stakeholders, including
UN‑Water.
The Task Force on Water, chaired by Dr A. Snorrason will comprise the President of CAS, the
President of CHy, two (2) EC members engaged in both hydrological and meteorological service
delivery, two (2) Regional Hydrological Advisors, two (2) leading technical and service experts
in hydrology and water resources appointed by the Executive Council members, in consultation
with Regional Hydrological Advisors, NHSs and the President of CHy. The Task Force will work
virtually to the extent possible.
Guide to the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1165)
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 2 (EC-68) – Plan for the WMO Integrated Global Observing System pre-
operational phase 2016–2019,
(2) Resolution 2 (EC-69) – Initial version of the Guide to the WMO Integrated Global Observing
System,
(3) Decision 30 (EC-69) – Guidance on establishing Regional WMO Integrated Global Observing
System Centres in pilot phase,
(4) Decision 31 (EC-69) – Indicators for monitoring progress in the WMO Integrated Global
Observing System national implementation,
Acknowledging with appreciation the development of further guidance material by the

Intercommission Coordination Group on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System
(WIGOS), in accordance with Resolution 2 (EC-69), namely “Guidance on the national WIGOS
implementation”, “Guidance on WIGOS data partnerships” (the executive summary of which
is provided in the annex to the present resolution), “Guidance on establishing a Regional
WMO Integrated Global Observing System Centre in pilot phase” and “Technical guidelines for
Regional WIGOS Centres (RWCs) on the WIGOS Data Quality Monitoring System (WDQMS) for
surface-based stations of the Global Observing System (GOS)” (see http://www.wmo.int/pages/
prog/www/wigos/WGM-2018.html; and for more information http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/
www/wigos/tools.html),
Having considered the draft update of the Guide proposed by the Intercommission
Coordination Group on WIGOS (http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/wigos/WGM-2018.html),
Decides to adopt the updated Guide with effect from 1 October 2018;
(1) To publish the updated Guide to the WMO Integrated Global Observing System in all WMO
official languages;
(2) To ensure the editorial consistency of the relevant documents;
Requests the Intercommission Coordination Group on WIGOS to further develop and enhance
the Guide with additional material as it becomes available in accordance with Resolution 2
(EC‑68);
Invites Members:
(1) To use the Guide in their implementation of the relevant Technical Regulations;
(2) To provide feedback to the Secretary-General on how to improve subsequent versions of

the Guide.
Guidance on WIGOS data partnerships
Executive Summary
The WMO Integrated Global Observing System, WIGOS, is designed to manage and coordinate
the acquisition of observations of all relevant physical domains, from a diversity of surface-
and space-based observing systems, by a variety of entities. The overall aim is to provide an
integrated, composite set of observations accessible to a broad user community as a basis for
products and services in a wide range of operational and scientific application areas related to
weather, climate, water and the atmospheric environment.
The implementation of WIGOS is initially focused on the integration of existing WMO

observing systems, which are predominantly, although not exclusively, operated by National
Meteorological and Hydrological Services and their established partners. However, WIGOS also
encourages and enables the integration of observations from other (non-NMHS) partners such
as other governmental and non-governmental organizations, research institutes, volunteer
networks, private sector entities, and individual citizens.
It is well known that earth system observations of potential value to the WMO community are
already now being collected by such external entities, but thus far their incorporation into the
WMO observing systems has been constrained by the lack of an integrating framework and by a
variety of technical and regulatory barriers. WIGOS now offers the framework and tools to allow
for these observations to be integrated and to more effectively contribute to national and global
interests.
The purpose of this document is to provide guidance on how to integrate observations from
non-NMHS sources into WIGOS. It addresses the mutual benefits of data sharing and the
challenges associated with such integration. It also highlights the roles and expectations of
NMHSs in encouraging and facilitating the integration process.
While primarily intended to support NMHSs in their national implementation of WIGOS, this
document is relevant to both NMHS and non-NMHS audiences.
Sections 3 and 4 are intended primarily for Permanent Representatives to WMO, NMHS
Directors, and Senior Managers in their roles as the national promoters and implementers
of WIGOS within their Member state or territory. These sections provide the Principles and
General Guidance in establishing and maintaining partnerships with operators of observing
systems. These principles are also of relevance to non-NMHS organizations considering a data
partnership with their NMHS.
Section 5 is intended primarily for NMHS Observing System Managers in their role as technical
leads and facilitators of the national WIGOS implementation. This section provides Technical
Guidance on how to integrate observational data from other sources in compliance with the
Manual on WIGOS (WMO-No. 1160). This section is also of relevance to technical managers
from non-NMHS organizations in order to understand the technical implications of sharing their
observational data with a NMHS.
Publication of the SATCOM Handbook
Recalling Resolution 31 (Cg-17) – Report of the extraordinary session (2014) of the

Commission for Basic Systems relevant to centres and networks of the WMO Information
System, which established the WMO–Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission
International Forum of Users of Satellite Data Telecommunication Systems (SATCOM User
Forum) to facilitate access to satellite data telecommunication,
Noting that:
(1) The SATCOM User Forum has developed the Satellite Data Telecommunication
Handbook (SATCOM Handbook) to assist Members in procuring and using satellite data
telecommunication,
(2) The SATCOM Handbook has been presented to the Commission for Basic Systems Technical
Conference, held from 26 to 29 March 2018,
Decides:
(1) To publish as a stand-alone attachment to the Guide to the WMO Information System
(WMO-No. 1061) the SATCOM Handbook (https://wis.wmo.int/SATCOM-Handbook);
(2) To designate the whole SATCOM Handbook as technical specifications and authorize the
fast track (simple) procedure to be used to amend the it;
(3) To amend the text of the Guide to the WMO Information System as indicated in the annex
to the present resolution;
Authorizes the Secretary-General to make editorial amendments to the SATCOM Handbook

and consequential editorial amendments to the Guide to the WMO Information System;
Encourages Members to refer to the SATCOM Handbook when considering the use of satellite
data telecommunication.
Text to refer to the SATCOM Handbook in the Guide to the WMO Information System
(WMO-No. 1061)
Add the following text in Part I of the WMO-No. 1061 Guide to the WMO Information System:
1.7.6 Guidance on the use of satellite telecommunication systems is provided in the document
SATCOM Handbook (WMO‑No. xxx; https://wis.wmo.int/SATCOM-Handbook) that is an
Attachment to this Guide.
Amendment to the
Manual on the Global Telecommunication System (WMO-No. 386)
Recalling that Recommendation 18 (CBS-16) – Amendments to the Manual on the Global

Telecommunication System (WMO-No. 386) and its attachments, Annex 2, concerning the
description of connectivity of the Global Telecommunication System with the WMO Information
System, was not endorsed by the Executive Council at its sixty-ninth session,
Noting that the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) Management Group met on
29 March 2018 and recommended modified text following discussions during the CBS Technical
Conference 2018,
Decides to amend the Manual on the Global Telecommunication System (WMO-No. 386) as
specified in Annexes 1 and 2 to the present resolution;
Authorizes the Secretary-General to make editorial amendments to the text and diagrams in
Annexes 1 and 2 to the present resolution.
Amendment to the Manual on the Global Telecommunication System (WMO-No. 386)

Regional Telecommunication Hubs of the Global Telecommunication System
Amendments to WMO-No. 386 if the procedure to transfer RTH Tashkent to use GISC
Moscow has been completed
1. Amend Part 1, Attachment I-2 by replacing the existing diagram with the following
diagram (Figure 1 WIS RTH responsibility) as follows
Attachment I-2. Responsibilities in the WMO Information System for the main
telecommunication network
WIS Responsibility Roadmap RTH(DCPC)

22: Tashkent, 23: Novosibirsk
GISC 24: Khabarovsk 65: Moscow*
DCPC(RTH) GISC Moscow
61: Exeter* Exeter GISC RTH(DCPC)
RTH(DCPC) 28: Beijing*
12 . Nairobi Beijing
62: Norrköping
64: Offenbach* RTH(DCPC)
GISC 25: Tokyo*
67. Prague* GISC
Tokyo 26: Bangkok
66: Rome Offenbach
68: Vienna
69. Sofia* GISC
Seoul
RTH(DCPC) GISC
WIS Core Network

63: Toulouse* Toulouse
16: Algiers* GISC RTH(DCPC)
Jeddah 29: Jeddah*
GISC
RTH(DCPC) Casablanca
11. Cairo GISC
15. Dakar*
17. Brazzaville
Tehran RTH(DCPC)
18. Niamey GISC 21: Tehran
Pretoria GISC
New Delhi
RTH(DCPC) GISC GISC
14: Pretoria GISC
Washington Melbourne
Brasilia
RTH(DCPC)
RTH(DCPC) RTH(DCPC) RTH(DCPC) 27: New Delhi*
41: Washington* 31: Brasilia*, 32: Buenos Aires* 51: Melbourne*
33: Maracay 52: Wellington
Figure 1: WIS RTH responsibility plan
Note: data flow does not always follow the same path as the responsibilities.
2. Amend Part 1, Attachment I-3 as follows
ATTACHMENT I-3. RESPONSIBILITIES OF REGIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION HUBS

CENTRES ON THE MAIN TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK FOR THE TRANSMISSION
OF OBSERVATIONAL DATA AND PROCESSED INFORMATION
1. RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE COLLECTION, EXCHANGE AND DISTRIBUTION

OF OBSERVATIONAL DATA OF WMCs AND RTHs LOCATED ON THE MAIN
TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK
The responsibilities are

[Replace the table under 1. with the following table shown in Figure 2 (RTH – Areas of
Responsibility)]
RTH RTH's
RTH RTH City (Country) RTH's Backup
Reference Principal RTH’s Area of Responsibility
Region (*=RTH/MTN) GISC
No. GISC
1 11 Cairo* (Egypt) Casablanca Toulouse Egypt, Sudan, Libya,
adjacent sea areas
1 12 Nairobi* (Kenya) Offenbach Moscow / Kenya, Ethiopia, Burundi,
Tokyo Djibouti, Uganda, Rwanda,
Somalia, La Réunion,
United Republic of Tanzania,
adjacent ocean areas
1 13 Lusaka (Zambia) Pretoria Exeter Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi
1 14 Pretoria (South Pretoria Exeter South Africa, Angola,
Africa) Botswana, Lesotho,
Madagascar, Malawi,
Mozambique, Namibia,
Eswatini, La Réunion,
Zimbabwe, and the following
centres via La Réunion:
Antananarivo, Comoros,
Mauritius, Seychelles,
Amsterdam island,
Kerguelen, adjacent ocean
areas
1 15 Dakar* (Senegal) Casablanca Toulouse Senegal, Ascension Island,
Cabo Verde, Canary Islands,
Cote d'Ivoire, Guinea,
Guinea-Bissau, Liberia,
Madeira, Mali, Mauritania,
Morocco, Nigeria, Sierra
Leone, St. Helena, Gambia,
1 16 Algiers* (Algeria) Toulouse Exeter Algeria, Morocco, Lebanon,
Tunisia, adjacent sea areas
1 17 Brazzaville (Congo) Casablanca Toulouse Congo, Cameroon, Central
African Republic, Gabon,
Equatorial Guinea, São Tomé
and Príncipe, Democratic
Republic of the Congo,
1 18 Niamey (Niger) Casablanca Toulouse Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad,
Ghana, Niger, Nigeria, Togo
2 21 Tehran Tehran TBD Iran (Islamic Republic of),
(Islamic Republic of Iraq, Pakistan, Yemen, other
Iran) territories in the Arabian
Peninsula, adjacent sea and
ocean areas
2 22 Tashkent Moscow TBD Afghanistan, Kazakhstan,
(Uzbekistan) Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan,
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan
2 23 Novosibirsk Moscow Offenbach / Mongolia, Russian Federation
(Russian Toulouse (in Region II)
Federation)
2 24 Khabarovsk Moscow Offenbach / Democratic People’s Republic
(Russian Toulouse of Korea, Russian Federation
Federation) (in Region II), adjacent sea
and ocean areas
RTH RTH's
No. GISC
2 25 Tokyo* (Japan) Tokyo Beijing / Hong Kong (China), Japan,
Offenbach / Macao (China), Republic of
Melbourne Korea, adjacent sea and the
Pacific Ocean areas
2 26 Bangkok (Thailand) Tokyo Beijing / Cambodia, Lao People’s
Offenbach / Democratic Republic,
Melbourne Myanmar, Thailand, Viet
Nam, adjacent sea and ocean
areas
2 27 New Delhi* (India) New Delhi TBD Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,
Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal,
Pakistan, Sri Lanka, adjacent
sea and ocean areas
2 28 Beijing* (China) Beijing Tokyo China, Democratic People’s
Republic of Korea, Viet Nam,
adjacent sea and ocean
areas
2 29 Jeddah* (Saudi Jeddah TBD Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman,
Arabia) Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United
Arab Emirates, Yemen, other
territories in the Arabian
Peninsula, adjacent sea and
ocean areas
3 31 Brasilia* (Brazil) Brasilia Washington / Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador,
Pretoria French Guyana, Guyana,
Suriname, Venezuela
(Bolivarian Republic of),
ships’ and aircraft reports
3 32 Buenos Aires* Brasilia Washington / Argentina, Bolivia
(Argentina) Pretoria (Plurinational State of), Chile,
Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay,
ships’ and aircraft reports
3 33 Maracay Brasilia Washington / Colombia, Ecuador, French
(Venezuela) Pretoria Guyana, Guyana, Suriname,
Venezuela (Bolivarian
Republic of), ships’ and
aircraft reports
4 41 Washington* Washington Brasilia Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba,
(United States of Bahamas, Barbados, Belize,
America) British Caribbean Territories,
Canada, Cayman Islands,
Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba,
Curaçao and Sint Maarten,
Dominica, Dominican
Republic, El Salvador,
Grenada, Guatemala, Haiti,
Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico,
Monserrat, Nevis, Nicaragua,
Panama, Saint Kitts, Saint
Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago,
United States of America
RTH RTH's
No. GISC
5 51 Melbourne* Melbourne Tokyo / Seoul Australia and outlying
(Australia) islands, Brunei Darussalam,
Federated States of
Micronesia, Fiji, French
Polynesia, Indonesia,
Kiribati, Malaysia, New
Caledonia, Papua New
Guinea, Philippines, Samoa,
Singapore, Solomon Islands,
Timor-Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu,
Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna
5 52 Wellington (New Melbourne Tokyo / Seoul New Zealand and outlying
Zealand) islands, Cook Islands, Niue,
Pitcairn, Tokelau
6 61 Exeter* (United Exeter Toulouse Gibraltar, Greenland, Iceland,
Kingdom of Ireland, Netherlands, United
Great Britain and Kingdom, ocean weather
Northern Ireland) stations (OWS)
6 62 Norrköping Offenbach Moscow / Denmark, Estonia, Finland,
(Sweden) Tokyo Latvia, Lithuania, Norway,
Sweden
6 63 Toulouse* (France) Toulouse Exeter Belgium, France,
Luxembourg, Monaco,
Portugal, Spain
6 64 Offenbach* Offenbach Moscow / Germany, Jordan, Israel,
(Germany) Tokyo Switzerland
6 65 Moscow* (Russian Moscow Offenbach / Armenia, Azerbaijan,
Federation) Toulouse Belarus, Georgia, Republic of
Moldova, Russian Federation
(in Region VI), Ukraine
6 66 Rome (Italy) Offenbach Moscow / Greece, Italy, Lebanon,
Tokyo Malta, Turkey
6 67 Prague* (Czechia) Offenbach Moscow / Czechia, Poland
Tokyo
6 68 Vienna (Austria) Offenbach Moscow / Austria, Croatia, Hungary,
Tokyo Slovakia, Slovenia
6 69 Sofia* (Bulgaria) Offenbach Moscow / Albania, Bosnia and
Tokyo Herzegovina, Bulgaria,
Cyprus, Montenegro,
Romania, Serbia, Syrian
Arab Republic, the former
Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia
Figure 2 RTH – Areas of Responsibility (* denotes RTH on the MTN)

Amendment to the specification of the functional responsibilities of Regional

Telecommunication Hubs of the Global Telecommunication System in the Manual on
the Global Telecommunication System (WMO‑No. 386)
Amend WMO‑No. 386 Manual on the Global Telecommunication System as follows.
1. Amend Part 1, Section 1, paragraph 1.1 as follows:
1.1 Functions
The functions of the Global Telecommunication System (GTS) as a key component within the
WMO Information System (WIS) shall be to facilitate the flow of data and processed products
to meet the WWW requirements in a timely, reliable and cost-effective way, ensuring that all
Members have access to data and products in accordance with approved procedures and within
the limits of the agreed WWW system.
Note: It also gives telecommunication support to other programmes as a part of WIS and
as decided by the WMO Congress or the Executive Council, within the limits of its primary
objectives.
2. Amend Part 1, Section 1, paragraph 1.2.1 as follows
1.2.1 The Global Telecommunication System shall be so organized as to accommodate the

volume of meteorological information and its transmission within the required time limits as
the core network of WIS and to meet the needs of World, Regional Specialized and National
Meteorological Centres, resulting from the implementation of the WWW.
Insert note after paragraph 1.2.2(c) to read
1.2.2 The GTS shall be organized on a three-level basis, namely:
… (c) The national telecommunication networks.
Note: The components of the MTN connecting the WIS Global Information System Centres is
also referred to as the WIS Core Network (See the Manual on the WMO Information System
WMO-No. 1060).
3. Amend Part 1, Section 3 as follows
3. FUNCTIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS OF THE NETWORKS OF THE GLOBAL

TELECOMMUNICATION SYSTEM
3.1 The Main Telecommunication Network (MTN)
3.1.1 The MTN shall be an integrated system of circuits linking together the GISCs on the WIS
Core Network WMCs and designated RTHs. The circuits which directly link WMCs and/or RTHs
situated on the MTN may, at the request of Members concerned, be designated as circuits of the
MTN.
Note: The names of these centres, together with a diagram indicating the configuration of the
MTN, are given in Attachment I-2.
3.1.2 The MTN shall be designed in such a way that the traffic originating from each centre
(WMC, designated RTH) will be routed selectively towards the addressee centre(s). Each centre
on the MTN shall ensure selective relay of the traffic which it receives towards the circuit(s)
which it serves.
3.1.3 The MTN shall have the function of providing an efficient, reliable communication service
between the designated centres, in order to ensure:
(a) Rapid and reliable exchange of observational data required to meet the GDPFS
requirements;
(b) Exchange of processed information between the WMCs, including data received from
meteorological satellites;
(c) Transmission of processed information produced by the WMCs, to meet the requirements
of RSMCs and NMCs;
(d) Transmission of other observational data and processed information required for
interregional exchange.
Note: Responsibilities of RTHs, including those centres located on the MTN, for the
transmission of observational data and processed information are given in Attachment I-3.
Amendment to the Manual on the WMO Information System (WMO-No. 1060)
Recalling that:
(1) Appendix B of the Manual on the WMO Information System (WMO-No. 1060) records those
centres that are approved WMO Information System (WIS) centres,
(2) The Executive Council reviews Appendix B taking into consideration the recommendations
of the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) on the compliance of WIS centres with the
technical specifications defined in Part IV of the Manual,
Noting that CBS had assessed compliance with WIS requirements of proposed WIS centres
and had assessed those listed in the annex to the present resolution as conforming to the
requirements,
Decides to amend the Manual on the WMO Information System as specified in the annex to the
present resolution;
Authorizes the Secretary-General to make editorial amendments to the text of the annex to
the present resolution.
Inclusion of WIS Centres in the Manual on the WMO Information System (WMO-No.
1060)
Add the following rows to table 2 in Appendix B to WMO‑No. 1060 Manual on the WMO
Information System in the appropriate position taking into account alphabetic order of the first
two columns.
Table 2: Data Collection or Production Centres

WMO Member Technical
Centre location
or contributing Centre name Function commission/ GISC
region/city
organization programme
France Copernicus Regional VI Toulouse Copernicus Regional RA VI Toulouse
Air Quality Data Air Quality Data
Centre Centre
Singapore ASEAN Specialized V Singapore Regional monitoring CBS Melbourne
Meteorological Centre and alerting of
(ASMC) transboundary
smoke haze
Modify the entries for Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in table 3 in Appendix B to WMO‑No. 1060
Manual on the WMO Information System by editing the current row and introducing a second
row as shown below. Deleted text is indicated using red strikeout and added text using green
dashed underline.
Table 3: National Centres

Member or GTS Centre Principal Constituent
Centre name
organization function Region location GISC body
Kazakhstan Kazhydromet National NMC II Almaty Moscow CBS
Meteorological and
Hydrological Service (Almaty)
Kazakhstan National Meteorological and NMC II Astana Moscow CBS
Hydrological Service (Astana)
Uzbekistan Uzhydromet NMC II Tashkent Seoul CBS
Moscow
WMO Information System 2.0
Recalling that:
(1) The future WMO Information System (WIS) was first envisaged by the Commission for
Basic Systems (CBS) in 1992, the concept adopted by the Fourteenth World Meteorological
Congress (2003) and approved by Resolution 2 (Cg-XV) – World Weather Watch
Programme for 2008–2011,
(2) The first operational Global Information System Centres (GISCs) began in 2012,
Noting that WIS development, in addition to creating the new functionalities of discovery and
access, was conceived to be an evolution of the Global Telecommunication System (GTS),
Noting also that:
(1) The current architecture of WIS was developed almost 12 years ago, and that there are
many new technologies, architecture designs and industry solutions that were not available
at the time it was developed initially,
(2) Members have made considerable progress in moving from a telecommunications

architecture to data-centric infrastructure built on GISCs,
(3) Some Members are keen to ensure that WIS 2.0 is developed without such restrictions,
making full use of the new information technology and the public–private partnerships
environment and practices that are available to achieve the requirements of Members for
the full cycle of information management, building on the investments of Members in the
initial development and roll-out of WIS,
Requests CBS, in collaboration with the private sector and involving those Members that
currently operate GISCs, to analyze the data-exchange needs for WIS to provide reliable
data access to all users considering the availability of new technologies, architectures
and communication techniques, including cloud-based solutions, web services, application
programming interfaces, modern messaging protocols, and the like, and to study how they
would support or contribute to the evolution to WIS 2.0, and report back;
Requests the Secretary-General to provide the resources to support this work;
Urges Members to provide resources for development of potential solutions and feasibility
studies.
Provision of high-resolution radiosonde data on the

WMO Global Telecommunication System
Recalling Resolution 40 (Cg-XII) – WMO policy and practice for the exchange of meteorological
and related data and products including guidelines on relationships in commercial
meteorological activities, which adopts the practice that “Members shall provide on a free
and unrestricted basis essential data and products which are necessary for the provision of
services in support of the protection of life and property and the well-being of all nations,
particularly those basic data and products, as, at a minimum, described in Annex 1 to this
resolution, required to describe and forecast accurately weather and climate, and support WMO
Programmes”, and that Annex 1 – Data and products to be exchanged without charge and with
no condition on use, includes “All available data from upper air sounding networks”,
Recalling also WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) Observing Network Design
Principle No. 9, which states observing networks should be designed and should evolve in
such a way as to ensure that the observations are made available to other WMO Members at
space and time resolutions, and with a timeliness that meet the needs of regional and global
applications,
Recalling further Resolution 10 (EC-65) – Report of the fifteenth session of the Commission
for Basic Systems relevant to integrated observing systems, approving Recommendation 6
(CBS-15) – Implementation Plan for the Evolution of Global Observing Systems, responding to
the vision for the Global Observing System in 2025 and the needs of WIGOS,
Noting that the Implementation Plan for the Evolution of Global Observing Systems
includes action G14, which requests Members to “Ensure a timely distribution of radiosonde
measurements at high vertical resolution, together with position and time information for each
datum, and other associated metadata”,
Noting also that the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) had developed and approved
procedures for the transition from the provision of radiosonde data in traditional alphanumeric
codes to their provision in high-resolution BUFR,
Mindful that, while some Members have complied with this agreed action and are already
providing high-resolution radiosonde data on the Global Telecommunication System, it is
estimated that 69% of radiosonde stations are not yet providing these data (see EC-70/INF.
7.4(1) for further information supporting the present resolution),
Having been informed that, even with the currently limited provision of high-resolution
radiosonde data, numerical weather prediction applications have measured a significant positive
impact in forecast skill from the availability and use of these data, and experts expect that this
improvement will be extended and increased through wider availability of such data,
Decides to urge Members to increase their efforts to implement the required systems and
procedures to enable the provision of high-resolution radiosonde data from their radiosonde
stations in compliance with related CBS procedures and practices;
Encourages Members to increase the number of radiosonde launches per day;
Encourages regional associations and technical commissions, where needed and where
possible, to provide technical advice and develop collaborative solutions to assist Members with
this process.
Changes to ship masking schemes
Recalling Resolution 27 (EC-LIX) – Ship owners’ and masters’ concerns with regard to VOS
data exchange,
Noting Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology:
Abridged Final Report of the Fifth Session (WMO-No. 1208), including Recommendation
8 (JCOMM-5) – Changes to ship masking schemes, and Decision 32 (JCOMM-5) – Ship
Observations Team identifier scheme,
Noting also that:
(1) Security issues (piracy) as initial driver for the implementation of ship identifier masking
schemes are less important today,
(2) Progress with the satellite Automatic Identification System now allows for even global and
continuous ship tracking on public websites,
Mindful that the use of current ship identifier masking schemes such as “SHIP” does not
facilitate quality monitoring of ship data, and is, de facto, limiting access to VOS data to some
users,
Having considered the new Ship Observations Team identification scheme (SOT ID) approved
by the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology
(JCOMM) through Decision 32 (JCOMM-5),
Mindful also that some Members (such as Japan) have yet to negotiate the transition from ship
identifier masking to the new SOT ID with national authorities,
Having been informed of the rationale for Decision 32 (JCOMM-5) as detailed in

Recommendation 8 (JCOMM-5),
Decides no longer to keep in force Resolution 27 (EC-LIX);
Requests Members to discontinue using existing ship identifier masking and encode/decode
schemes, and to use the new proposed SOT ID instead;
Requests JCOMM to prepare a transition plan with instructions on timing and procedure to
move to the new SOT ID.
Note: The present resolution replaces Resolution 27 (EC-LIX), which is no longer in force.
Amendments to the Manual on the Global Data-processing

and Forecasting System (WMO-No. 485)
Considering:
(1) WMO circular letter reference WDS-DPFS/Revised Manual on GDPFS-2017, dated

16 January 2017, with actions required:
(a) “WMO Members currently hosting a WMC and/or RSMC to confirm the mapping of their
centres onto the new designations”,
(b) “WMO Members, who have expressed interest to have their centres designated at the
time of the CBS-16 session, to complete the designation process”,
(c) “All WMO Members that fulfil the criteria/functions described in the revised Manual on
the GDPFS (WMO-No. 485) to submit their candidature for designation”,
(2) Resolution 6 (Cg-XVI) – Revised Manual on the Global Data-processing and Forecasting
System (WMO-No. 485), in which the World Meteorological Congress agreed that the
revised Manual is the single source of technical regulations for all operational data-
processing and forecasting systems operated by WMO Members, including its designated
centres,
(3) Resolution 18 (EC-69) – Revised Manual on the Global Data-processing and Forecasting
System (WMO-No. 485), which approved the publication of the revised Manual,
including the addition of new types of centres – the Manual was effectively published on
16 February 2018,
(4) The transition arrangements, in particular that existing Regional Specialized Meteorological
Centres (RSMCs), once they have mapped themselves onto new types of centres, will
retain their status until the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress in 2019; and,
to retain their status after Eighteenth Congress, they will need to have demonstrated
compliance by the time of the Eighteenth Congress (see Recommendation 3 (CBS-Ext.
(2014) annex, endorsed by Resolution 12 (Cg-17),
(5) The plan to audit the centres for full compliance in advance of the Eighteenth World
Meteorological Congress, following the procedures that will be developed by the
Implementation Coordination Team on the Data-processing and Forecasting System Task
Team on Audit,
Recalling the standard procedure for amending WMO Manuals that are the responsibility of the
Commission for Basic Systems, as defined in the General Provisions,
Having examined:
(1) Recommendations of the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) Management Group at its
eighteenth session (March 2018):
(a) For the formal designation of Offenbach (Germany) as a World Meteorological Centre,
(b) For the formal designation of new RSMCs and their inclusion in Part III of the Manual
on the Global Data-processing and Forecasting System:
(i) For nowcasting: Hong Kong Observatory, Hong Kong, China,
(ii) For severe weather forecasting: Wellington (New Zealand) and Pretoria (South
Africa),
(iii) For nuclear and non-nuclear emergency response: Offenbach (Germany) and
Toulouse (France), respectively,
(c) For formal designation of the following new Global Producing Centres for Annual to
Decadal Climate Prediction: Offenbach, Barcelona Computing Centre (Spain), Montreal
(Canada) and Exeter (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland),
(d) For the endorsement of the outlines of the Guide to the Global Data-processing and
Forecasting System (WMO-No. 305), as per Annex 1 to the present resolution, to
ensure the necessary alignment with and provide further guidance to Members for the
implementation of the revised Manual on the Global Data-processing and Forecasting
System,
(e) To amend Appendix 2.2.18 of the Manual on the Global Data-processing and
Forecasting System – “Access to Global Producing Centres data and visualization
products held by the Lead Centre(s) for Long-range Forecast Multi-model Ensembles
(LC-LRFMME)” as per Annex 2 to the present resolution, to reflect the agreement
by the Global Producing Centres for Long-range Forecasts to remove the password
requirement for accessing their graphical products from the LC-LRFMME website,
(f) To amend Appendix 2.2.34 of the Manual on the Global Data-processing and
Forecasting System – “Standardized verification of deterministic numerical weather
prediction products”- to include, as per Annex 3 to the present resolution, a few
parameters and information related to scores which were missed during the edition of
the Manual,
(2) Recommendation 14 (JCOMM-5) – Criteria for, and designation of, marine-related GDPFS
Centres, (see EC-70 INF. 8(1)) which:
(a) Defines the designation criteria for RSMCs for marine meteorological services and
marine environmental emergencies, as per Annex 4 to the present resolution, for
inclusion in the Manual on the Global Data-processing and Forecasting System,
(b) Recommends the formal designation of all METAREA Issuing Services and Preparatory
Services as RSMCs for marine meteorological services and contributing centres and
inclusion in Part III of the Manual on the Global Data-processing and Forecasting
System,
(c) Recommends for formal designation the following centres as RSMCs for numerical
ocean wave prediction and inclusion in Part III of the Manual on the Global Data-
processing and Forecasting System: Montreal (Canadian Meteorological Centre);
Toulouse (Météo-France) and Tokyo (Japan Meteorological Agency),
Approves the above recommendations of the CBS Management Group and the Joint WMO/
IOC Technical Commission on Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM) (as indicated in
Annex 5 to the present resolution);
Notes with appreciation the significant progress that has been made towards the completion
of the designation process by interested Members, as defined in the revised Manual on the
Global Data-processing and Forecasting System;
Invites Members who have not completed their mapping onto the new types of centres and
those who have completed it but have not yet demonstrated compliance, to take action as
soon as possible to complete the process for demonstrating compliance to retain their status
according to the new designations beyond the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress;
Requests CBS to accelerate the development of the Guide to the Global Data-processing and
Forecasting System to facilitate the use of the revised Manual and to submit the Guide to the
Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress for approval;
Authorizes the Secretary-General, in consultation with the presidents of CBS and JCOMM, to
make any editorial amendments to the revised Manual.
Draft table of contents of revision of the Guide to the Global Data-processing and
Forecasting System (WMO-No. 305)
PART 1. ORGANIZATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1.1 The vision of the GDPFS (Note: this section will seek to capture the articulated vision of
the seamless GDPFS from relevant discussions and documents, in a way that assists the
promotion of the GDPFS to the wider community)
1.2 Guiding principles of the GDPFS (Note: the section will articulate foundational principles of
the GDPFS that are not necessarily explained in the Manual to those less familiar with the
GDPFS)
1.3 Organization of the GDPFS
1.4 Compliance with required GDPFS functions
1.5 Summary of required or recommended competencies for undertaking GDPFS functions
1.6 Alignment with related WIS functions
1.7 Alignment with related WIGOS functions
1.8 Interaction among GDPFS centres
1.9 Implementation of GDPFS, including interactions among technical commissions and

programmes
1.10 Summary of relevant Guidelines (further detail to be given in Part IV).
PART 2. ACTIVITIES SUPPORTED BY THE GDPFS
2.1 General (Note: this section will expand on the concise functional descriptions given in the
Manual but to the extent possible without repeating Manual text. The language will still be
kept simple and concise to ensure ease of translation)
2.2 Functional architecture of GDPFS
2.3 Roles in and review of activities supported by the GDPFS
2.3.1 General purpose activities
2.3.2 Specialized activities
2.3.3 Non-real time coordination activities
2.4 Functional requirements of a GDPFS centre (Note: this includes 24/7, connection to WIS,
back-up procedures, etc.)
PART 3. DESIGNATION PROCEDURES FOR GDPFS CENTRES
3.1 General
3.2 Procedure for a World Meteorological Centre (Note: To include background, a service offer
by a Member for potential WMC, demonstration of capabilities, designated WMCs)
3.3 Procedure for a Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre (Note: To include background,
service offer by a Member for potential RSMC, demonstration of capabilities, designated
RSMCs)
3.4 Rolling review of GDPFS centres (Note: references to detailed procedures will appear in
Part IV)
PART 4. GUIDELINES AND FURTHER READING
4.1 General
4.2 WMO Guidance (Note: this section will draw the reader's attention to other WMO guidance
essential for understanding the seamless GDPFS within the context of the greater whole,
including relevant Guides and Guidance notes already extant and as they are further
developed. Subjects covered might include quality control of incoming observations,
data collection and product dissemination, including standards and specifications,
procedures and formats for the exchange of data and products aligned with WIS technical
specifications, data-processing, including long-term storage of data and products,
verification, the audit process, training, and reporting.)
4.3 Other references
Amendment of Appendix 2.2.18 – Access to Global Producing Centre data and

visualization products held by the Lead Centre(s) for Long-range Forecast Multi-
model Ensembles
(a) Access to GPC data graphical products from the Lead Centre(s) for LRFMME websites will
be password protected.
(b) Digital GPC data will be redistributed only in cases where the GPC data policy allows it. In
other cases, requests for GPC output should be referred to the relevant GPC.
...
Amendment to Appendix 2.2.34 – Standardized verification of deterministic numerical

weather prediction products – Section 5.1 and 5.7 (pp 90 & 92) of the Manual on the
Global Data-processing and Forecasting System (WMO-No. 485)
5.1 Parameters
Extra-tropics:
– Mandatory:
– MSLP (verification against analysis only);
– Geopotential height at 850, 500 and 250 hPa;
– Temperature at 850, 500 and 250 hPa;
– Wind at 925, 850, 700, 500 and 250 hPa.
– Additional recommended:
– Geopotential height, temperature, wind at 100 hPa;
– Relative humidity at 850 and 700 hPa.
Tropics:
– Mandatory:
– Geopotential height at 850 and 250 hPa;
– Temperature at 850 and 250 hPa;
– Wind at 850 and 250 hPa.
– Additional recommended:
– Relative humidity at 850 and 700 hPa.
5.7 Scores
The following scores are to be calculated for all parameters against both analysis and (except
mean sea-level pressure) observation.
Wind
– Mandatory
– rms vector wind error
– mean error of wind speed
Other parameters:
– Mandatory
– Mean error
– Root mean square (rms) error
– Correlation coefficient between forecast and analysis anomalies (not required for obs)
– S1 score (only for MSLP and only against analysis)
– Additional recommended
– mean absolute error
– rms forecast and analysis anomalies (not required for observations)
– standard deviation of forecast and analysis fields (not required for observations)
Amendment to the Manual on the Global Data-processing and Forecasting System

(WMO-No. 485) concerning criteria for designation of marine meteorological services
and marine environmental emergencies
2.2.2.X. Marine Meteorological Services
Notes:
1. Operations, including practices, procedures and specifications are described in the Manual
on Marine Meteorological Services (WMO-No. 558);
2. This activity includes a network of National Meteorological Services.
2.2.2.X.1 National Meteorological Centres (including the Preparatory Services, which are
contributing centres) conducting marine meteorological services shall:
(a) Issue forecasts of marine environmental conditions for coastal and offshore areas;
(b) Issue warnings of marine meteorological hazards for coastal and offshore areas;
(c) Coordinate with national agencies responsible for marine matters, including for disaster
risk reduction, and search and rescue.
2.2.2.X.2 Members holding METAREA responsibility under the WMO/IMO Worldwide Met-
Ocean Information and Warning Service (WWMIWS), shall provide the following services in
compliance with the Joint IMO/IHO/WMO Manual on Maritime Safety Information:
(a) Issue forecasts of marine environmental conditions for the high seas;
(b) Issue warnings of marine meteorological hazards for the high seas;
(c) Organize the broadcast of marine forecasts and warnings on broadcast systems compliant
with the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS);
(d) Undertake the METAREA Coordinator responsibilities.
Note: The bodies in charge of managing the information contained in the Manual related to
marine meteorological services are specified in the Table below.
Responsibility
Changes to activity specification
To be proposed by: JCOMM/WWMIWS
To be approved by: JCOMM CBS
To be decided by: EC/Congress
Centres designation

Compliance
To be monitored by: JCOMM/WWMIWS
To be reported to: CBS JCOMM
2.2.2.X. Marine Environmental Emergencies
Notes:
1. Operations, including practices, procedures and specifications are described in the Manual
on Marine Meteorological Services (WMO-No. 558);
2. Functions and responsibilities to be defined by the JCOMM/ET-MEER during the

intersessional period;
3. The bodies in charge of managing the information contained in the Manual related to
marine environmental emergencies are specified in the Table below.
Responsibility
Changes to activity specification
To be proposed by: JCOMM/ET-MEER
Centres designation
Compliance
To be monitored by: JCOMM/ET-MEER
To be reported to: CBS JCOMM
Designation of centres and inclusion in Part III of the Manual on the Global Data-
processing and Forecasting System (WMO-No. 485)
1. The World Meteorological Centres are located at:

...
– WMC Offenbach
2. The Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres with geographical specialization are

located at:
...
3. General purpose activities

Provision of global deterministic numerical weather prediction:
...
– RSMC Offenbach
Provision of limited area deterministic weather prediction:

...
Provision of global ensemble numerical weather prediction:
...
– RSMC Offenbach
Provision of limited area ensemble numerical prediction:
...
Provision of Nowcasting
...
– RSMC Hong-Kong
Global Producing Centres for long-range prediction:
...
Global Producing Centres for Annual to Decadal Climate Prediction
– GPC Exeter
– GPC Barcelona
– GPC Montreal
– GPC Offenbach
4. The Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres for specialized activities are the following:
Tropical cyclone forecasting, including marine-related hazards:
...
Provision of atmospheric sandstorm and dust storm forecasts:
...
Provision of atmospheric transport and dispersion modelling (for environmental emergency
response and/or backtracking) – Nuclear :
...
– RSMC Offenbach
Provision of atmospheric transport and dispersion modelling (for environmental emergency
response) – Non-Nuclear;
– RSMC Offenbach
– RSMC Toulouse
Provision of Severe Weather Forecasting
– RSMC Pretoria
– RSMC Wellington
Provision of marine meteorological services
RSMC Exeter RSMC Melbourne

RSMC Toulouse RSMC Tokyo
RSMC Athens RSMC Beijing
RSMC Washington DC RSMC St Petersburg
RSMC Miami RSMC Vladivostok
RSMC Niteroi RSMC Wellington
RSMC Buenos Aires RSMC Valparaiso
RSMC Pretoria RSMC Callao
RSMC New Delhi RSMC Tromsø
RSMC Vacoas RSMC Edmonton

RSMC Karachi RSMC Winnipeg
RSMC La Réunion RSMC Ottawa
Provision of numerical ocean wave prediction

– RSMC Montreal
– RSMC Toulouse
– RSMC Tokyo
Regional climate prediction and monitoring:
...
5. The Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres for non-real-time coordination activities:

...
Lead Centre for coordination of wave forecast verification
– ECMWF
Terms of reference of the Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar and High-
mountain Observations, Research and Services
Noting:
(1) Resolution 16 (EC-69) – Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar and High-mountain
Observations, Research and Services,
(2) Decision 45 (EC-69) – Development and implementation of the Global Cryosphere Watch,
(3) Decision 46 (EC-69) – Development and implementation of the Arctic Polar Regional
Climate Centre Network and of Polar Regional Outlook Forums,
(4) Decision 48 (EC-69) – Polar and high-mountain regions priority activity,
(5) The report of the Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar and High‑mountain
Observations, Research and Services (EC-PHORS) at its eighth session (Levi, Finland,
21–23 March 2018), with proposed changes to the terms of reference of EC-PHORS,
(6) Basic Documents No. 1 (WMO-No. 15),
Considering:
(1) That considerations expressed under Resolution 16 (EC-69) remain valid,
(2) That the polar regions, in particular the Arctic, are experiencing an increase in human
presence and activities, requiring new or enhanced services linked to weather, climate,
water and related environmental matters,
(3) The role of the oceans with regard to changes in the polar regions,
(4) That the Year of Polar Prediction (YOPP) is a good example of an international initiative that
is bringing the polar research, services and operations communities together,
Recognizing:
(1) That in 2017 WMO received observer status to the Arctic Council, and has for several years
been an active invited expert to the Antarctic Treaty and Committee for Environmental
Protection,
(2) The recent high-level engagement of WMO with the Arctic Council and its working groups,
in particular during the Senior Arctic Officials meeting (Levi, Finland, 22 and 23 March
2018) and meetings of the Arctic Council working groups, including the Arctic Contaminants
Action Programme, the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme and the Protection of
the Arctic Marine Environment,
(3) The contribution of WMO to the Sustained Arctic Observing Networks,
(4) That the Arctic Council at its tenth Ministerial Meeting (Fairbanks, Alaska, United States
of America, 11 May 2017) announced the “Agreement on Enhancing International Arctic
Scientific Cooperation, the third legally binding agreement negotiated under the auspices of
the Arctic Council, which will help increase effectiveness and efficiency in the development
of scientific knowledge about the region as well as strengthen scientific cooperation in the
Arctic region, and encourage its implementation by all parties following its entry into force”
(paragraph 33 of the Fairbanks Declaration 2017),
(5) That EC-PHORS at its seventh and eighth sessions recognized the need to improve the
gender balance in the membership of EC-PHORS and the Global Cryosphere Watch (GCW),
(6) The excellent contribution of Finland to WMO in promoting meteorological cooperation

as one of the four priority areas during its period as Chair of the Arctic Council, and the
hosting by Finland of the Arctic Meteorology Summit on 20 March 2018 at the side of the
Senior Arctic Officials meeting,
Decides to amend the terms of reference of EC-PHORS with those proposed by EC-PHORS at
its eighth session, given in the annex to the present resolution;
Invites Members:
(1) To take into account the importance of the gender-balance policy with regard to nominating
experts in EC-PHORS and GCW working structures;
(2) To ensure that YOPP observation and numerical weather prediction data continue to be
available for research and model verification purposes for up to 10 years after the YOPP
core phase has completed; this period is required to ensure that full value can be obtained
from the investment in developing and collecting the data (see EC-70/INF. 9 for detailed
information);
(1) To formally invite the Arctic Council Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme, the
International Arctic Science Committee, the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research,
and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO to participate in EC-
PHORS as members;
(2) To provide the necessary support to activities and sessions of the Panel, including the GCW
working structure, and liaise with relevant international organizations, programmes and
bodies;
(3) To engage the Polar Regional Climate Centres, Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres,
GCW and groups undertaking operational observation network design to participate in the
consolidation phase of YOPP to ensure seamless transition to operations.
Terms of reference of the Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar and High-
mountain Observations, Research and Services
[Note from Secretariat: Below are changes to the Terms of Reference of EC-PHORS compared
to those from Resolution 16 (EC-69). Editorial changes do not appear in track changes for better
readability]
The Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar and High-mountain Observations, Research
and Services (EC-PHORS) shall be composed of members nominated by the Permanent
Representatives of Members, including Parties to the Arctic Council (e.g. indigenous interest),
the Antarctic Treaty, and participants from other organizations that have active meteorological,
hydrological, oceanographic or cryospheric programmes, in particular in the polar and high-
mountain regions.
Observers from other groups may be invited to attend meetings of the Panel.
The Panel is authorized to establish subgroups and task teams as and when required, including
in particular an Antarctic Task Team, a High-mountain Task Team, a Polar Space Task Group, a
GCW Steering Group.
The Panel shall:
(1) Operate under the general terms of reference of Regional Associations with regard
to the WMO activities in Antarctica as spelled out in Annex II of Basic documents
No. 1 (WMO‑No. 15);
(2) Continue advancing the following five key initiatives under the WMO polar and high-
mountain regions priority activity: (a) AntON; (b) the polar Regional Climate Centres
and polar Regional Outlook Forums; (c) GCW; (d) high-mountain region activities; and
(e) GIPPS, including the Polar Prediction Project, and YOPP, as well as relevant research
activities under the World Climate Research Programme;
(3) Emphasise, compile and maintain information on the socioeconomic benefits and cost–
benefit aspects of WMO polar and high-mountain region activities in particular through
outreach activities and by attracting expertise in this field, and engaging and aligning
with existing mechanisms, such as the Societal and Economic Research and Applications
subcommittee of the Polar Prediction Project and the CBS-OPAG/PWSD;
(4) Explore mechanisms to actively engage early career scientists in the delivery of results,
including in collaboration with Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (APECS).
The Panel will undertake:
For Polar Regions:
(a) To develop and promote an integrated approach to understanding the global impact of
changes in polar regions so that the required services may be provided to users and
governments may be advised on aspects of adaptation;
(b) To ensure that operational and research observing networks in polar regions (including
AntON) are integrated within the framework of WIGOS and WIS and are enhanced to
include cryosphere-related variables;
(c) To engage in a concerted effort to involve Members, technical commissions and regional
associations, as well as relevant research and international organizations and bodies, in
improving predictive capability in polar regions on timescales from hours to centuries;
(d) To coordinate WMO interests with other international organizations focused on polar
science and observations, and to work collaboratively as appropriate;
(e) Where other initiatives are identified as aligned with the WMO goals, to engage and
assess their validity and make recommendations to the Executive Council for further
consideration;
(f) To oversee and guide the development and implementation of GCW in collaboration
with technical commissions, regional associations and relevant WMO and international
programmes, organizations, institutions and bodies;
(g) To oversee and guide the Polar Space Task Group, which provides coordination across
space agencies to facilitate acquisition and distribution of fundamental satellite datasets,
and to contribute to or support development of specific derived products for cryospheric
scientific research and applications;
(h) To guide the development of GIPPS in collaboration with technical commissions, regional
associations and relevant international programmes, organizations and bodies;
(i) To provide WMO participation in the implementation of the Arctic Council Agreement on
enhancing international Arctic scientific cooperation;
(j) To facilitate the acquisition, exchange and archiving of observational data from polar
regions in compliance with WIGOS requirements related to instruments, data exchange and
the WMO Quality Management Framework to underpin the provision of services required
for the polar regions;
(k) To provide a forum for discussion of relevant scientific issues and make recommendations
on meteorological, hydrological, oceanographic and cryospheric research and operations
related to the polar regions;
(l) To provide regular input on issues related to polar meteorology, hydrology, oceanography
and the cryosphere to support the activities of relevant groups or bodies, such as the
World Climate Programme, which includes the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS),
the World Climate Research Programme and the World Climate Services Programme;
Global Atmosphere Watch; the World Weather Research Programme; the Global Framework
for Climate Services; and technical commissions, regional associations and programmes;
(m) To ensure close collaboration with and contribute to other international organizations,
committees and programmes concerned, such as the Antarctic Treaty Consultative
Meeting, the Arctic Council, the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research, the
International Arctic Science Committee, the International Association of Cryospheric
Sciences and other relevant associations of the International Union of Geodesy and
Geophysics, the Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programmes, the Forum of Arctic
Research Operators, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of the United
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and the International
Hydrological Programme of UNESCO.
For the Antarctic:
The Panel should cooperate, as appropriate, with other relevant international and regional
entities:
(a) To promote the implementation of the resolutions of Congress and the Executive Council in
the area from 60ºS to 90ºS;
(b) To coordinate programmes of surface and upper-air meteorological observations in the

Antarctic, working with relevant international scientific organizations, and liaise with
regional associations in relation to sub-Antarctic observations;
(c) To coordinate the design of AntON, comprising surface and upper-air stations, including
the GCOS Surface Network, GCOS Upper-air Network, Global Atmosphere Watch and other
relevant observing components;
(d) To coordinate standardization of observing, coding, data exchange and data management
practices applied to the Antarctic;
(e) To propose recommendations to the Parties of the Antarctic Treaty System and Members of
the Committee for Environmental Protection of the Antarctic Treaty.
For the Arctic:
(a) To promote WMO engagement with the Arctic Council and its Working Groups, in particular
for providing appropriate observations and Earth system modelling frameworks in the
Arctic region, supporting climate resilience and adaptation policies, advancing hydrology
and water resources services, and understanding changes in the oceans;
(b) While appropriate functions are covered by the respective regional associations, the Panel
may liaise with them in defining components of Arctic observing systems and services;
(c) To guide, in collaboration with the Commission for Hydrology, the further development of
the Arctic Hydrological Cycle Observing System project;
(d) To hold a third YOPP Special Observing Period (SOP) for the Arctic in the period February
2020 to March 2020, taking into account lessons learned from first YOPP SOP, to
complement the MOSAiC (Multidisciplinary drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic
Climate) project and benefit from the extensive observations during Arctic winter.
For the High-Mountain regions:
(a) To contribute to the work of regional associations, technical commissions and programmes
in defining appropriate components of hydrometeorological and cryospheric observing
systems and services in high mountain regions,
(b) To develop a strategy on WMO high mountain regions focused activities, including by
considering an initiative similar to YOPP for the next financial period to be submitted to
Congress at its eighteenth Session for its consideration.
WMO as an observer with the Arctic Council
(1) That in 2017 WMO was granted observer status at the Arctic Council,
(2) That the Arctic Council has recognized the Arctic meteorological cooperation as one of its
priorities,
Recalling that WMO has already taken an active leadership role on Arctic matters through
its existing working programmes and projects, such as the Global Atmosphere Watch,
Global Cryosphere Watch, Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar and High-mountain
Observations, Research and Services (EC-PHORS) framework and Polar Prediction Project, and
by establishing the Arctic Regional Climate Centre network and the Polar Arctic Climate Outlook
Forum, among others,
Endorses the long-term engagement of WMO with the Arctic Council and its programmes;
Invites EC PHORS, technical commissions and regional associations to collaborate with the
Arctic Council and its working groups in support of policy decisions on Arctic matters, to
achieve well-maintained and sustained observing networks for monitoring changes in the
climate, weather, cryosphere and water resources; for enhancing the broad sharing of data and
information; for addressing the needs of different stakeholders, including different disciplines of
science; and for the development of safety- and sustainability-related services;
Invites Members to actively contribute to the implementation of this resolution;
Requests the Secretary General to ensure sustained engagement with the relevant Arctic
Council programmes, within the existing resources.
Global Cryosphere Watch Surface Observing Network
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 43 (Cg-17) – Global Cryosphere Watch, that decided to mainstream and
implement the Global Cryosphere Watch (GCW) in WMO programmes as a cross-cutting
activity,
(2) Decision 50 (EC-68) – Development of the Global Cryosphere Watch,
Noting:
(1) The recommendations of the report of the Panel of Experts of the Polar and High-mountain
Observations, Research, and Services (EC-PHORS) at its eighth session (Levi, Finland,
21–23 March 2018) (see EC-70/INF. 9),
(2) The provisions of Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Vol I, Part I,
Noting also:
(1) The importance of monitoring the cryosphere for improving the understanding of the
global climate, of the hydrological system, and of sea-level changes, as well as for impact
assessments and for Earth system modelling,
(2) The continuous need for long and more reliable historical cryosphere data from in situ
measurements,
Noting further that the success of GCW depends on the full and sustained integration and
observation-sharing from both National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) and
non-NMHS sources,
(1) That GCW has been successful in engaging both NMHSs and non-NMHS organizations,
academia, and independent research and operational organizations, on achieving the
consistent in situ observation of all components of the cryosphere (snow, glaciers,
permafrost, sea ice, ice sheets, lake and river ice, and icebergs),
(2) The progress made in expanding the interoperability of the GCW Data Portal with major
data centres and the data centres of CryoNet and the GCW contributing stations,
(3) The progress made on the development of regional snow trackers, providing quick
assessments of the current state of the cryosphere,
Decides:
(1) That the name “Global Cryosphere Watch Surface Observing Network” is to be used for the
surface observing component of GCW, being composed of CryoNet, contributing stations,
and stations of GCW-affiliated networks;
(2) That the stations listed in the annex to the present resolution constitute the GCW Surface
Observing Network;
Requests EC-PHORS to further update the Implementation Plan of GCW, in coordination

with technical commissions, regional associations and partner organizations, focusing on
those aspects that will ensure that GCW becomes operational as an end-to-end, cross-cutting
programme during the eighteen financial period;
Requests the technical commissions, in particular the Commission for Basic Systems,
Commission for Climatology, Commission for Hydrology, Commission for Instruments and
Methods of Observation and Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and
Marine Meteorology, to collaborate with the GCW Steering Group in developing technical
standards and guidelines, enabling the sustainable observation of the cryosphere and the
exchange of cryosphere data;
Requests the regional associations to collaborate with the GCW Steering Group and to
encourage Members to participate in, and contribute to GCW activities;
Urges Members:
(1) To secure full implementation of the network of stations set forth in the annex to the
present resolution, as a component of the WMO Integrated Global Observing System
(WIGOS), including by allocating WIGOS IDs;
(2) To record these stations in the Observing System Capability Analysis and Review Tool
(OSCAR)/Surface, to associate these stations with the GCW Surface Observing Network,
and to assist the organizations responsible for these stations, through their OSCAR and
WIGOS focal points;
(3) To maintain, and, where possible, enhance the observing programmes at these stations
with additional cryosphere observations;
(4) To further develop the observing component of GCW, as part WIGOS, especially in data-
sparse regions, in support of application areas relying on cryosphere information;
(5) To comply with the procedures and the data collection standards, as laid down in Technical
Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume I, Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing
System (WMO No. 1160) , Manual on Codes (WMO-No. 306) and Manual on the Global
Telecommunication System (WMO-No. 386) by providing the data in real time, where
required, and as far as practicable;
(6) To make historic research and routine observational data available to the GCW Data Portal
or other appropriate data collection or production centres, and to archive them for climate
purposes;
(7) To ensure that GCW stations within their territory are monitored as a part of the WIGOS
Data Quality Management System framework, and that feedback is given when monitoring
systems detect problems with data or their transmission;
(8) That priority should be given to the development of a strategy to integrate stations
operated by organizations other than NMHSs;
(9) To contribute with human and financial resources to help support the further
implementation of GCW;
Invites partners to collaborate with WMO on sustaining and evolving the GCW Surface
Observing Network;
(1) To take all necessary actions, within available budgetary resources, for the implementation
of GCW and its observing network as a component of WIGOS;
(2) To take the necessary actions to develop and maintain WMO collaboration in matters of
cryosphere, through GCW, with relevant organizations, agencies, groups and institutions,
such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the
International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics, the European Union and the Group on
Earth Observations.
Global Cryosphere Watch Surface Observing Network
1. CryoNet Stations
GCW Member Country

Geographical location
No. Station name Submission of the organization WMO ID
of station
ID operating the station
1 Dome C Concordia air – snow 109 France; Italy Antarctica pending
observatory
2 Adelie Land 42 France Antarctica pending
3 Base Belgrano II 25 Argentina Antarctica 89034
4 Base Esperanza 30 Argentina Antarctica 88963
5 Base Jubany (Carlini) 31 Argentina Antarctica 89053
6 Base Marambio 32 Argentina Antarctica 89055
7 Base Orcadas 33 Argentina Antarctica 88968
8 Base San Martin 34 Argentina Antarctica 89066
9 Davis main AFIN station 96 Australia Antarctica 89571
10 Dome-C Surface-Snow-Meteo 114 Italy Antarctica pending
11 Halley 197 United Kingdom Antarctica 89022
12 Juan Carlos I 122 Spain Antarctica 89064
13 Rothera 192 United Kingdom Antarctica 89062
14 Syowa 63 Japan Antarctica 89532
15 Aonikenk 54 Argentina Argentina pending
16 AWS Pasterze 136 Austria Austria pending
17 AWS-Kleinfleisskees 141 Austria Austria pending
18 Goldbergkees 133 Austria Austria pending
19 Jamtalferner 148 Austria Austria pending
20 Kleinfleisskees 134 Austria Austria pending
21 Pasterze 136 Austria Austria pending
22 Sonnblick Observatory 138 Austria Austria 11146
23 Zongo Glacier 23 France; Plurinational State pending
Plurinational State of Bolivia
of Bolivia
24 Bjelasnica 107 Bosnia and Bosnia and 14652
Herzegovina Herzegovina
25 Ivan Sedlo 108 Bosnia and Bosnia and 14650
Herzegovina Herzegovina
26 ALERT CLIMATE 184 Canada Canada 71355
27 Bow Hut 204 Canada Canada pending
28 CAMBRIDGE BAY GSN 185 Canada Canada 71288
29 CHURCHILL CLIMATE 186 Canada Canada 71696
30 Eureka (MSC) 18 Canada Canada 71913
31 NEIGE-FM 191 Canada Canada 71212
32 INUVIK CLIMATE 187 Canada Canada 71364
33 IQALUIT CLIMATE 188 Canada Canada 71321
34 Peyto Lower Ice 203 Canada Canada pending
35 Kluane Lake Research Station 93 Canada Canada pending
(KLRS)
36 Peyto Main 202 Canada Canada pending
GCW Member Country

of station
37 Peyto Outlet New 206 Canada Canada pending
38 RESOLUTE CS 190 Canada Canada 71018
39 Valle Nevado 68 Chile Chile pending
40 Haxilegen Galcier No. 51 179 China China pending
station
41 Jimunai station 180 China China pending
42 Laohugou station 174 China China pending
43 Miaoergou Ice Cap Station 177 China China pending
44 Muz Taw glacier station 181 China China pending
45 Qilian 16 China China pending
46 Suli station 175 China China pending
47 Tanggula 49 China China pending
48 Urumqi Glacier No.1 station 176 China China pending
49 Xidatan 48 China China pending
50 Glaciar Conejeras 43 Colombia Colombia pending
51 Anogia-Psiloritis 210 Greece Crete/Greece pending
52 Chania-White Mountains 209 Greece Crete/Greece pending
53 Antisana 15 alfa 21 Ecuador Ecuador pending
54 Pallas-Kenttarova 131 Finland Finland 5824
55 Sodankyla Intensive 126 Finland Finland pending
Observation Area (IOA)
56 Sodankyla Sounding Station 128 Finland Finland 2836
57 Argentiere Glacier 45 France France pending
58 Col de Lac Blanc 117 France France pending
59 Col de Porte 70 France France pending
60 Saint-Sorlin Glacier 44 France France pending
61 A.P. Olsen Ice Cap 168 Denmark Greenland pending
62 PROMICE KAN_L 159 Denmark Greenland pending
63 PROMICE KAN_M 160 Denmark Greenland pending
64 PROMICE KAN_U 161 Denmark Greenland pending
65 PROMICE KPC_L 166 Denmark Greenland pending
66 PROMICE KPC_U 167 Denmark Greenland pending
67 PROMICE NUK_L 158 Denmark Greenland pending
68 PROMICE QAS_L 156 Denmark Greenland pending
69 PROMICE QAS_U 157 Denmark Greenland pending
70 PROMICE SCO_L 151 Denmark Greenland pending
71 PROMICE SCO_U 152 Denmark Greenland pending
72 PROMICE TAS_A 155 Denmark Greenland pending
73 PROMICE TAS_L 153 Denmark Greenland pending
74 PROMICE THU_L 164 Denmark Greenland pending
75 PROMICE THU_U 165 Denmark Greenland pending
76 PROMICE UPE_L 162 Denmark Greenland pending
77 PROMICE UPE_U 163 Denmark Greenland pending
78 SIGMA-A 62 Japan Greenland pending
79 SIGMA-B 61 Japan Greenland pending
80 Hofsjökull Ice Cap 149 Iceland Iceland pending
81 Hveravellir 150 Iceland Iceland 4156
GCW Member Country

of station
82 AWS1 FORNI 67 Italy Italy pending
83 Snow and Ice Research Center, 201 Japan Japan pending
NIED
84 Tavanbogd 91 Mongolia Mongolia pending
85 Mera 95 Nepal; France Nepal pending
86 Hellstugubreen 170 Norway Norway pending
87 Langfjordjøkelen 193 Norway Norway pending
88 Dammay, Bagrot AWS (Chira 115 Pakistan Pakistan pending
glacier)
89 Khama Bagrot AWS(Hinarchi 120 Pakistan Pakistan pending
Glacier)
90 Quelccaya Ice Cap 35 United States Peru pending
91 Ice Base Cape Baranova 51 Russian Federation Russian Federation 20094
92 Tiksi 50 Russian Federation Russian Federation 21824
93 Spasskaya Pad (Yakutsk) 66 Japan Russian Federation pending
94 Formigal-Sarrios 72 Spain Spain pending
95 Davos Laret (LAR) 194 Switzerland Switzerland pending
96 Davos SLF (SLF) 77 Switzerland Switzerland pending
97 Davos SwissMetNet AWS (DAV) 98 Switzerland Switzerland 0-
20000-
0-06784
98 Dischma Chaiseren (DMAC) 195 Switzerland Switzerland pending
99 Dischma Dürrboden (DMAD) 196 Switzerland Switzerland pending
100 Fluela permafrost station (FLU) 39 Switzerland Switzerland pending
101 IMIS Parsenn 2 automatic 99 Switzerland Switzerland pending
station (PAR2)
102 Stillberg station (STILL) 79 Switzerland Switzerland pending
103 Weissfluhjoch Versuchsfeld 74 Switzerland Switzerland pending
(WFJV)
104 Kilimanjaro Northern Icefield 200 United States United Republic of pending
Tanzania
105 Barrow Baseline Observatory 55 United States United States 70026-0
2. GCW Contributing Stations
GCW Member Country

Geographical
location of station
1 Dome C GLACIOCLIM SAMBA 110 France Antarctica pending
stakes network north
2 Dome C GLACIOCLIM SAMBA 111 France Antarctica pending
stakes network south
3 Traub Glacier ( Quito ) 22 Ecuador Antarctica pending
4 ARA Almirante Irizar 29 Argentina Antarctica, LOAI
Southern Ocean
5 ARA Canal de Beagle 28 Argentina Antarctica, LOCB
Southern Ocean
6 ARA Puerto Deseado 27 Argentina Antarctica, LOPD
Southern Ocean
GCW Member Country

Geographical
location of station
7 ARA Suboficial Castillo 26 Argentina Antarctica, LOCS
Southern Ocean
8 Morenas Coloradas Rockglacier 24 Argentina Argentina pending
9 Vuriloches 53 Argentina Argentina pending
10 AWS Fraganter Scharte 140 Austria Austria pending
11 Kolm Saigurn 135 Austria Austria pending
12 Wintergasse 139 Austria Austria pending
13 Wurtenkees 137 Austria Austria pending
14 Peyto Middle Ice 207 Canada Canada pending
15 Peyto Upper Ice 208 Canada Canada pending
16 Mocho-Choshuenco Volcano 69 Chile Chile pending
17 Fuyun station 183 China China pending
18 Kanas station 182 China China pending
19 Lower Station 172 China China pending
20 Middle Station 173 China China pending
21 Qingbingtan 72 Glacier station 172 China China pending
22 Terminus Station 171 China China pending
23 Sodankyla Lake Orajarvi 129 Finland Finland pending
24 Sodankyla Peatland 130 Finland Finland pending
25 Col 147 France France pending
26 Dome 119 France France pending
27 Gebroulaz Glacier 47 France France pending
28 La Muzelle 118 France France pending
29 Mer de Glace Glacier 46 France France pending
30 PROMICE TAS_U 154 Denmark Greenland pending
31 Zackenberg Research Station 169 Denmark Greenland pending
32 Filefjell/Kyrkjestølane 199 Norway Norway pending
33 Rabben Station in Ny-Alesund 19 Japan Norway/ Svalbard 1007
(closed)
34 Angel Orus 127 Spain Spain pending
35 Bachimana 125 Spain Spain pending
36 Goriz 121 Spain Spain pending
37 LLauset 124 Spain Spain pending
38 Renclusa 123 Spain Spain pending
39 Bueschalp observer station 78 Switzerland Switzerland pending
(5DB)
40 Klosters Kraftwerk observer 105 Switzerland Switzerland pending
station (5KK)
41 Klosters RhB observer station 104 Switzerland Switzerland pending
(5KR)
42 Matta Frauenkirch observer 103 Switzerland Switzerland pending
station (5MA)
43 NIME station Dischma (DMA) 143 Switzerland Switzerland pending
44 NIME station Monstein (MST) 144 Switzerland Switzerland pending
45 Scaletta Glacier (SCAL) 145 Switzerland Switzerland pending
46 Silvretta Glacier (SILV) 81 Switzerland Switzerland pending
47 Verstancla Glacier (VERST) 146 Switzerland Switzerland pending
GCW Member Country

Geographical
location of station
48 Weissfluhjoch SwissMetNet 75 Switzerland Switzerland 0-20000-
AWS (WFJ) 0-06780
The 2018 review of the World Climate Research Programme
Recalling that the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) was established in 1980
under the joint sponsorship of the International Council for Science (ICSU) and WMO; that
in 1993 the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization also became a sponsor, and that the joint
agreement signed between the three co-sponsors in 1993 provides the definition of the WCRP
financial, governance and institutional arrangements that enable the international planning and
coordination of the Programme,
Appreciating the review of WCRP conducted by a review panel established by co‑sponsors and
concluded in early 2018,
Recognizing that since its inception, the key strength of WCRP has been its focus on cutting-
edge physical climate science where international coordination enables scientific advances that
would not happen otherwise,
Recognizing also that WCRP and other WMO research programmes under the Commission
for Atmospheric Sciences (CAS) (the World Weather Research Programme (WWRP) and Global
Atmosphere Watch (GAW)) draw on the capabilities of a large science community beyond the
National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs), and that those capabilities are
fundamental for advancing the WMO strategy for service delivery,
Noting that research needs to be better integrated and more closely coordinated across
weather, climate, water and related environmental domains to provide the necessary scientific
and technical advances needed to address the growing need for targeted and societally relevant
services and to create an attractive environment in which NMHSs, academic institutions, the
private sector and end users can engage in research to their mutual benefit,
Noting also that the transition process in WMO constituent bodies will create opportunities
for developing a broader umbrella for Earth system sciences across technical commissions and
WMO and co-sponsored research programmes,
Having examined the outcome of the review and also the report by the review panel
Chairperson, Ms Julia Slingo, including recommendations on the future WCRP strategy,
structure, governance, operations, financing and partnerships, in order to effectively deliver
WCRP to meet the evolving needs for climate science in support of policy and services,
Mindful of the role of the WCRP Joint Scientific Committee to provide science leadership, to
develop the science strategy and oversee its implementation, and to build a strong community
of international scientists to work on grand challenge problems that require international
coordination,
Appreciating also the progress that has been made on developing the WCRP strategy and
making it available for a broad community consultation,
Appreciating further that the president of CAS and the scientific leadership of GAW,
WCRP and WWRP have already initiated a consultation process to strengthen their strategic
partnerships and initiate co-design of relevant research programmes,
Endorses the recommendations of the review provided in the annex to the present resolution;
Urges the Chairperson of the WCRP Joint Scientific Committee to give strong consideration to
recommendations 1, 3, 5, 7 and 8 in the future strategic and implementation plans of WCRP,
working closely with WWRP, GAW, the Global Climate Observing System, the Global Framework
for Climate Services as well as Future Earth;
Requests the Second Vice-President of WMO, with support from the Secretary-General:
(1) To facilitate the consultation with the officers of WCRP co-sponsors ICSU and IOC in
preparation for the approval by the Executive Council of the new WCRP Science Strategy
and Implementation Plan, taking note of review recommendations 2, 4 and 6 directed
towards the governance, support and financing of WCRP, with guidance from the WCRP
Joint Scientific Committee;
(2) To consult with the officers of WCRP co-sponsors ICSU and IOC on the most effective
mechanisms for the governance of WCRP;
Requests the Secretary-General, together with the executive heads of other WCRP co-
sponsors, to actively engage in resource mobilization initiatives to support the Programme;
Calls upon Members to actively support WCRP activities and promote the WCRP role at a
national level as the primary global climate research coordination programme.
Recommendations of the review of the World Climate Research Programme
The full report of the 2018 WCRP Review with executive summary and recommendations is
available at EC-70/INF. 10.2.
Recommendation 1: Science Strategy
A new 10-year WCRP science strategy and related 5-year implementation plan must be
developed as soon as possible in discussion with the sponsors and with wide consultation and
community buy-in.
Recommendation 2: Governance and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
The Review Panel recommends that a formal high-level Governing Board for WCRP be
established to enable more effective engagement with the co-sponsors and enable them to fulfil
their responsibilities for the programme. A new MoU should be put in place to reflect changes in
governance, operations and structure.
Recommendation 3: Scientific Leadership
The Review Panel recommends that the Joint Scientific Committee (JSC) should be reinvigorated
to focus on providing science leadership, setting the science strategy and overseeing its
implementation, including establishing partnerships, and building a strong community of
international scientists to work on grand challenge research problems that require international
coordination.
Recommendation 4: Operations
The Review Panel recommends that additional clarity be provided in the terms of reference,
structure and functions of the Joint Planning Staff (JPS) and the Director of the WCRP, to
ensure that the JPS works effectively with the JSC to support its scientific activities, to facilitate
international engagement and partnerships, and to manage WCRP resources.
Recommendation 5: Structure
The JSC, in consultation with the newly created Governing Board, should work with the science
community to establish a new structure for the WCRP research effort that best serves its new
strategy and involves a simplified set of delivery mechanisms.
Recommendation 6: Financing
In light of the importance to society of the goals of WCRP and the precarious level of current
financial support for the programme, the co-sponsors should redouble their efforts to support
WCRP financially at a higher level of enabling funding so that it can operate more effectively.
Recommendation 7: Science to service
WCRP should take action to ensure its knowledge is brought to the service of society, especially
in supporting the development of climate services.
Recommendation 8: Partnership
WCRP should seek to develop strategic and strong partnerships with other WMO research
programmes (specifically WWRP and GAW), GCOS, and Future Earth.
Education and training
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 51 (Cg-17) – Education and Training Programme, on the guiding principles of the
Programme,
(2) Resolution 52 (Cg-17) – Recognition and reconfirmation of WMO Regional Training Centres,
(3) Resolution 8 (EC-68) – Amendments to Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume I,
(4) Decision 64 (EC-68) – Reconfirmation of the Institute of Biometeorology (Florance, Italy)

as WMO Regional Training Centre,
(5) Decision 56 (EC-69) – WMO Regional Training Centres,
Taking note of the request of the Permanent Representative of Spain on designation of the
Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET) as a WMO Regional Training Center (RTC) in Spain,
Having considered the recommendations of the Executive Council Panel of Experts on

Education and Training (EC-PEET) to designate AEMET as an RTC (see EC-70/INF. 11.1),
Taking note also of the request of the Permanent Representative of Argentina on the
designation of the Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Hídricas (FICH) of the Universidad Nacional
del Litoral (UNL) as a component of the WMO RTC in Argentina; and that of the Permanent
Represantive of Peru on the designation of the Servicio Nacional de Meteorología e Hidrología
(SENAMHI) as a component of the WMO RTC in Peru,
Having also considered the recommendations of the president of Regional Association III and
of EC-PEET,
Decides:
(1) To designate AEMET as an RTC in Spain;
(2) To designate FICH of UNL as the third component of the RTC in Argentina;
(3) To designate SENAMHI as the second component of the RTC in Peru;
(4) To reconfirm the RTC in Algeria based on the recommendation made by EC-PEET;
(5) To extend the reconfirmation of the RTCs in Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Kenya, Madagascar,
Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Russian Federation, South Africa and Turkey as RTCs until
subsequent Executive Council decisions following the conclusions of ongoing or future
external reviews by EC-PEET.
Review plan for the Basic Instructional Package

for Meteorologists and the Basic Instructional Package
for Meteorological Technicians
Recalling Resolution 32 (Cg-XVI) – Definition of a meteorologist and meteorological

technician, calling for a replacement of Guidelines for the Education and Training of Personnel
in Meteorology and Operational Hydrology (WMO-No. 258), Volume I – Meteorology; and the
subsequent publication of Guide to the Implementation of Education and Training Standards in
Meteorology and Hydrology (WMO-No. 1083), Volume I – Meteorology, in 2015,
Noting the recommendations from the Thirteenth WMO Symposium on Education and Training
(SYMET‑13) (29 October–1 November 2017) and the recommendation of the Executive Council
Panel of Experts on Education and Training (EC-PEET) to begin a review process of the current
Basic Instructional Package for Meteorologists (BIP-M) and for Basic Instructional Package for
Meteorological Technicians (BIP-MT) (see EC-70/INF. 11.1),
Requests the Secretary-General, working with EC-PEET, to review BIP-M and BIP-MT, with
particular attention to scientific advancements, skills required for identifying and communicating
user impacts, utilization of upstream seamless data and products, management development,
and socioeconomic and other relevant societal issues.
Public–private engagement
Recalling:
(1) Decision 73 (EC-68) – Cooperation between the public and private sectors for the benefit
of society,
(2) Decision 61 (EC-69) – Public–private engagement: A road map to the Eighteenth World
Acknowledging recent events and developments involving discussions on public–private

engagement (PPE) and the global weather enterprise (GWE),
Expresses support to the allocation of additional resources by the Secretary-General to

ensure timely follow-up on the agreed roadmap and to facilitate a constructive dialogue with
stakeholders from the private sector;
Endorses the Policy Framework for Public–Private Engagement, presented in the annex to the
present resolution, as a guiding document for Members pursuing cooperation with non-State
entities aimed, inter alia, at supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda
2030, the Paris Agreement, and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction;
Acknowledges the establishment of a Global Weather Enterprise Forum supported by WMO,

the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery of the World Bank, and the Association
of the Hydro-Meteorological Equipment Industry (HMEI), as a consultative platform among
various stakeholders in the public, private and academic sectors, to steer the dialogue between
the sectors, consider necessary coordinated actions to address the growth of GWE, and derive
recommendations for consideration by relevant bodies, including WMO;
Agrees that there is urgent need for thorough preparation of a high-level policy on GWE and
PPE for consideration by the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress, in order to update
existing policy and guidance documents, including the Geneva Declaration of the Thirteenth
World Meteorological Congress (1999) and Annexes 2 and 3 to Resolution 40 (Cg-XII);
Also agrees that the activities related to GWE and PPE should be closely coordinated with
the efforts for new partnerships with development finance institutions, with a strong focus on
developing sustainable business models and PPE to achieve the strategic objective of closing the
capacity gap between developed and developing countries;
Requests presidents of regional associations and technical commissions:
(1) To assist in awareness, communication and outreach activities related to GWE and PPE,
and sessions of regional associations and technical commissions;
(2) To invite broad participation of experts from the private sector to the technical commission
sessions, and technical or regional conferences to ensure the views of these sectors are
considered;
(1) In view of the ongoing dialogue with the private sector, to provide regular policy briefs to
the Executive Council and to Members on PPE, including lessons learnt and recommended
national practices;
(2) To continue to allocate resources to support engagement in the ongoing activities related
to GWE and PPE through existing or new working mechanisms with relevant partner
organizations.
Policy Framework for Public–Private Engagement
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Global factors
WMO, as a United Nations organization, is driven by the Global UN agenda. Today, it is based
on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted in 2015 with its 17 Sustainable
Development Goals (SDG). The achievement of the 2030 SDGs will require different sectors and
actors working together in an integrated manner by pooling financial resources, knowledge and
expertise. The new development era with 17 intertwined SDGs and 169 associated targets as a
blue print for achieving the sustainable ‘Future We Want’, cross sectorial and innovative multi-
stakeholder partnerships will play a crucial role for meeting the targets by the year 2030.
Sustainable Development Goal 17, which reads “Strengthen the means of implementation and
revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development”, recognizes multi-stakeholder
partnerships as important vehicles for mobilizing and sharing knowledge, expertise technologies
and financial resources to support the achievement of the SDGs in all countries, particularly
developing countries. Goal 17 further seeks to encourage effective partnerships between public,
private and academic sectors, as well as civil society, building on the experience and resourcing
strategies of partnerships.
The majority of United Nations organizations have adapted, or are in the process of adapting,
their respective strategies and/or policies to reflect the 2030 Agenda.
1.2 WMO context
WMO Congress defined ‘partnership’ as working with international agencies, other

organizations, academia, the media and the private sector to improve the range, quality and
delivery of critical environmental information and services. WMO partnerships, some of which
were formed decades ago, are in concert with the rolling WMO Strategic Plan which maintains a
strategic objective ‘Strengthened Partnerships’ with the realization that new and strengthened
partnerships and cooperation activities are needed to improve NMHSs’ performance in
delivering services and to demonstrate the value of WMO contributions within the United
Nations system, relevant regional organizations, international conventions and national
strategies.
An important milestone in the WMO history of partnerships with non-State entities was the
adoption by the Twelfth World Meteorological Congress (1995) of a policy on, and a new practice
for, the international exchange of meteorological data and products (Resolution 40 (Cg-XII)).
An annex to Resolution 40 provided “Guidelines for relations between National Meteorological
or Hydrometeorological Services and the commercial sector”. It was clearly stated in these
guidelines that the purpose was “to further improve the relationship between NMSs and the
commercial sector. The development of the exchange of meteorological and related information
depends greatly upon sound, fair, transparent, and stable relations between these two sectors.”
The WMO World Weather Open Science Conference (WWOSC) held in Montreal, August 2014,
put a special focus on the need for a broad dialogue between the public and private sectors,
with a strong engagement of academia and other relevant entities, such as learned societies,
to respond to the changing landscape of the weather, climate and hydrological science and
services, which could be best described as a Global Weather Enterprise. The outcomes of
the WWOSC discussions encouraged the conduct of a series of multi-stakeholder follow-up

dialogues supported by the WMO and partner organizations, such as the Global Facility for
Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR) of the World Bank Group and the Association of
Hydro-Meteorological Equipment Industry (HMEI).
The Seventeenth World Meteorological Congress (Cg-17 (2015)) gave a new perspective to
partnerships by acknowledging the growing involvement of entities which can be identified as
belonging to the “private sector” (private companies, citizen’s associations, bloggers, etc.) in
weather, climate, water and related environmental matters. These private sector entities have
been active to a varying extent in the full value chain of activities, starting with observations;
extending to data acquisition tools and technologies, information generation and processing
technologies; and culminating in product dissemination and services. Congress thus recognized
this part of the private sector as a set of stakeholders in end-to-end service delivery supporting
the WMO vision, mandate and objectives. Congress highlighted the different, and at times,
complementary roles and responsibilities of NMHSs, academic institutions, research and
technological agencies, and the private sector. It was felt that closer interactions between
the public and private sectors would stimulate innovation and facilitate cross-fertilization,
ultimately benefitting the society. Congress noted that WMO had a unique opportunity to
initiate such an interaction and emphasized that inaction may limit the benefits to be derived
for the users. On the other hand, such activities could also lead to proliferation of weather and
climate information of various nature and quality which could challenge the NMHSs mandate
to disseminate authoritative weather information and warnings to the public and disaster
management authorities as well as the rest of the enterprise in delivering on their missions.
It was also recognized that the private sector initiatives do increase the availability of weather
services for the citizens; it was of paramount concern to ensure the sustainability of NMHSs
over time.
Acknowledging the challenges, Cg-17 recognized that WMO guidance on engagement with
the private sector would help NMHSs to keep pace with the activities at the national and
international levels and enhance efficiency and service delivery, including in support of the
development of observational and communication infrastructures at the local and regional level.
Following the directives given by the Cg-17, several activities have been undertaken with
the aim to build awareness and improve the understanding between the public, private and
academic sectors. The 68th Session of WMO Executive Council (2016) held for the first time a
Special Dialogue on the “complementary and cooperative contributions of public and private
sector institutions to meteorology and hydrology”. In 2017, EC-69 adopted “A Roadmap to the
Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress on the Public-Private Engagement (PPE)”. A key
element of this Roadmap is the development of a WMO Policy Framework on PPE which would
assist Members and stakeholders from all sectors by providing a set of guiding principles and
highlighting the challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed in order to harness the
potential benefits from working together for the benefit of society.
2. OBJECTIVES OF THE POLICY FRAMEWORK
The Policy Framework for Public-Private Engagement guides global, regional and national action
by the World Meteorological Organization and its Members to promote active engagement
between the public, private and academic sectors, and all stakeholders to successfully manage
and participate in the Global Weather Enterprise. It outlines principles and guidelines aimed at
maximizing the benefits of an inclusive weather-enterprise approach.
Developed in line with Resolution 67 (Cg-17) and Decisions 73 (EC-68) and 61 (EC-69), the
Policy Framework outlines:
(a) The current potential for public-private engagement in the context of the Global Weather
Enterprise;
(b) Principles for public-private sector engagement based on the “Key Issues to be addressed
in developing policies and principles for engagement” (Annex 2 to Decision 73 (EC-68));
(c) Evolving roles at stakeholders at global regional and national levels;
(d) Options for guiding public-private partnerships and directions for development of WMO
guidance to Members.
This framework is intended to serve as a first step in ongoing work to address these issues
and shape a robust way forward in a changing environment. It aims to build understanding
and enhance cooperation among stakeholders to sustain and expand the weather enterprise
and to maximize its benefits to society in the short- and long-term. The framework seeks to
strengthen and enhance opportunities for Members, their NMHSs and the private sector, on the
basis of ethical behaviour to ensure a level playing field, enable efficiency and innovation, and
utilize an inclusive approach to funding fundamental infrastructure and research.
The framework supports and builds upon the WMO Convention, existing policies and related
regulations and guidance. The Convention has ensured the world’s nations do cooperate to
create and sustain an international system to observe and predict weather, climate and water;
provide reliable information and services to support effective decision-making; reduce the loss
of life and property; further sustainable development; and preserve the environment and the
global climate for present and future generations of humankind.
3. PUBLIC-PRIVATE ENGAGEMENT IN THE GLOBAL WEATHER ENTERPRISE
The need for a WMO Policy Framework on PPE stems from the realization of a new landscape in
all business areas covered by the WMO Convention, which form the value chain of the weather,
climate and hydrological services.
The flow of activities along this value chain and the interconnections between its modules need
to be further analysed in the context of the Global Weather Enterprise. This would allow to
identify potential for gaining efficiency and improving quality through partnership arrangements
with the participation from all sectors, in particular, partnerships that will enable bridging
existing gaps in capacity and access to essential information and products in the developing
part of the world.
3.1 Historic perspective
An enterprise notion and multi-stakeholder approach could be traced back deeply in the roots
of the WMO and its preceding international cooperation initiatives. It is seen in one of the first
meeting invitations send to the international meteorological communities:
“We venture by the present circular to invite the heads of Meteorological Institutes, the
Meteorological and other Learned Societies, as well as private scientific men and practical
observers in the domain of Meteorology, to this consultative meeting, which is to be held in
Leipzig …”
From the invitation letter to the Meteorological Conference at Leipzig,5 August 1872
The weather enterprise of the 20th century was primarily based on public sector investments.
WMO Member States collectively built a global infrastructure under a globally coordinated World
Weather Watch (WWW) Programme, composed by three global systems – the Global Observing
System (GOS), the Global Telecommunication System (GTS) and the Global Data Processing
and Forecasting System (GDPFS). WWW has been realized and made operational on a 365/24/7
basis through an agreed set of global standards for observations, data processing and service
delivery which ensured the needed harmonization and interoperability. A number of global and
regional centres hosted by NMSs formed the backbone of the communication and numerical
modelling needed for the forecasting of the main atmospheric variables. States cooperated,
coordinated and collectively invested in building the expensive satellite segment of the Global
Observing System.
While the WWW was a predominantly a public sector endeavour, it would not have been
successful without an essential scientific and technological support from the academia and the
private industry. At that stage, the participation of the private sector in the service delivery was
generally limited with the exception of several countries, where private companies have become
prominent mostly in the provision of weather services to media outlets.
Significant changes in the weather enterprise structure started happening during the last 10–
15 years. While this change is evident across the globe its manifestations vary greatly by region
and country. Five primary factors are influencing change:
(a) Scientific and technological innovation;
(b) Growing demand for meteorological, climatological, hydrological, marine and related
environmental products and services from commercial interests, the general public and
government sector;
(c) Global action for adaptation to climate change and the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals;
(d) Public-sector institutional and resource constraints;
(e) Private-sector increased involvement and investment, consolidation and globalization.
These factors shape the processes within the global weather enterprise with a pronounced
trend of accelerating growth in terms of stakeholder participation and financial turnover.
Amidst this change, it remains in the interest of all parties to have a robust national and
global meteorological and hydrological infrastructure, as this forms the information backbone
of the global weather enterprise. This requires all countries to reaffirm their commitments
and acceptance to their responsibilities in funding and operating national observing networks
and communication means, adherence to respective standards and procedures necessary to
sustain a global sharing of requisite and quality assured. Substantial internationally coordinated
scientific and research effort underpins the operational systems and ensures their evolution
with uptake of innovation, as well as continuous human capacity-building through education and
training.
From being mostly engaged in manufacturing equipment and providing media services, recently,
the private sector involvement has been rapidly growing in all aspects of meteorological and
hydrological services, including a number of companies building ‘end-to-end’ capability with
regional and global coverage. Such a growth is substantially expanding both opportunities and
challenges for all players, including the NMHSs.
5
Leipzig Conference (1872) prepared the way for holding, in Vienna in 1873, the First International Meteorological
Congress, which established the International Meteorological Organization (IMO), the predecessor of the WMO.
3.2 Evolving roles
The impact of these changes on the current institutional arrangements widely accepted by
WMO Members for the collection, processing, and exchange of meteorological, hydrological,
climatological and other environmental data, as well as for the generation and provision of
respective information and services, could be far-reaching. The potential exists to improve
the efficacy and reach of warnings, forecasts and other services within societies around the
world. At the same time, concerns have been raised that these changes might erode the core
observational assets usually managed by NMHSs, as well as their status, funding and modes
of operation. Such erosion could impact sustained long-term, national observing capabilities,
and thereby harm national and global climate monitoring. There could be risks to the role of
NMHSs as the single national authoritative voice for severe weather warnings and other core
governmental purposes, all of which could have negative impacts on end users and other
stakeholders of the weather enterprise. There are numerous case studies and practices present
in various parts of the community today and examples from other sectors that can inform best
practices for effective PPE to mitigate these risks.
Within the weather enterprise, national, regional and international institutions and business
models vary greatly. All stakeholders, however, contribute to the core mission of the enterprise
to help protect life and property, to help foster economic growth, and to improve quality of
life. Government, private sector, academia and civil society all play important roles. By its
Convention, WMO plays a key role in understanding and facilitating the contributions of Member
countries and their weather enterprise stakeholders.
Historically, the public sector has led funding and development of the backbone infrastructure of
the weather enterprise. The development of observational networks and provision of weather,
climate and hydrological services have been considered as national governments obligations
as “public goods”.6 Recently, technological changes and changes in users’ requirements have
provided new opportunities for the private sector to contribute to the provision of those services
in support of public interest as well as to meet specific stakeholder needs.
In the case of weather services, one of its distinguishing characteristics is its dependence on
observational data from around the globe. No one nation could provide even basic services to
its citizens without continuous, real-time access to such data internationally. While investments
in obtaining these observations are made at the national level, the collective benefits only
accrue if: (i) a sufficiently large number of nations decide to make these investments; and
(ii) these nations share the resulting data with each other. Members have invested in public
sector institutions because weather, climate and hydrological services have proved essential
to the safety and security of their citizens; a fundamental role of government. These factors
should still be true even in the case of both public and private sectors contributing to collection
of data.
At the same time, the private sector is also a valued contributor in well-being of nations and
has been active in the weather enterprise for decades across all elements of the value chain.
It serves a number of very important roles, including as a source of investment, a driver of
technological development and innovation, a partner in service development and delivery, and
an engine for economic growth and employment.
4. PRINCIPLES OF ENGAGEMENT
A major role of the Policy Framework is to establish a set of basic principles to provide
directions, express responsibilities and goals. The PPE policy framework steps on the core
values and goals of the WMO as an organization, and serves two main tasks: to guide an
6
Public goods, in economic terms, are those that exhibit the following two characteristics: Non-rivalry of
consumption – one person’s consumption does not reduce the amount available to others; and Non-excludability –
it is impossible or extremely expensive to exclude from benefit a person or organization that refuses to contribute
to the cost. These two characteristics mean that even in free-market economies, market processes do not provide
them, or do not provide them at socially optimal levels.
effective engagement of the public, private and academic sectors in the GWE, and to guide
Members’ intentions and efforts in expanding the public-private-academic partnerships for
ensuring better service to their governments, business and citizens.
These principles will provide a framework to facilitate the formulation and implementation of
partnerships between the WMO and the business sector, respectively, between the NMHS and
private sector at country level, while safeguarding the integrity, impartiality and independence
of the WMO and preventing and mitigating potential risks of adverse impacts on core mandates
and services.
4.1 ‘People First’ principle
Recognizing the core mandate of supporting local-to-global decisions related to saving life,
property and economic productivity, by providing essential, meteorological, climatological,
hydrological and environmental information, WMO adheres to the “People First”7 approach to
public-private engagement and partnerships promoted by the UN Economic Commission for
Europe (UNECE) and widely accepted as a vehicle to achieve the UN SDGs.
‘People-first’ principle sets out a clear statement that out of all the stakeholders, ‘people’ should
be the priority and main beneficiary. The focus of PPE and PPPs in the context of the GWE
should be on improving the safety and quality of life of communities, particularly those that
are fighting poverty. GWE partnerships should provide increased access to essential, affordable
and fit-for-purpose products and services for all, thus contributing to resolve vulnerabilities and
sensitivities to weather and climate impacts, which in turn would strengthen the enterprise by
creating new demand and opportunities for weather, climate and hydrological services.
WMO contributes to this ‘People-first’ principle with its programmes supporting meteorological
and hydrological service providers including NMHSs with free and open available data and
products.
4.2 WMO Guidelines on commercial relations
Commercial weather activities have been growing in the last two decades of the 20th
century. WMO had the challenge to find a solution to crucial issues facing WMO and the world
meteorological community: how to maintain and improve the free exchange of meteorological
data and products whilst safeguarding the economic concerns of Members and the development
of their national Meteorological Services.
In response to this, Congress adopted a policy showing that WMO was committing itself to
broadening and enhancing the free and unrestricted international exchange of meteorological
and related data and products. This policy, known as Resolution 40 (Cg-XII), provided also
“guidelines for relations between national meteorological or hydrometeorological services
(NMSs) and the commercial sector” (Annex 3 to Resolution 40 (Cg-XII), with the understanding
that the development of the exchange of meteorological and related information depends
greatly upon sound, fair, transparent, and stable relations between the public and ‘commercial’8
sectors. While dating back to more than 20 years now, most of the generic guidance on the
relations between the non-commercial (or non-for-profit) entities and commercial entities,
co-existing in the data and service delivery domains, remain valid in their attempt to ‘urge’
the sectors ‘to recognize the interdependence and mutual benefit possible from cooperative
interaction. However, it has also been recognized that adoption and application of these
guidelines is highly variable.
4.3 Mutual benefit
A successful GWE builds on both public sector and private sector contributions, and each sector
contributes to the success of the other. While the public sector is more likely to invest in long-
7
Promoting People first Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for the UN SDGs, UNECE, July 2016
8
Resolution 40 uses the term ‘commercial sector’ with the understanding that the guidelines apply to the commercial
sector engaged in meteorological activities, which includes government organizations engaged in commercial
meteorological activities.
term programmes and underpinning core infrastructure, such as that required to deliver the
sustained, high quality climate record, the private sector can be more responsive to selected
investment in data gaps to meet special needs and application of emerging technologies.
The public sector's deep understanding and trusted connection with its user community is
critical to assured community safety through responsiveness to authoritative warnings, while
the capacity and technological agility of the private sector can present opportunities to meet
novel and emerging service needs. The WMO offers a strong foundation of science, data and
global standards which can inform and influence the development of these services and offer
assurance to end-users regarding their quality. The private sector depends on the essential
scientific and observational underpinning provided by the public sector and can be powerful
advocates for sustained government investment in core public infrastructure and capability.
Recognizing the key importance of data availability for all sectors of the GWE, a commonly
developed and agreed framework to promote fair and equitable exchange of data and products
will be essential for a successful cooperation on all matters concerning the GWE and will
contribute to the full realization of its potential. Such a framework would be equally applicable
to both private and public sector. It will be particularly important for life-saving missions,
like disaster risk reduction, and for improving the access to critical information in the least
developed countries, to establish sustainable and affordable conditions for access to data from
the private sector.
4.4 Towards a new set of principles for public-private engagement
In moving forward, public-private engagement activities should be guided and informed by

the following set of principles, which are derived from the UN Global Compact9 as well as from
guidance given by the Executive Council (Decision 73 (EC-68) refers).
A. Advancing the over-arching goals articulated in the WMO Convention, namely:

(a) Protection of life and property;
(b) Safeguarding the environment;
(c) Contributing to sustainable development;
(d) Promoting long-term observation, collection and sharing of meteorological, hydrological
and climatological data, including related environmental data;
(e) Promotion of endogenous capacity-building;
(f) Meeting international commitments;
(g) Contributing to international cooperation.
B. Shared value: Engagement between the public, private and academia sectors should
create shared value and seek “win-win” situations whereby both public entities and businesses
can recognize the opportunities for innovation and growth, based on science, in meeting
society’s needs. Creating shared value can be done by leveraging private-sector expertise
and supporting technology transfer, by promoting free and unrestricted data sharing based on
national circumstances with intellectual property rights duly respected, and by accelerating
uptake of research and technological developments into operations and stimulating the
generation of new services, translation and dissemination of valuable knowledge, and by
investing in local research and developing human capacity through training, thereby supporting
the sustainability of the global weather enterprise.
C. Sustainability: Public, private and academic sectors should seek opportunities for
engagement where they can provide leadership on matters critical to sustainability of the
weather enterprise and where joint action is needed to gain efficiencies and better serve
society. The three sectors should seek to identify opportunities to assume complementary
roles, minimizing overlap or competition where this would lead to inefficiencies or be
detrimental to the sustainability of the weather enterprise.
9
https://www.unglobalcompact.org/about.
D. Advancing together: The rapid development of science and technology carries the risk
of widening the gap between the developed and developing countries; the availability of global
service providers might lead to marginalization of national agencies if not up to required service
quality requirements. At the same time, there is also an opportunity for developing countries to
leapfrog ahead with the smart adoption of innovative solutions in implementing those activities
WMO defines as the key role of NMHSs, i.e., providing the core observing infrastructure and
authoritative voice in public safety related services that must be recognized and maintained.
At the same time, a new approach to a better engagement with private and academic sectors
as well as to investment policies, both national and through development financing, should be
promoted to support and enhance the provision of high quality products and services to users
in all countries based on need. This will include efforts to help bridge existing gaps and develop
capacity of developing countries, LDCs and SIDS, through public-private-academia-donors
partnerships for sustainable development projects. A key principle to be maintained is that all
countries, no matter what their state of development, should have the possibility and be helped
to advance.
E. Level playing field: Both public and private sectors have much to offer to advance
collective objectives in support of the public goods and specific stakeholder needs. As such,
public and private sector communities should both have the opportunity to propose cooperative
arrangements or other forms of engagement which will facilitate working together, when
appropriate. Weather, climate and hydrological services offered by both public and private
sectors should be provided with an assured level of quality. WMO and Member governmental
agencies can engage with the private sector for the purposes of development and provision
of products and services that explicitly support and accelerate achievement of the goals of
WMO and those of Member governments. However, to the extent reasonable, engagement
should not provide exclusivity or imply endorsement or preference of a particular private-
sector entity or its products or services. Moreover, over the past decade, the private sector has
invested in various aspects of the weather enterprise, including in observational networks and
dissemination mechanisms. This creates a unique opportunity for two-way collaboration and
sharing, including of data and expertise, to facilitate the attainment of common objectives and
extract maximum benefit from the value chain for all involved. In the interest of a commonly
supported level playing field, exclusivity of data ownership existing on both the public and
private side of activities of data gathering and dissemination should be avoided.
With due regard to national legislation, members should ensure that access to commercial
data with use restrictions is treated equally between private arms of NMHSs and private sector
companies. All enterprise stakeholders, including NMHSs, should comply with relevant national
legislation and policy with respect to both data provision and the avoidance of anti-competitive
behaviour. Where an NMHS operates both public and private arms, these should be treated
as distinct entities when engaging in activities including: the exchange of data and products
(including computer model output); and the provision of services (including consultancy
services). Furthermore, where an NMHS with a private arm receives or generates data or
products that it does not completely distribute on a full and unrestricted basis under resolutions
25, 40 or 60 to commercial users, the commercial activities of the NMHS should receive
equivalent treatment as commercial users.
F. Integrity: WMO and the public agencies established by its Members should seek to
engage in mutually beneficial relationships and partnerships with academia and the private
sector so as to benefit society. The integrity of the WMO and the agencies established by its
Members, as well as their credibility, independence and impartiality should be maintained in the
engagement.
G. Sovereignty: The prerogative of WMO Members in how weather, climate and hydrological
services are to be arranged and provided within their sovereign nations should be respected.
This includes national or regional policies for making public data and products available on an
open and free principle.
H. Transparency: Engagement with the private sector should be transparent. Information on

the nature and scope of major arrangements should be available to the concerned entities and
to the public at large.
5. GLOBAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL ROLES
Promoting better public-private engagement would require ongoing consultation and action
at global, regional and national levels. This will include defining respective roles of WMO
constituencies in their interaction with other stakeholders of the weather enterprise.
5.1 Global level – The World Meteorological Organization
The World Meteorological Organization facilitates worldwide activity and cooperation around
weather, climate and water for the benefit of all nations and humankind overall. The WMO role
supporting effective public-private engagement includes:
A. Modernized and clearly articulated standards and recommended practices. WMO

is a recognized standard-setting organization and its standards and recommended practices
are developed to enable a unified global data exchange in the weather, climate, water and
environment areas; a highly harmonized data processing and forecasting; as well as, provision
of services with an acceptable level of quality and standard to specific economic sectors and
the public. Standards are constantly developing based on both evolving requirements and
evolving technology. WMO, throughout its existence (and before that time, the International
Meteorological Organization (IMO)) managed to mobilize a global community of expertise
to support the development, validation and promulgation of standard and recommended
practices, which, once approved by the Congress, provided the needed level of standardization,
interoperability and investment-sharing that led to the today’s highly successful Global Weather
Enterprise. With the understanding that these regulations shall be respected by all providers
in all Member countries, WMO should in the future engage more experts from the private
sector and academia, including through sector’s professional associations like the HMEI and
other relevant international bodies, in the standard-setting process for a shared ownership of
these standards. As WMO work in standards and practices setting expands to consider PPE,
care should be taken in not prescribing specific solutions but rather should focus on desired
outcomes and performance. WMO should also enhance its role to help ensure quality in data
and services. In particular, compliance with standards should be promoted in all enterprise
sectors and supported by agreed verification and validation measures.
B. Encouraging free and unrestricted exchange of data. Governments who signed the
WMO Convention have committed to following its regulations, including standards and practices
related to the collection and sharing of data and products between stakeholders to support
the global infrastructure as outlined in Resolutions 25 (Cg-XIII), 40 (Cg-XII) and 60 (Cg-17)
and relevant technical regulations. WMO will develop and adapt guidance for NMHSs and other
stakeholders as needed on free and unrestricted exchange of data as it applies to the current
environment, in which private-sector entities may assume larger roles in data provision.
C. Facilitating dialogue between all stakeholders. WMO should, together with its
Members, formulate strategies to better communicate the value of public meteorological
and hydrological services. Furthermore, WMO has proactively set up and participated in the
ongoing global dialogue between public, private and academia stakeholders, engaging players
and tracking developments and trends. Over time, and giving due consideration to existing
forums, it should lead development of formal mechanisms to support regular, ongoing dialogue
with private and academic sectors along all parts of the value chain. Such mechanisms
should provide a platform for exploration and resolution of issues and should seek to offer
the members of the enterprise more parity in order to foster a spirit of cooperation and
partnership. The governance structures and experience of other international organizations
may provide useful models. WMO technical commissions should actively seek to better engage
available expertise not only from the public sector, but also from academia and private sector.
Such an all-inclusive approach will require innovation in the way the technical bodies conduct
their business engaging efficient use of modern communication and collaboration technology.
D. Investigate emerging issues as well as new roles, and implementing such roles
as appropriate. As the weather enterprise evolves, WMO should monitor issues emerging
around public- private engagement that could significantly affect either its Members or the
sustainability of the global weather enterprise. Among those issues, it should investigate
the feasibility and desirability of taking on new roles to help ensure quality in data and
services. For example, in an increasingly crowded marketplace, there is a pressing need for
an international authority to objectively validate the quality of the provided information and
services, thus helping users in their selection of providers based on quality assurance. WMO
programmes and expert bodies have been engaged in the development and implementation
of verification methodologies, inter-comparison campaigns and quality management guidance.
Verification of forecasts of different providers from both private and public sectors has also
been done by independent third parties. In the future, such quality assurance activities should
be better coordinated and criteria should be developed with the participation of the three
enterprise sectors in order to distinguish between a “good service” and a “bad service”. The
WMO Secretariat also needs to continue to expand dedicated expertise in “meteorology as a
business”.
5.2 Regional level – regional associations
WMO regional associations interface with their Members, liaise with other stakeholders,
designate and support regional centres for delivery of regional services to Members. To support
engagement with private sector and other stakeholders, regional associations are urged to take
on roles including:
A. Gathering and disseminating information and guidance. Regional associations are

urged to facilitate change management and advocate for inclusive consultations, including
knowledge and experience sharing, in order to enable Members to learn from each other and
provide support as needed for effective public-private engagement. Knowledge can be shared
globally through the WMO Secretariat to regional and national levels, as well as directly by
regional associations with Members and other stakeholders.
B. Raising awareness and capacity-building to Members. Regional associations are

urged to provide capacity-building training to agency staff and leadership in practices needed
for effective promotion of the value of weather services as well as public-private engagement.
Such a capacity-building should highlight the need for public-private-academia partnerships in
the light of the UN SDGs and should come with practical examples of good national practices.
C. Exploring further cooperation in service provision at regional and subregional

level. The regional associations should take a lead in informing their Members of the ongoing
development of the Global Weather Enterprise and its expected growth. A key element to be
well understood and exploited is the increasing internationalization of the service delivery.
Modern technology allows for a global and regional provision of data and information services
which in the past were provided exclusively by national entities. Such a trend poses both
opportunities and risks, which regional associations should address to help their members
adapt to this new environment. In particular, regional associations should study and promote
examples of regionalization of certain services through bilateral or multilateral cooperation
between Members which improve competitiveness of services and reduce their costs. Such
subregional and regional approach should again not be limited to the public sector, but to
explore achieving more efficiency through public-private cross-border engagement without
compromising national mandates or quality requirements.
5.3 National level – Members and NMHSs
Given the increasing participation of the private sector, Members and their designated agencies
such as NMHSs are urged to take action to maintain and improve agency engagement with
the private sector to strengthen the weather enterprise with the aim of maximizing benefits
to the Members in the short- and long-term. Effective engagement also offers opportunities to
strengthen NMHSs and all entities involved in the weather enterprise. Roles include:
A. Fostering structured dialogue with the private sector. Members and their designated
agencies such as NMHSs are urged to reach out proactively to set up structured dialogue
between public, private and academic sector stakeholders on issues of common interest.
Regular dialogue would be more effective to improve mutual understanding and foster
relationships. In this, Members and NMHSs may benefit from recognizing the opportunities
where national objectives converge with those of the private sector.
B. Encouraging appropriate legislation, business models, performing change

management and building on core strengths. In an environment where private sector
engagement in meteorological and hydrological services is likely to continue in the decades
ahead, NMHSs should strongly consider building expertise, to develop their research and
development capability, and to continuously enhance the quality and dissemination of their
products and services to allow them to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment. They
may also wish to undertake initiatives in order to understand and adapt to ongoing changes
in their business models, including potential initiatives involving national legislation to enable
effective public-private engagement to leverage resources and build upon the strengths of
the sectors. Recognizing the increasing stress on the public budget in many States, which in
turn puts a lot of stress on the NMHSs ability to maintain and develop their infrastructure and
service capacity, national legislation enabling effective and equitable public-private engagement,
creating ‘win-win’ solutions to serve better the society and strengthening the authoritative role
of NMHSs, may be appropriate.
C. Promoting uptake of WMO standards and guidance. On an ongoing basis, Members’

governments are urged to ensure that all national players providing meteorological or
hydrological functions comply with WMO technical regulations (standards and recommended
practices, procedures and specifications) that are designed to ensure global standardization and
quality of data and products. WMO will also issue guidance for effective engagement between
public and private actors in the weather enterprise and to provide some ‘rules of engagement’
for Members and other stakeholders. Members also are urged to promote awareness of and
compliance with these standards and guidance among other stakeholders.
D. Fostering partnerships between public and civil society entities. In an evolving

world, with societal vulnerabilities to weather and climate risks growing, designated Member
agencies such as NMHSs are strongly encouraged to consider the needs and resources of
public sector and civil society weather, climate, hydrological, marine and other related service
consumers, and where opportunities exist to improve services for vulnerable end users, to seek
to provide data and other information at cost-recovery rates or less.
E. Exploring new partnerships at national and cross-border nature. In anticipation of

a growing diversity in a multi-stakeholder weather, climate and hydrological service provision
landscape, partnerships between national agencies or multi-national service delivery models
through bi-lateral or multilateral agreements for certain services, should be encouraged.
Such models would leverage resources, improve efficiency and allow consistent and seamless
services across national borders.
6. PUBLIC-PRIVATE ENGAGEMENT FOR CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT
The UN sustainable development agenda 2030 makes a call to join-up efforts to better serve
countries, and it creates a sense of urgency for country level action. Most of the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) are linked to weather-, climate- and water-sensitive areas. Achieving
them requires the multi-stakeholder public-private-academic Global Weather Enterprise (GWE)
to develop and expand its capability to help reduce the vulnerability of societies to weather
and climate extremes. The goals set by the 2030 Agenda, the Sendai Framework and the
Paris Agreement is mobilizing an increasing amount of investments, which effectiveness will
highly depend on the quality of weather, climate and hydrological information supporting those
investments.
While demands for information and service provision are increasing exponentially, many
national meteorological and hydrometeorological services (NMHSs) in developing countries are
confronted with major performance challenges. Closing this capacity gap requires scaling up
collaboration and leveraging of WMO expertise and knowledge through strategic partnerships
for increased impact.
Capacity development actions to ensure production of and access to high-quality weather,

hydrological and climate information needed for sustainable development, will require a
concerted effort of all GWE stakeholders, but also a mobilization of significant financial
resources. This challenging task brings the development finance institutions (DVI) as another
important partner in the GWE. The growing flow of resources for building the capacity of
hydrometeorological services including from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), Multilateral
Development Banks, and bilateral partners require a more systematic and complementary
approach for sustainable investments. Efforts need to focus not only on “more” but also
“better” investments to increase capacity and relevance of NMHSs as key players for a country’s
sustainable development
The GWE has a major role in developing business models to ensure the best use of the
significant donor funds for raising the capacity of the developing countries in a sustainable
manner. The interlinkages and interdependencies between the developing and developed world
substantiate two main business cases for the enterprise: the business case of a sustainable
global infrastructure to run global services, and the business case of enabling developing
countries to develop local capacity and benefit from the global services available. A component
of the capacity supporting local capabilities throughout the WMO community is currently and
will continue to be, tied to the ability of the growing private sector to create jobs, especially as
the government sector shrinks in the face of contracting budgets. In this regard, a focus on the
growth of the local workforce with expertise in the IT and science-to-service advancements will
go hand-in-hand in the development and growth of local capabilities within the private sector
that will be required to sustain the capacity development envisioned for all Members.
Development projects with public-private engagement have a potential to provide sustainable

solutions for modernizing national infrastructure and enhancing the access to and the quality
of the requisite services needed by the national economy and citizens. To enable such
partnerships, it is necessary for both public and private sector stakeholders to build mutual
trust, respect a code of ethics and strive to establish long-lasting engagement. Business models
based on leveraging of the resources, cost- and revenue-sharing, should be further developed
and promoted. The academic sector has also its important role in such partnerships by bringing
innovation and training and education opportunities.
At international level, WMO should work closely with the development financing institutions
in designing projects that are based on prioritized national needs following the ‘people first’
principle, financially viable to ensure sustainability, and reinforcing the capability of the
developing countries to be part of the international exchange of data and products through the
WMO global systems.
APPENDIX
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Note: The definition of terms related to public-private engagement is a work in progress. Thus,
the definitions of terms below should be seen as related to the context of this Policy Framework
and not as universally applicable.
Academic Sector means public or private higher education establishments awarding academic
degrees, public or private non-profit research institutes whose primary mission is to pursue
research. (definition used by the European Commission)
Private sector (business sector): Either for-profit, and commercial enterprises or

businesses; or business associations and coalitions (cross-industry, multi-issue groups; cross
industry, issue-specific initiatives; industry-focused initiative); including but not limited to
corporate philanthropic foundations”.
Public-private engagement: Engagement by NMHSs (and/or other public agents) with the
private sector in various modes in the production and delivery of weather, climate, hydrological,
marine and related environmental information and services while respecting the public interest
and the mandates of NMHSs and keeping in mind budgetary constraints.
Public–private partnerships are voluntary and collaborative relationships among various

actors in both public (State) and private (non-State) sectors, in which all participants agree
to work together to achieve a common goal or undertake specific tasks. Partnerships may
serve various purposes, including advancing a cause, to implement normative standards or
codes of conduct, or to share and coordinate resources and expertise. They may consist of a
specific single activity, or may evolve into a set of actions or even an enduring alliance, building
consensus and ownership with each collaborating organization and its stakeholders. While they
vary considerably, such partnerships are typically established as structured cooperative efforts
with a sharing of responsibilities as well as expertise, resources and other benefits.
Weather Enterprise: A name used to describe the multitude of systems and entities
participating in the production and provision of meteorological, climatological, hydrological,
marine and related environmental information and services. For brevity, the name only refers
to “weather”; however, the enterprise encompasses all business areas of WMO, including
weather, climate and water; and all core activities – observations, modelling, data-processing
and forecasting, and other services and related research. The weather enterprise includes
public-sector entities (NMHSs and other governmental agencies), private-sector entities (such
as equipment manufacturers, service-provider companies and private media companies) and
academia, as well as civil society (community-based entities, NGOs, national meteorological
societies, scientific associations, etc.). The weather enterprise has global, regional, national and
local dimensions.
Global Weather Enterprise is the global dimension of the multi-national multi-stakeholder

weather enterprise encompassing all contributors to the Earth system monitoring, prediction
and service provision from public, private and academic sectors, as well as learned or civil
society entities.
Data and services: The terms data and services are understood as complementary and often
overlapping. Their use and definition is expected to develop over time.
WMO Code of Conduct for officers of the Organization and members of the Executive
Council including its committees and for delegates at constituent body meetings
Noting the exchange of correspondence between the external auditor and the President of
WMO in 2017 and 2018 related to the reputation of WMO,
Noting also that the President requested the Secretary-General to prepare a draft code of
conduct for officers of the Organization and members of the Executive Council, including its
committees and for delegates at constituent body meetings,
Endorses the Code of Conduct for officers of the Organization and members of the Executive
Council including its committees and for delegates at constituent body meetings, as provided in
the annex to the present resolution;
Decides to consider amendments to the Code of Conduct, with special emphasis on paragraphs
2.3, 2.4 and 2.5, at the seventy-first session of the Executive Council;
Requests the Executive Council Working Group on Strategic and Operational Planning to review
and propose amendments to the Code of Conduct as may be required to the Executive Council
at its seventy-first session.
WMO Code of Conduct for officers of the Organization and members of the Executive
Council including its committees and for delegates at constituent body meetings
1. Purpose and Scope
1.1 The purpose of this Code of Conduct (the “Code”) is to reflect the utmost commitment
of the World Meteorological Organization (the “Organization”) to the highest standards of ethical
behaviour.
1.2 The Organization recognizes that the legitimacy and credibility of its work depends on
public trust and confidence in the institution. This may be negatively impacted by the individual
behaviour of those serving the Organization and supporting its work.
1.3 The Officers of the Organization (the “Officers”) and the Executive Council (“EC”) and
delegates at constituent body meetings play a critical role in safeguarding and maintaining the
image and reputation of the Organization. Accordingly, Officers, members of EC,1 as well as
members and alternate members of the EC Committees established by EC (collectively, “EC and
Committee members”) and delegates at constituent body meetings are expected to reflect the
highest the standards of conduct. This includes observing the present Code.2
1.4 Breaches of this Code shall be brought to the attention of the President, who will
decide how to proceed in the best interests of the Organization. Actions in this regard may
include but are not limited to bringing the matter to the attention of the relevant Member State.
2. Safeguarding the Image and Reputation of the Organization
2.1 Bearing in mind the potential impact of their individual behaviour on the work of
the Organization, Officers, EC and Committee members and delegates at constituent body
meetings should refrain from engaging in any activity that may negatively affect the image and
reputation of the Organization.
2.2 Due regard for the potential impact on the image and reputation of the Organization
means also taking into consideration public perceptions. Questions raised in a public forum
regarding ethical behaviour of EC and Committee members and delegates at constituent body
meetings may have an immediate effect of jeopardizing the Organization interest(s). These
situations – which may, for example, arise in the context of alleged criminal behaviour, or in
disputes or complaints of a public nature – must be handled with care, respecting individual
rights while also recognizing the need to prioritize the interests of the Organization.
2.3 Where individual circumstances arise with a reasonable likelihood of negatively

affecting the image and reputation of the Organization, the relevant Officer, EC or Committee
member or delegate shall immediately inform the President in writing. Officers, EC and
Committee members or delegates should bring such matters to the attention of the President
as soon as possible, preferably well before the matter becomes a question of public discussion.
2.4 After consulting with the President, EC and/or the respective Committee, as relevant,
delegates, Officers, EC members or Committee members shall either: (a) voluntarily step down
from the Office of President or Vice-Presidents of the Organization, EC or the Committee;
or (b) shall refrain from any participation in constituent body sessions, EC or the relevant
Committee until the circumstances are resolved. The WMO President shall decide whether he/
she considers the circumstances resolved to his/her satisfaction. If the matter relates to an
Officer or an EC/Committee member and is not deemed resolved by the next EC meeting, or
within 1 (one) year from the date that it was reported to the President (whichever is later), the
Officer, EC or the Committee member shall definitively step down and the usual procedure for
election/designation of a new Officer, EC and Committee member shall be launched.
2.5 Where actual circumstances have not yet arisen but it is reasonably foreseeable that
they will, the delegate, Officer, EC or Committee member shall inform the President, who will
decide how to proceed.
3. Conflicts of interest of Officers, EC/Committee members
3.1 In carrying out their WMO duties, Officers, EC members or Committee members shall
avoid any situation that poses an actual, or the potential for, or the appearance of a conflict
between their personal interests and the performance of their official duties.
3.2 An actual, potential or apparent conflict of interest arises when personal interests of
an Officer, an EC member or a Committee member interfere or may be perceived as interfering
in any way with the performance of his/her official duties.
3.3 An actual conflict of interest involves a conflict between official duties of an Officer,
EC member or Committee member as part of the EC or a Committee and his/her individual
interests that could improperly influence the performance of those official duties. Such a conflict
of interest may arise when an Officer, an EC member or a Committee member takes actions or
has interests that make it difficult to perform his/her work objectively and effectively, or when
an Officer, an EC member or a Committee member takes actions that intentionally result in
improper benefits for that an EC member or a Committee member, his/her immediate family
members or other persons or entities.
3.4 A potential or apparent conflict of interest arises when it could reasonably be

perceived that an Officer, an EC member or a Committee member personal interests could
improperly influence the performance of his/her official duties, even if this is not, in fact, the
case.
3.5 In order to avoid such circumstances, Officers, EC members or Committee members

shall not take any action that might result in, or create the potential for, or the appearance of:
(a) Giving unwarranted preferential or prejudicial treatment to any organization or person; or
(b) Impeding the efficiency of the decision-making processes in EC or the relevant Committee;
or
(c) Losing independence or impartiality of action; or
(d) Affecting adversely the confidence of Member States or the public in the integrity of WMO.
3.6 An Officer, an EC member or a Committee member having an actual, potential or

apparent conflict of interest concerning a deliberation or a decision to be taken by EC shall
declare it to the President prior to the relevant session. For Officers and EC members, as a
matter of good practice, the Officer and EC or Committee member should report the matter
to the government of the Member State of which he/she is a national. In addition, he/she shall
not communicate with other EC or Committee members regarding the decision or deliberation,
shall not participate in the discussion of such item in EC or in the relevant Committee, and
shall abstain from voting on such decision. Any such declaration concerning a recusal shall
be recorded in the minutes of the session as follows: “[NAME] recused himself/herself from
consideration of this item.”
3.7 An Officer, an EC member or a Committee member having a conflict of interest

concerning a decision of EC or the relevant Committee to be adopted by written or tacit
procedure shall abstain from communicating with other EC or Committee members about
the decision and shall abstain from voting on such decision. He/she may ask, in writing, the
President that his/her abstention on grounds of conflict of interest be recorded.
4. Independence of Officers, EC/Committee members
As provided under Article 6 of the WMO Convention, in the performance of their duties, Officers
and EC members act as representatives of the Organization, not as representatives of particular
Member States. EC members, as well as members of the EC Committees are expected to
respect the principle of independence while carrying out their duties.
5. Acceptance of gifts
Delegates, Officers, EC members or Committee members shall exercise tact and judgement in
relation to the acceptance of gifts,3 favours or entertainment from persons having dealings with
WMO in order to protect WMO from any appearance of impropriety or of improper influence on
the performance of their official duties.
____________________
1
Including the President, the three Vice-Presidents, the ex officio members, and the elected/acting members.
2
Staff members serving in the Secretariat have pledged their commitment to ethical behaviour through the WMO
Code of Ethics.
3
Gifts include any tangible goods or services, honour, decoration, remuneration, favours or economic benefits.
WMO Executive Council structures
Recalling:
(1) Decision 84 (EC-68) – Governance review,
(2) Decision 68 (EC-69) – WMO constituent body reform,
Having considered the recommendations of the Executive Council Working Group on Strategic
and Operational Planning concerning the WMO constituent body reform,
Emphasizing the essential role of the Executive Council as the executive body of the
Organization, responsible for the coordination of programmes of the Organization and for
the utilization of its budgetary resources in accordance with the decisions of the World
Recalling the primary functions of the Executive Council set out in Article 14 of the Convention
of the World Meteorological Organization,
Considering that the discharge of such primary functions requires the Executive Council,
inter alia:
(1) To lead the development of the WMO Strategic Plan and provide recommendations to
Congress on overall policy aspects, including the establishment of partnerships,
(2) To support and supervise regional associations and technical commissions in the
implementation of their decisions and resolutions and in the preparation of their operating
plans,
(3) To provide advice to Congress on scientific and technical matters and emerging issues,
including those that entail the engagement of expert communities beyond the WMO
mandate,
(4) To provide recommendations to Congress concerning programme and budget estimates,

financial matters and compliance with the legal framework of the Organization,
Decides:
(1) To establish the following standing bodies reporting to the Executive Council, with the
terms of reference as given in the annex to the present resolution:
(a) Policy Advisory Committee (PAC);
(b) Technical Coordination Committee (TCC);
(2) To confirm the following bodies reporting to the Executive Council:
(a) WMO Staff Pension Committee, established by Resolution 30 (EC-XXI), as amended by

Resolution 21 (EC-XXXV);
(b) WMO Audit Committee, with the terms of reference provided by Resolution 8
(EC-LXIII);
(c) Financial Advisory Committee, with the terms of reference provided by Resolution 39
(Cg-XV), reporting to Congress and the Executive Council;
(3) To recommend to Congress the establishment of the Science Advisory Panel, reporting
to Congress and the Executive Council, with the terms of reference as formulated in
Recommendation 25 (EC-70) Annex 4;
(4) That the need for, and the functions of, other bodies reporting to the Executive Council
shall be reconsidered in light of the establishment of PAC and TCC;
(5) To continue consideration of the matter of the number and distribution of seats of the
Executive Council, referred to the Council by Congress, in the next financial period
2020–2023;
(6) To defer the implementation of point (1) in this decision regarding the PAC and the TCC to
the Executive Council at its seventy-first session.
Policy, scientific and technical advisory bodies reporting to the Executive Council
A. Policy Advisory Committee
Mandate
The Policy Advisory Committee (PAC) shall advise the Executive Council on any matters
concerning the strategy and policy of the Organization submitted to it by the Executive Council,
with a particular focus on:
(1) Maintaining awareness of global trends and external drivers that affect Members and the
long-term vision-setting of the Organization,
(2) Improving and aligning the Organization-wide strategic, operational and budget planning
process, including monitoring of implementation of the Strategic Plan,
(3) Keeping under review WMO policies and practices for the exchange of meteorological,
hydrological and climatological and related data and products,
(4) Optimizing WMO governance and programme structures, processes and practices to ensure
the effective and efficient use of resources through a more strategic focus and within a
quality management framework,
(5) Addressing and keeping under review the evolution of the role and operation of National
Meteorological and Hydrological Services,
(6) Streamlining WMO scientific and technical programmes to ensure their relevance to the
Strategic and Operating Plans and effectiveness,
(7) Guiding the engagement of the Organization in partnerships with other UN and
international organizations, the academia and the private sector,
(8) Mainstreaming and advancing gender equality across the Organization, especially in
governance and decision-making.
Membership
The Committee shall be composed of:
(a) The presidents of the regional associations,
(b) Eight Members of the Executive Council appointed by the Council upon proposal by the
President noting the need for the expertise in the focus areas of the mandate of the
Committee and taking into consideration regional representation and gender equality
factors,
(c) The chairs of the Scientific Advisory Panel and the Technical Coordination Committee as ex
officio members.
Working procedures
The Committee shall be chaired by the WMO President or one of the Vice-Presidents.
The Committee shall normally meet once per year prior to a session of Executive Council.
The chair of the Committee may invite experts and/or representatives from partner
organizations to attend meetings of the Committee as observers.
At meetings of the Committee, the members may be assisted by advisors.
The Committee may establish time-bound substructures as needed for the discharge of specific
tasks during an intersessional period.
B. Technical Coordination Committee
Mandate
The Technical Coordination Committee (TCC) shall act as a two-way interface between the
Executive Council and the technical bodies of the Organizations: technical commissions, the
Research Board, and other relevant bodies. It shall ensure the coordination between these
bodies and shall provide the necessary analytical information to inform EC decisions on
technical matters. The TCC shall oversee the level of coordination between the technical bodies
and the regional associations to ensure that the technical work of the Organization is properly
guided by the needs and priorities identified by Members.
The committee shall report to the Executive Council on the following issues:
(1) Progress in developing further the WMO technical regulatory framework in a consistent
manner by all technical bodies involved;
(2) Status of compliance with technical regulations of the WMO Members, including advice on
identified barriers to compliance and ways to address them to resolve deficiencies;
(3) Impact and risk assessment of new standards and technology on the systems operated by
Members, including financial and human resources impact;
(4) Evolving user needs for information and services and alignment of the plans of the WMO
technical bodies to meet those needs;
(5) Collaboration and coordination between the technical bodies and regional associations to
ensure that regional priorities and requirements are considered into the technical bodies’
planning;
(6) Collaboration among the technical commissions, the Research Board and any other
bodies established by Congress or Executive Council required to facilitate the transition
of research to operations through co-design, operational testing and feed-back from
operational community;
(7) Issues of common concerns of regional associations, technical commissions, the Research
Board and any other bodies established by Congress or Executive Council affecting the
progress of implementation of the Strategic and Operating Plans;
(8) Coordination with other bodies, such as SAP and PAC and any other issues that might be
referred to by the Executive Council.
Membership
The Committee shall be composed of:
(a) The presidents and vice-presidents of the technical commissions,
(b) The presidents of regional associations,
(c) The chair and vice-chair of the Research Board,
(d) The chairs of any other bodies established by Congress or Executive Council,
(e) The chairs of other WMO sponsored and co-sponsored technical bodies identified by the
President.
Working procedures
The Committee shall be chaired by a WMO Vice-President.
The Committee shall meet in principle once per year prior to a session of Executive Council.
The chair of the Committee may invite experts and/or representatives from other partner
organizations to attend meetings of the Committee as observers.
At meetings of the Committee, the members may be assisted by advisors.

The Committee may establish time-bound substructures for the discharge of specific tasks
during an intersessional period. Such temporary substructures shall be discontinued at the end
of every intersessional period.
WMO Constituent Bodies Reform Transition Plan and Communication Strategy
Recalling Decision 68 (EC-69) – WMO constituent body reform, which:
(1) Agreed that “the change should be implemented through a phased approach ensuring
smooth and effective transformation of different kinds of WMO constituent bodies”,
(2) Requested the Working Group on Strategic and Operating Planning to:
…
(4) Prepare a communication strategy, including consultations with Members
and relevant external constituencies, such as IOC/UNESCO, FAO, ICAO;
…
(6) Elaborate the transition and change management processes,
Recognizing the key importance of having a transition plan that establishes the goals,
priorities and strategies to be in place for a successful transition, together with a clear schedule
for the different phases of the transition process and related change and risk management,
Having considered the recommendations of the Working Group on Strategic and Operating
Planning concerning the transition process and communication strategy,
Adopts the proposed WMO Constituent Bodies Reform Transition Plan (hereafter referred
as the Transition Plan) presented in Annex 1 to the present resolution, and the related
Communication Strategy presented in Annex 2 to the present resolution, with the
understanding that they will be living documents that will be kept under continuous review and
updated as necessary to meet the established targets and milestones;
Establishes an Executive Council WMO Constituent Bodies Reform Task Force (CBR-TF) with
composition and terms of reference as shown in Annex 3 to the present resolution, tasked to
support and guide the further development and implementation of the Transition Plan;
Requests the Chairperson of CBR-TF to initiate the work of the Task Force as soon as possible
and to establish a timeline for carrying out its tasks, aligned with the timeline of the Transition
Plan;
Requests presidents of regional associations and technical commissions to facilitate the

implementation of the Transition Plan and the Communication Strategy through coordinated
awareness-raising actions in their respective Regions and commissions, including through the
agendas of the forthcoming regional association or technical commission sessions before the
Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress;
Requests the presidents of technical commissions to coordinate closely with CBR-TF to ensure
the continuity of activities included in the work programme of the current technical commission,
as well to provide technical advice and implementation assistance to Members during the
transition period;
Requests the Secretary-General, in coordination with CBR-TF:
(1) To continue development of the Transition Plan before the Eighteenth Congress, using
recognized project management processes and tools, and ensuring an appropriate
approach to balance speed of progress against the associated risks, and ensure the early,
sustainable implementation of high priority activities;
(2) To manage the transition process, engage main stakeholders, synchronize the Transition
Plan with the conjoint change management, communication and risk mitigation processes;
(3) To work closely with the presidents of technical commissions and of regional associations,
and other groups as necessary, to ensure that transition and communication activities are
planned and conducted in a scheduled and harmonized way;
(4) To arrange relevant activities and allocate resources to support the work of CBR-TF and
ensure the implementation of the communication and outreach actions envisaged in the
Communication Strategy, including:
(a) Conduct of meetings of CBR-TF;
(b) Web space for communication and outreach dedicated to the WMO constituent bodies
reform;
(c) Preparation and publication of awareness–raising materials on the WMO constituent

bodies reform.
WMO Constituent Bodies Reform Transition Plan

(draft v02, 14 May 2018)
1. Introduction
During the last ten years a number of UN agencies have undertaken a review, realignment and
reform process. There are several major drivers for this but they all could be summarized as
alignment with 21st century realities, priorities and dynamics.
The WMO Constituent Bodies Reform (WMO CBR) has been carried out in accordance with the
directions given by Cg-17 (2015) and the following EC sessions in 2016 and 2017. The scale of
the discussed changes to the constituent bodies is unprecedented in the history of the WMO.
The EC Working Group on Strategic and Operational Planning (WG-SOP) has been given the
task to discuss, plan and design the reform elements and process, and to develop coordinated
mature proposals for the structural changes, related working mechanisms and transition
processes to be considered by the Cg-18 in June 2019.
As an interim step, Decision 68 (EC-69) tasked the WG-SOP with support from the Secretariat
to develop, for consideration by EC-70, a set of recommendations for Cg-18, which address
the key issues identified in the proposal for the WMO CBR, including the transition and change
management processes.
The reform will affect the structure of the organization, its strategy and priorities, its work
programmes realignment, its processes and finally the Secretariat. It is also a cultural change.
Thus, the success of the reform depends to a large extent on a well elaborated change
management process and scheduled transition. Communication with Members, partner
organizations and users to explain the rationale, expected improvements and benefits of the
reform and to receive feedback during the process is another key to success of the planned
restructuring and realignment.
2. Objective
The Transition Plan describes how the changes of the structure will be implemented. The
objective is to ensure a scheduled approach and to assign governing and reporting functions
along the process. It focuses on changes that are anticipated, planned ahead of time.
The Transition Plan is based on decisions/resolutions of the EC-70 (June 2018) (Resolution 36
(EC-70). A revision is envisaged based on decisions by extraordinary session of the Commission
for Hydrology (CHy-Ext.) in December 2018, and Cg‑18 (June 2019) to ensure timely and
effective follow up on the agreed actions related to the CBR. The transition plan is aligned with
the (draft) WMO Strategic Plan (to be adopted by Cg-18) with a view to synchronize the reform
process with the planned activities in all technical and capacity development areas and ensure
continuity of work needed to achieve its strategic objectives.
It is understood that the reform will be an evolving process which requires flexibility and
readjustment of the implementing actions while maintaining the main objectives, milestones
and targets. Therefore, the transition plan will be a living document continuously monitored and
reviewed with well-established feedback mechanisms and ability for corrective actions.
3. Definitions
To ensure consistent understanding of the formats and roles of the new types of subsidiary
bodies, the following working definitions10 should apply:
Advisory or Coordination Committee of Executive Council: a committee established by

the Executive Council comprising members of the Council and/or additional experts invited by
the Council, with a main task to address a specific area of work of WMO and provide advice to
EC to inform its decisions.
Standing Committee of a technical commission: a quasi-permanent expert body

established by and reporting to a technical commission with limited scope and terms of
reference defined by the parent commission; normally, established for a period of 4 years.
Standing committees are expected to deal mostly with the required normative work in
accordance with their Terms of Reference, and submit strategic recommendations and
suggestions on behalf of the committee to the respective commission.
Inter-agency (Standing) Committee: a committee established jointly by the WMO and

one or more partner organization(s) to address cross-cutting areas of interest of these
organizations. The establishment of an inter-agency committee should be through an
Agreement to be signed by the cooperating organizations establishing inter alia the scope of the
Committee, the responsibilities of the signatories, the working mechanisms and a summary of
the signatories respective reporting structures.
4. Transition process
The transition process will take into consideration the “Current Situation” (current constituent
body structure and working mechanisms) and an outline of the current realm of organizational
elements that will be impacted by the reform. This will be followed by a clear outline of the
“New Situation” (agreed new constituent body structure and working mechanisms).
10
To ensure flexibility in establishing effective sub-structures, these working definitions are not included in the WMO
General Regulations, with the understanding that Regulations 33 to 45 will be applicable to any new subsidiary
structure to the constituent bodies.
The main element of the transition process will be to form a clear vision of the “Current”-to-
“New”, i.e., how the necessary changes to any affected area are going to occur. The change
elements that will be considered in the process include:
(a) Organizational culture
(b) Organizational structure
(c) Clear roles and responsibilities
(d) Skills and knowledge
(e) Policies/Procedures
(f) Workflow and processes
The Executive Council will establish a CBR Task Force to coordinate, manage and oversee the
transition process.
Changes described here should serve to identify key issues to address in the Communication
Plan, in particular the key issues for applicable stakeholders; and the Risk Management.
5. Transition schedule
Note: This schedule outlines the transition milestones, phases and intermittent targets, and
related tasks; the target dates are to be further refined by the Constituent Bodies Reform Task
Force (CBR-TF).
5.1 A high-level schedule (major milestones only) is provided in Table 1:
5.2 Intermittent arrangements and targets
Phase 1: A to B (between WG-SOP and EC-70)
• Target A2B-1: Final draft proposals to EC-70 (EC-70 docs published);
• Target A2B-2: TORs of the CBR-TF prepared for approval by EC-70;
• Target A2B-3: Secretariat Change Management Committee (CMC) established to support

the CBR-TF work according to the reform proposal endorsed by EC-70;
• Target A2B-4: Finalize the Communication Strategy;
• Target A2B-5: Governance Reform website functional.
Phase 2: B to C (between EC-70 and Cg-18)
• Target B2C-1: Meetings of CBR-TF (to be scheduled);
• Target B2C-2: WMO Reform discussed at the RA III, V and I sessions and other regional
events;
• Target B2C-3: Draft Procedural Handbook(s);
• Target B2C-4: Prepare the General Regulations amendment proposal;
• Target B2C-5: Communication – through website and other publications (FAQs, explanatory
memoranda, videos, etc.);
Table 1. Transition schedule

Milestone A: EC WG-SOP (April 2018)
Agree in principle on proposals for restructuring (EC bodies, TCs, Research
Board, other bodies reporting to EC and Congress) and submit recommendation
for consideration by EC-70;
Agree on the need for establishment by the EC of a Constituent Bodies Reform
Task Force (CBR-TF);
Advise SG to establish change management plan of Secretariat;
Endorse a draft (outline) of the Transition Plan.
Milestone B: EC-70 (June 2018)
Endorse final draft proposal for WMO Governance Review, including the
establishment of technical commissions and Research Board for the next
financial period with respective recommendations for consideration of Cg-18;
Establish a new EC structure with main bodies: Policy Advisory Committee
(PAC), Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP)1 and Technical Coordination Committee
(TCC);
Establish the CBR-TF, decide on the CBR-TF Chair and members, and decide on
the terms of reference;
Endorse the Transition Plan and the Communication Strategy;
Decide on any other planning and implementation needs including performance
evaluation (of the reform process), etc., identified by EC.
Milestone C: Cg-18 (June 2019) and EC-71 (June 2019)
Adopt WMO Strategic Plan and the Operating Plan;
Adopt WMO Governance Review document package, including the
establishment of new technical commissions and Research Board;
Endorse new EC structure (PAC, SAP, TCC) and provide further advice;
Adopt necessary amendments to the General Regulations;
Adopt amendments to the TORs of the regional associations;
Elect presidents and vice-presidents of the new technical commissions;
Update the Transition Plan with a final timeline and targets for operationalizing
the new structure;
Establish high-level communication with international partner organizations for
planning and coordination of joint activities;
EC-71 to complete the new composition of EC (PAC, SAP, TCC fully established
with respective governance and work programmes).
Milestone D: EC-72 (June 2020)
New EC structures (PAC, SAP, TCC) to meet in spring 2020 to elaborate
decisions for the EC-72;
The new technical commissions and the Research Board report on their
major outcome of their first sessions, including fully established new working
structure, working programmes and plans with milestones;
Final Report of CBR-TF on the completion of the transition phase;
Plan performance evaluation and follow up.
1
All provisions related to SAP will be adjusted following the decision on the way SAP will be established
– by EC or by Congress.
• Target B2C-6: Final draft proposals to Cg-18 including proposals for the presidents and vice
presidents of new technical commissions and the Research Board, preliminary mapping of
the tasks of the current commissions to the new structure, etc. (Cg-18 docs published);
• Target B2C-7: Extraordinary session of CHy (Dec 2018) – proposal for hydrological bodies.
Phase 3: C to D (between Cg-18 and EC-72)
• Target C2D-1: Extended meeting of CBR-TF with the current PTCs and PRAs, PTCs and vice
presidents elect – to make proposals for the establishment of the sub-structure of the new
commissions and Research Board – standing committees; map the tasks of the current
commissions to the new structure and create transition schedules; and communicate with
Members for nominations (standing committee chairs, experts, etc.).;
• Target C2D-2: Alignment of the new technical commissions and the Research Board
structure with the subsidiary bodies of the regional associations and create transition plan;
• Target C2D-3: Finalize and publish Procedural Handbooks;
• Target C2D-4: Communication – provide updates on the reform phases through

website and other publications (FAQs, explanatory memoranda, etc.); ensure two-way
communication to receive feed-back from Members and others concerned;
• Target C2D-5: Conduct the first sessions of the new technical commissions and the
Research Board (possibly – conjointly) to formally establish the new working structure,
working plans of the commission, with expected deliverables and milestones; EC-71 (after
Congress) to decide on the schedule for these sessions, e.g., before EC-72;
• Target C2D-6: Final report of CBR-TF for consideration by EC-72.
6. Change management
An effective transition requires effective organization-wide change management. Acknowledging

the scope and magnitude of the proposed changes in the WMO structure and processes, which
are unprecedented in the history of the Organization, the change management plan is a key
element for the success of the reform.
Generally, the change management plan (CMP) should cover three phases:
• Phase 1: Prepare for change
• Phase 2: Manage the change
• Phase 3: Reinforce the change
To ensure a synergetic approach, the CBR-TF defined above should also serve as the main
change management body throughout the three phases. In addition, change management
entity should be created in the Secretariat to ensure an all-inclusive process.
The following are the generic elements of a CMP, to be considered for a list of planned actions:
A. Demonstrate reasons for the change.
B. Define the type and scope of change.
C. Describe stakeholder support.
D. Create a change management team.
E. Develop an approach with organization management.
F. Draw up a plan for each stakeholder.
G. Create a communication plan.
H. Track resistance.
I. Address roadblocks.
The Secretariat Change Management Committee will be chaired by the Secretary-General. A

schedule of change management meetings/events covering the above elements A to I should be
established in due course. Change management champions from all departments should also be
appointed and engaged in the process.
More details about the change management plan elements are provided in Appendix 1.
7. Risk Management
Identification and mitigation of risks should be incorporated in the transition and change
management processes. The implementation of the reform as a vehicle to a new level of
organizational culture and relevance to society may impose risks to meeting the needs and
expectations of the Members during and after the transition phase. Continuity of performance
and quality should be ensured along with a scheduled approach in introducing the changes.
A mechanism for continuous feedback from stakeholders, in particular Members States, on the
success of the reform elements and potential performance impacts should be put in place.
In the risk assessment of the reform elements the following factors should be considered (as
advised by the WG-SOP deliberations):
(a) Doing no harm – WMO core business is, at a minimum, maintained during and after
transition to the new structure;
(b) Building all WMO Members' resilience to the consequences of weather, hydrological and
climate hazards;
(c) Yielding improved relevance, effectiveness and efficiency through a flexible structure,
improving WMO’s ability to deliver its core functions and respond to change;
(d) Evolution toward a seamless Earth system approach whilst minimizing the gap between
research and operations;
(e) Aligning structure with the value chain in provision of hydrometeorological services;
(f) Improving strategic and structural alignment of the constituent bodies, improving the inter-
relationships and adaptiveness among the TCs and other constituent bodies, specialized
regional centres and RTCs;
(g) Strengthening of user and client focus through a holistic fit and synergy with other key
international, national, and regional organizations;
(h) Optimizing WMO resources through the ability to attract and use all the best experts,
including from outside the NMHS community.
APPENDIX 1
ELEMENTS OF THE CHANGE MANAGEMENT PLAN
The following are the generic elements of a CMP, to be considered for a list of planned actions:
A. Demonstrate reasons for the change
• List factors that led to the decision to change, such as performance gaps, new technology,
or a shift in the organization's mission. One approach is to describe the current situation of
the organization, and the future situation this plan intends to create.
B. Define the type and scope of change
• Briefly describe the expected nature of the reform and related need for change
management;
• Determine whether this will affect roles, process changes, policy changes, and/or structural
organization. List departments, work groups, systems, or other components that may
undergo change.
C. Describe stakeholder support
• List all stakeholders affected by the plan, for example officers, managers, sponsors, users,
and/or employees affected by the change. Define how each stakeholder would support the
change;
• Consider a chart to communicate this clearly and succinctly. One possible template lists
Awareness, Degree of Support, and Influence for each stakeholder, rated on a scale of
High/Medium/Low;
• Conduct meetings and/or interviews to gauge support.
D. Create a change management team
• This team is responsible for communicating with all stakeholders, listening to concerns, and
ensuring that the change goes as smoothly as possible. Choose people with high credibility
in the organization, and good communication skills;
• This should include a change sponsor at the senior executive level;
• Stress that this involves active work promoting the changes, not just a sign-off on the plan.
E. Develop an approach with organization management
• Complete support from organization heavyweights is critical for the success of the change.
Allow each senior staff member to provide feedback on the change, and work with each
one to create an active role in demonstrating and championing the changes.
F. Draw up a plan for each stakeholder
• For each stakeholder, including those who support the change, assess the risks and
concerns involved. Assign the change management team the task of addressing these
concerns.
G. Create a communication plan
• Communication is the most important component of change management. Communicate

frequently with every group and person affected. Reinforce the reasons behind the change,
and the benefits it will bring;
• Stakeholders should receive personal, two-way communication. Face to face meetings are
essential;
• Communication should come from the high-level change sponsor, from the direct
supervisor of each employee, and from any additional spokespersons the stakeholder
trusts. All communication should have a consistent message.
H. Track resistance
• There is always resistance to change. This happens on the individual level, so communicate
with stakeholders personally to discover the cause. Monitor grievances so the change
management team can address them. These concerns commonly include:
(i) No motivation to change, or no sense of urgency;
(ii) No understanding of the bigger picture or why the change is necessary;
(iii) Lack of input in the process;
(iv) Uncertainty concerning job security, future role, or future job requirements and skills;
(v) Failure of management to meet expectations concerning change implementation or

communication.
I. Address roadblocks
• Many grievances should be met by an increase in communication, or a change in

communication strategy that addresses specific issues. Others require additional
approaches, which may be included in your plan or left to the change management team to
implement as necessary. Consider which of these is right for your organization:
(i) For any change in job roles or process, make employee training a top priority;
(ii) If you expect low morale or a stressful transition, alleviate this with a company event
or employee perks;
(iii) If stakeholders are not motivated to change, provide incentives;
(iv) If stakeholders feel left out of the loop, hold a meeting to gather feedback and
consider alterations to the plan.
WMO Constituent Bodies Reform Communications and Engagement Strategy overview
During the seventeenth World Meteorological Congress in June 2015, discussions arose on
whether the World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) organizational and governance
structures enabled effective and efficient decision-making and implementation of strategic
priorities of its Members. It was also recognized that rapid global change was driving a need
to undertake a governance review to ensure WMO’s ability to meet the growing needs for
integrated weather, water and climate information and services.
Consequently, Congress requested the Executive Council to provide recommendations to

the Eighteenth Congress on constituent body constructs, as appropriate, including possible
new structures for Technical Commissions (TCs), Regional Associations (RAs), Executive
Council (EC), and also to provide recommendations on rules, procedures, processes, working
mechanisms, and duties, of constituent bodies, WMO Officers (President, Vice-Presidents,
Presidents of Regional Associations (PRAs) and Presidents of Technical Commissions (PTCs))
and the relationship between them and the WMO Secretariat to enhance the efficiency and
effectiveness of the Organization and good governance.
PURPOSE OF THE COMMUNICATIONS & ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY
This document will support communications and engagement activities immediately following
the 70th Executive Council session until the 18th World Meteorological Congress in June 2019.
This Strategy is a key element of the WMO Constituent Bodies Reform Transition Plan and aim
to elaborate on the principles for success and the benefits of the proposed recommendations
for governance reform outlined in the EC-70 decisions and recommendations (to be completed).
It is acknowledged that the proposed reform will be an evolving process, and thus the
Communications Strategy, will continue to be adjusted and articulated as part of the overall
implementation plan.
In order to successfully execute governance reform, a common understanding of the rationale

for reform, and a sense of unity regarding the purpose and desired outcomes of the proposed
reform are important to set the stage for its success, both within the WMO constituency as well
as within external audiences.
The overall objectives of the Communications and Engagement Strategy within the WMO are,
therefore, to: inform and highlight the goals and benefits of the WMO constituent body reform
(CBR) in a clear and concise way to internal and external stakeholders; to build support,
demonstrate how the changes will strengthen WMO’s contributions to global priorities; and to
identify leaders as champions for communicating this reform to others.
The overall objectives of the Communications and Engagement Strategy within the stakeholder
community outside of the WMO are to inform and raise awareness of plans and strategies,
and of the intent of the WMO to adopt an integrated approach to the key areas of weather,
water and climate; highlight the benefits of reform for stakeholders; and proactively identify
opportunities for enhanced dialogue between WMO and external stakeholders to advance
dialogue and action on common objectives of importance to the global agenda.
The Communications and Engagement Strategy should also provide opportunity to Members
and stakeholders to participate in the discussion and provide feed-back during all phases of the
transition, thus enabling timely corrective actions as may become necessary.
THE CASE FOR CHANGE
WMO is committed to sustaining its leadership role and remaining fit-for purpose, becoming
more efficient and cost-effective, and ensuring its structure aligns well with the priorities of
the Organization. WMO recognizes the need to continuously adapt to rapidly changing world
forces – such as environmental degradation, resource constraints, increased competition, and
technological advances, and to maximize its impact on informing and addressing global issues
of concern such as climate change. This governance reform will provide opportunities to amplify
proactive regional engagement, and enhance integrated and horizontal dialogue that transcends
geographical boundaries.
TARGET AUDIENCES: INTERNAL STAKEHOLDERS

Name Rationale and Roles
WMO Members Ultimately WMO Member States are responsible for decisions on
Constituent Body reform, and therefore need to be informed and
engaged in the proposals as early as possible, to secure understanding
and endorsement. Successful change will be accomplished only if WMO
Members endorse and support the change platform, and are able to
actively contribute to and benefit from the change.
Permanent Representatives Designated by Member States to represent their national government,
(PRs) PRs serve as key advisors to inform and influence the position of
Member States. Early and effective engagement, and securing buy in
from a critical mass of PRs, will be important to gain traction for the
change management plan.
Name Rationale and Roles

Executive Council Members Members of the Executive Council (EC) provide direction and preliminary
support for the changes which will be presented at Congress in 2019.
They serve as key channels in increasing awareness, communicating and
engaging other Members in the transition. EC members have a key role
to play as communicators and champions for the change management
plan.
Presidents of Regional Elected leaders directly implicated by changes to the governance of RAs,
Associations (RAs) who can serve as champions to spread awareness and build acceptance
among regional Members, experts and others on the need for, and
benefits of, change at the regional level.
Presidents of Technical Elected leaders directly implicated by changes to the governance of
Commissions (TCs) TCs, and who can serve as advocates to raise awareness and build
acceptance among global technical experts on the need for, and benefits
of, change. As scientific and technical leaders in WMO, Presidents of
TCs will ensure the continued relevance and preservation of WMO’s
strong technical foundations in the transition to a more integrated and
horizontal future governance.
Experts The many experts involved in WMO’s TCs, RAs and other teams and
working groups which will be affected by changes to governance
will need to be engaged in, and supportive of, the transition, to
ensure continued credibility of WMO and value and visibility for their
contributions.
WMO Secretariat Staff WMO Secretariat structure will be reorganized to align better with
updated governance. Staff of WMO work with TCs, RAs and EC, as well
as with Members and experts around the world. Their engagement
and support during foundational shifts in WMO’s governance will assist
in broader understanding and support for changes among the many
stakeholders of WMO.
TARGET AUDIENCES: EXTERNAL STAKEHOLDERS (examples only)

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
World Health Organization (WHO)
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
UN Bodies
Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
International Maritime Organization (IMO)
World Bank
Intergovernmental Board Climate Services (IBCS) of the Global Framework
Other key International for Climate Services
Bodies and Agencies European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites
(EUMETSAT)
European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF)
International Forum of Meteorological Societies (IFMS)
Research institutions and Meteorological and Oceanographic Societies (such as the American (AMS)
other societies Australian (AMOS), Canadian (CMOS), etc.)
International Council for Science (ICSU)
Private sector entities The Association of Hydro-Meteorological Equipment Industry (HMEI)
The overarching rationale for engagement with these key external stakeholders is to actively
communicate WMO’s proposals for reform, consult on implications and communicate benefits,
and to reassure partners on how WMO’s changes will enhance the WMO’s ability to contribute to
the broader global agendas and mandates of these stakeholders.
SUMMARY OF COMMUNICATIONS OBJECTIVES BY TARGET AUDIENCE

Internal audience External audience
Inform and Raise Awareness on content and plans Inform and Raise Awareness on content and plans
Build Buy-In and Engagement for the Highlight the benefits of the reform for
transformation stakeholders
Identify internal champions to further engage and Identify and create opportunities for enhanced
communicate (i.e. cascading communications) the dialogue between WMO and external stakeholders
rationale and benefits of the proposals to advance the common goals of the global agenda
around weather, water and climate
OVERARCHING KEY MESSAGES
1. TRANSFORMING TO MAXIMIZE EFFECTIVENESS WHILE MAINTAINING WMO

EXCELLENCE
The WMO is dedicated to maintaining its core business and mitigating any disruptions to its
work during and after any transition. Recognizing that any significant change will have impacts
on programs and activities, WMO is committed to addressing the concerns of Members and
stakeholders, and identifying and mitigating risks and any negative consequences.
2. THE CHANGES HAVE MANY BENEFITS TO MEMBERS, STAKEHOLDERS AND

SOCIETY
The current WMO governance structure can be improved and optimized to better meet the
need of its Members, external stakeholders and position the organization to more visibly and
effectively contribute to the global agenda. The movement away from a silo approach, and
toward an integrated approach to addressing weather, water and climate issues, will maximize
the organization’s flexibility and adaptability regarding its role in facilitating and enabling
Members to efficiently and effectively deliver meteorological and hydrological information
and services. Undergoing this governance review aims to create more nimble and efficient
structures that align with current priorities of its Members, and positions the WMO to contribute
more optimally to the global agenda.
3. CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT IS A MANAGEMENT BEST PRACTICE
In the spirit of continual improvement, there is a need to continually explore options to ensure
Member concerns are received and addressed. Constituent Body structures and governance
should be reviewed and approved by every Congress. Receiving and responding to feedback
from Members and other stakeholders on the impact of reform will allow for continual
improvement.
ELABORATION OF KEY MESSAGES
Targeted to internal audiences
• Better align governance and the Secretariat structure with strategic priorities (form will
follow function) and facilitate the delivery and implementation of Congress priorities and
the Strategic Plan.
• More efficiently use resources in order to better serve societal and national needs for
weather, water and climate information and services.
• Streamline and better integrate programmes and activities, with clear management
responsibilities.
• Create mechanisms to build greater alignment and engagement of weather, climate and
water agencies and partners in order to increase the support to NMHSs and cooperation
among NMSs and NHSs.
• Support WMO’s holistic Earth System approach through integrated and horizontal
structures to enable delivery of multi-hazard and impact-based seamless services.
• Reinforce mandate for constituent body review at each Congress to:

– address the changing needs and concerns of Members;
– improve the productivity of sessions by aligning them with the WMO four-year cycle;
and
– become more flexible and adaptable to changing priorities and contexts, and reduce
redundancies.
Targeted to external audiences
• Better position the Organization to serve the needs of the global agenda (e.g. Disaster
Risk Reduction, Climate, Sustainable Development, resilience, etc.), and therefore further
international cooperation.
• Better enable the participation of public, private, academic, and other interest groups in
WMO discussions and to inform decision making processes.
• Engage key partners in WMO activities to enhance the impact and to ensure sustainable
resources and visibility (such as World Bank (WB), International Civil Aviation Organization
(ICAO), International Maritime Organization (IMO), etc.).
• Create a more holistic Earth System monitoring and modelling capability to serve national,
regional and global service demands.
• Address the growing global need for weather, climate and water expertise.
METHODOLOGIES OF ENGAGEMENT
1. Engagement Tools
Different formal and informal communications tools and methodologies, on a variety of

platforms, will be used to inform and engage internal and external stakeholders of WMO’s
change management plan, and to articulate the details and benefits of the proposed changes.
Primarily, a Website, emails, meetings and surveys will be used to communicate internally.
Meanwhile, status reports, briefings, formal meetings with stakeholders, surveys, Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQs), and explanatory memoranda will be used for external communications.
A cascading champions approach will be used to deliver information; information will travel
from WMO leadership to leads of RAs and TCs, whom will convey the same information to other
groups such as task teams and working groups.
2. Regular communications for a wide range of stakeholders
A critical success factor for effective change management is the issuance of regular, digestible
and orderly messages from leadership. This outreach has already begun, with presentations
by the Secretary General and senior WMO officials at sessions of Regional Associations and
other events with key stakeholders, regarding the background and rationale for this reform.
This type of communications will continue, with updates on the progress of each element
of the governance reform will follow in terms of potential new arrangements, updates on
the evaluation of the Strategic Plan and priorities which the new governance structures will
deliver on. At the same time, effective mechanisms for two-way communication will provide
opportunity to Members and stakeholders to provide advice and proposals on the course of the
reform to enable continuous improvement.
3. A centralized source of information
Successful change management relies on sharing information with stakeholders. An effective

approach in other organizations has been the establishment of a central web-based portal which
serves as a resource for information about all aspects of the transformation. A comprehensive
and central resource of information would enhance transparency of the reform process and
reduce concerns and potential resistance to the proposed changes. Creating a dedicated
WMO Reform webpage would inform Members and external stakeholders, and build situational
awareness about the transition process
FIGURE 1: WMO PROPOSED STRATEGIC PLAN

FIGURE 2: CURRENT GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE
WMO Constituent Bodies Reform Task Force (CBR-TF)
1. Scope and time span
The CBR-TF will perform an oversight function with regard to the implementation of the
WMO Constituent Bodies Reform Transition Plan and Communication Strategy. The group will be
active from July 2018 until the completion of the transition of the CBR.
2. Terms of Reference
A. To regularly review the Transition Plan and provide guidance and support to the
Secretary-General on its development; and provide a report on the updated
Transition Plan to Cg-18.
B. To monitor the implementation of the Transition Plan through a set of success

indicators and provide guidance to the Secretariat on corrective actions as
necessary.
C. To monitor the implementation of the WMO Constituent Body Reform Communication

Strategy, provide advice on outreach materials and events, and assess their
outcomes.
D. Provide progress reports to the Cg-18 (June, 2019), EC-71 (June, 2019) and a final
report to the EC-72 (June, 2020).
3. Composition
The CBR-TF will be chaired by Prof. Gerhard ADRIAN and composed by the following EC
members: Phil EVANS, Louis UCCELLINI, Toshihiko HASHIDA, David GRIMES, Maxim
YAKOVENKO, Albert MARTIS, Chin Ling WONG, Mamadou Lamine BAH, Guillermo NAVARRO. The
CBR-TF Chairperson may invite additional expert to support the work of the task force.
4. Working mechanisms
The CBR-TF will conduct regular meetings through videoconferencing and face-to-face meetings.
A special webpage on the CBR will be a place for posting relevant materials reflecting the work
of the task force. Secretarial support will be provided by the CER Department.
Financial statements of WMO for the year 2017
Noting Articles 14 and 15 of the Financial Regulations,
Having considered the statement of the Secretary-General on the financial statements of the
Organization for the year ended 31 December 2017, the report of the external auditor to the
Executive Council, and the recommendations of the WMO Audit Committee and the Financial
Advisory Committee (see Part II of the present report),
Noting also that the Secretary-General has taken swift action to appoint a consultant whose
terms of reference include developing a comprehensive implementation plan for all open
external auditor recommendations by end of July 2018, and making a study of the weaknesses
and appropriate recommendations for overall strengthening of internal controls;
Gives formal approval to the audited financial statements for WMO for the year 2017 (see
Part II of the present report);
(1) To transmit the financial statements together with the reports of the consultant and the
external auditor to all Members of WMO;
(2) To take step-by-step actions to address the external auditor’s observations and
recommendations on internal control with a view to implementing all of the
recommendations by Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress (June 2019);
(3) To develop a separate proposal for addressing the year-on-year operating deficits, clearly
indicating whether this is going to have an impact on the Organization and when;
(4) To report progress on these matters to the Executive Council;
Encourages the Secretary-General to conduct a review of the internal control frameworks of

other United Nations agencies to incorporate United Nations-wide best practices and lessons
learnt into the WMO internal control system;
Notes with concern the substantial amounts of outstanding assessed contributions of certain
Members;
Urges the Members to clear their dues at an early date as delayed settlement exposes the
Secretariat to the risk of not paying its obligations when they become due.
Amendments to the staff regulations and rules
Noting United Nations General Assembly Resolution 70/244 – United Nations common system:
Report of the International Civil Service Commission, which approved extensive changes to the
conditions of service and the compensation package for the United Nations common system as
a result of the comprehensive review undertaken by the International Civil Service Commission
in 2015;
Recalling Decision 70 (EC-69) – Amendments of Regulations and Rules, in which the Executive
Council:
(1) Noted the amendments made to the Staff Rules and the development of a consolidated
document of the Staff Regulations and Rules,
(2) Requested a revision to the Staff Regulations on the mandatory age of separation,
Recalling also Staff Regulation 12.3, which requires that Staff Regulations be amended by the
World Meteorological Congress; however, if it would not be in the interests of the Organization
to defer an amendment until the next session of Congress, such amendment may be made by
the Executive Council, in which case this amendment is subject to the approval by Congress at
its next session,
Decides, subject to the approval by Congress, to amend the Staff Regulations as follows:
Staff Regulation 9.5 to read:
Staff members shall not be retained in active service beyond the age of 65 years. The
Secretary-General may, in the interests of the Organization, retain staff members in
service beyond this age limit in exceptional cases;
The retention of a staff member in the Professional category beyond the age of 65 shall
require the authorization of the Executive Council;
Staff Regulation 3.4 to read:

The Secretary-General shall establish a scheme for the payment of dependency benefits,
education grants and such other allowances as he/she may consider necessary in the
interest of the Organization and in accordance with grants, allowances and benefits
afforded to the United Nations personnel;
Takes note of the consolidated document of Staff Regulations and Rules, which incorporates:
(1) All regulations and rules previously approved or noted;
(2) The aforementioned amendment to Staff Regulation 9.5;
(3) Consolidated changes emanating from United Nations General Assembly Resolution
70/244;
(4) Updated salary scales and other entitlement rates as issued by the International Civil
Service Commission and the United Nations Secretariat;
Takes note also that the aforementioned amendment to Staff Regulation 3.4 shall be included
in the consolidated document.
Review of previous resolutions and decisions
Noting:
(1) Resolution 23 (EC-69) – Review of previous resolutions of the Executive Council,
(2) Decision 76 (EC-69) – Review of previous decisions of the Executive Council,
(3) Article 14 (c) of the Convention of the World Meteorological Organization regarding the
functions of the Executive Council in considering and where necessary taking action on
resolutions, in accordance with the procedures laid down in the General Regulations,
(4) Regulation 156 (9) of the General Regulations (2015 edition), concerning the review of
the Executive Council resolutions, and Rule 27 of the Rules of Procedure of the Executive
Council,
Taking into account the body of decisions agreed by the Executive Council at its sixty-ninth
session,
Having examined the Council’s previous resolutions and decisions still in force,
Decides:
(1) To keep in force the following resolutions:

EC-IV 2
EC-XII 6
EC-XXXIV 13
EC-XXXV 21
EC-XXXVI 6
EC-XL 4
EC-XLIV 15
EC-XLV 13
EC-XLVIII 4, 12
EC-LI 5
EC-LVI 9, 18
EC-LVII 5
EC-LVIII 15
EC-LIX 16, 17, 19, 26
EC-LX 4, 6, 18
EC-LXI 4, 8, 14
EC-LXIII 8, 13
EC-64 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 22, 23, 24*
EC-65 3, 12
EC-66 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 18, 22 1,
EC-67 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12
EC-68 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12
EC-69 1, 6, 8, 11,12, 15, 17, 19, 21
(2) Not to keep in force the other resolutions adopted before the Council’s seventieth session.
Also decides:
(1) To keep in force the following decisions:

EC-68: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 , 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 24, 27, 28, 30,
33, 36, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 51, 52, 53, 55, 56, 57, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65,
66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 93, 94
EC-69: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 23, 25, 26, 27,
28, 30, 31, 33, 34, 36, 37, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54,
55, 56, 57, 58, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 72, 73
(2) Not to keep in force the other decisions adopted before its seventieth session;
Noting also the status of implementation of the resolutions of the World Meteorological
Congress, and that actions emanating from these resolutions, particularly those of the
Seventeenth World Meteorological Congress, are in progress, and a considerable number have
already been completed,
Requests the Secretary-General to publish the in-force resolutions and decisions of the
Council, including those with corrigenda, in a new issue of Resolutions of Congress and the
Executive Council (WMO-No. 508) and to bring this publication to the attention of all concerned
parties.
Note: The present resolution replaces Resolution 23 (EC-69) and Decision 76 (EC-69), which
are no longer in force.
APPENDIX 3. DECISIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION
Decision 1 (EC-70)
Organization of the session
Approves the provisional agenda as proposed by the President;
Adopts the establishment of committees as:
(1) Committee on strategic and operational planning and budget 2020–2023:
Chairperson: Dr Andrea Celeste Saulo, Second Vice-President
Members: open
(2) Committee on constituent body reform:
Chairperson: Professor Dr Gerhard Adrian
Members: open
Agrees the programme of work of the session:
(1) Working hours of the meetings: 9.30–12.30 and 14.30–17.30;
(2) Arrangement and allocation of agenda items for the session;
Notes General Regulation 112 for the approval of the minutes.
Decision 2 (EC-70)
Consideration of the reports
The Executive Council,
(1) Paid tribute to the President, who was chairing his last session of the Council, thanking him
for his crucial contribution to the Organization during over twenty-five years of service;
(2) Noted the reports of the President of WMO, presidents of regional associations and
the Secretary-General, highlighting progress in the activities of the Organization, its
constituent bodies and the Secretariat, since the last session of the Council;
(3) Noted the decisions made by the President on behalf of the Council since its last session
under General Regulation 9 (7) and Article 9.5 of the Staff Regulations;
(4) Dealt with the reports of presidents of technical commissions, in particular

recommendations of sessions held during last year, under the respective agenda items;
(5) Considered recommendations of meetings of presidents of regional associations and

technical commissions under the respective agenda items;
(6) Noted that the reports will be consolidated in a single volume following the session.
Decision 3 (EC-70)
Further implementation of the WMO Disaster Risk Reduction Roadmap
The Executive Council decides to:
(1) Endorse the recommendations of the Executive Council Working Group on Disaster Risk
Reduction (EC WG/DRR, see EC-70/INF. 3), namely to:
(a) Implement the WMO DRR Roadmap on national, regional and global levels,
(b) Monitor its further implementation in line with the draft WMO Strategic Plan and
its Key Performance Indicators (especially its Goal 1), including recurring reviews
of requirements of Members and United Nations (UN) and humanitarian agencies
(HAs) and identifying how this implementation further contributes to achieving the
relevant goals and targets set in other international frameworks, especially in view of
a seamless approach to reducing the risks from weather-, water-, and climate-related
hazards and the role National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) are
playing in all components of disaster risk management (including for reducing risks
from non-hydrometeorological hazards) under national legislation,
(2) Request the technical commissions, regional associations and technical (including co-
sponsored) programmes, assisted by their DRR Focal Points (WMO DRR FP RA-TC-TP), to:
(a) Ensure that their work plans align with the DRR Roadmap,
(b) Map progress with relevant resolutions and decisions against the objectives of the
DRR Roadmap and monitor its implementation with the help of quantitative indicators,
(3) Request the regional associations to support the regional implementation of the WMO DRR
Roadmap through:
(a) Facilitating the enhancement of national and trans-boundary multi-hazard early

warning services of their Members, benefitting from regional support mechanisms,
(b) Establishing regional, if needed inter-regional, working groups on DRR to better

address regional and national differences in capacities and region-specific hazards,
(c) Working closely with the DRR Coordination Mechanism of the Commission for Basic
Systems (CBS),
(4) Request Members to:
(a) Continue to engage their NMHSs at the highest level of their national DRR and climate
change adaptation mechanisms and include representatives of NMHSs in their national
delegations to the Regional and Global Platforms for DRR and other key stakeholder
fora,
APPENDIX 3. DECISIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION 143
(b) Address and consider the uniqueness of national and local sociocultural conditions
in the development and delivery of services by the NMHSs, including indigenous
knowledge, gender aspects and increased participation of younger generations and
persons with disabilities in DRR-related capacity development activities in order to
sustain resilience levels,
(c) Consider contributing to the second Multi-Hazard Early Warning Conference (MHEWC-
II) – a joint effort of the partner organizations of the International Network for
Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (IN-MHEWS) planned for 13–14 May 2019 prior
to and as an input to the sessions related to early warning at the 2019 Global Platform
for DRR (GP2019) with formal sessions taking place from 15 to 17 May 2019 – through
voluntary and/or in-kind contributions and participation of NMHS staff,
(d) Continue to nominate WMO DRR Focal Points (through their NMHSs) which will be
recorded in the WMO Country Profile Database (CPDB), as requested by EC-68, and
who will assist with monitoring the implementation of the WMO DRR Roadmap,
(e) Contribute to WMO mechanisms and events on meteorological, hydrological and

climate services for improved humanitarian planning and response (planned for
Q4 2018 and Q1 2019),
(f) Consider providing in-kind support for translating the WMO DRR Roadmap in WMO
official languages,
(5) Request the Secretary-General to:
(a) Make available the WMO DRR Roadmap which was approved by the WMO President
in April 2017 in all official languages; propose updates of its vision and monitoring
framework to the EC WG/DRR for consideration and agreement, in line with the
new WMO Strategic Plan as well as with stronger linkages to climate resilience; and
promote it among Members, the UN and other stakeholders,
(b) Provide an overview of: (i) WMO activities against the framework of the WMO DRR
Roadmap, (ii) governance/implementation mechanisms, and (iii) capacities and key
gaps and needs of Members/NMHSs, including absorption capacity for projects and
funds,
(c) Map constituent body resolutions and decisions related to DRR since Cg-17 and
provide a progress update to Cg-18,
(d) Plan priority activities to be conducted before Cg-18 and aligned with the DRR
Roadmap – including deliverables, milestones, timeframes, levels (global to national),
responsibilities and resources needed/available – that are derived from the plans
of various WMO activities contributing to DRR; update the plan on a biennial basis
for approval by EC/Congress, benefitting from the needs, priorities and resource
requirements expressed e.g. in the GFCS and Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems
(CREWS) documents; and focus on impact-based forecasts and actionable, risk-based
warnings through developing respective decision-support systems ,
(e) Ensure agreements are established between Regional Climate Centres (RCCs) and
WMO on projects such as CREWS in order to provide climate services for DRR and
emergency management at the regional level,
(f) Develop DRR-specific education and training material for capacity development
(including training of trainers) that utilizes existing mechanisms and document,
share and leverage best practices of Members and lessons learnt in risk assessment,
prevention, preparedness, and response and ensure respective training of NMHS staff
and the transfer of methods, tools and products developed by e.g. RCCs and their
partners within the framework of specific projects (e.g. Climate Services for DRR in
Africa under the Monitoring for Environment and Security in Africa (MESA) programme
of the European Union and the African Union) ,
(g) Support the development, update, harmonization, cross-referencing and promotion

of technical regulations, manuals, standards and guidelines by relevant technical
commissions along the four elements of effective early warning systems – (i) disaster
risk knowledge, (ii) detection, monitoring, analysis and forecasting of the hazards
and possible consequences, (iii) warning dissemination and communication,
(iv) preparedness and response capabilities – including updates to the Atlas
of Mortality and Economic Losses from Weather, Climate and Water Extremes
(1970–2012),
(h) Mobilize expertise along the four elements of effective early warning systems to
support NMHSs and WMO global and regional centres with the support of projects
(such as those of the CREWS portfolio) and in line with WMO programmes, the GFCS
and DRR user-interface mechanisms,
(i) Coordinate expert assistance from WMO Members, including from their WMO global
and regional centres, to Members and their NMHSs in emergency situations, as well as
to UN/Humanitarian agencies, and,
(j) Align with and contribute to the cross-cutting UN agendas on DRR, climate change
adaptation, and humanitarian and urban issues, such as the UN Plan of Action on DRR
for Resilience.
(See EC-70/INF. 3 – Report of the EC WG/DRR).
Decision justification:
The EC WG/DRR underlined that:

(a) There is a distinction between DRR capacities of Members (governments) and NMHSs,
(b) There is a need for weather, climate and water aspects to be sufficiently and coherently
reflected in WMO DRR work,
(c) These activities contribute to the GFCS in line with the Framework and Mechanism of WMO
contributions to the GFCS and their implementation is informed by the priorities and needs
identified in the DRR Exemplar of the GFCS and the Priority Needs 2016–2018 document,
and
(d) Other initiatives are leveraged and contributed to, such as the CREWS initiative, which is
already co-sponsoring key WMO DRR-related activities, or the Forecast-based Financing
(FbF) initiative of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
(IFRC),
Relevant Decisions and Resolutions of Cg-17 and EC:

(a) Decision 3 (EC-68) – WMO Disaster Risk Reduction Governance, User-Interface
Mechanisms and Disaster Risk Reduction Roadmap that established the WMO DRR
governance, requested a final draft of the Roadmap for approval by the President of
WMO, invited Members to nominate WMO DRR Focal Points, urged representatives of the
WMO co-sponsored programmes, joint initiatives and partner organizations to actively
engage with the WMO DRR governance bodies, and called for closer cooperation with the
implementation mechanisms of the GFCS,
(b) Decision 16 (EC-68) – Country-focused results-based framework and mechanism for WMO
contributions to the GFCS,
(c) Resolution 5 (EC-67) – EC WG/DRR which established the EC WG/DRR and its Terms of
Reference that include providing guidance on developing the WMO DRR Roadmap and its
subsequent updates as required,
(d) Resolution 6 (EC-67) – A mechanism to advance WMO contribution to the Global

Framework for Climate Services,
(e) Resolution 10 (Cg-17) – Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015−2030 and
WMO participation in the International Network for Multi-hazard Early Warning Systems,
(f) Resolution 64 (Cg-17) – Development of a results-based framework for WMO support to
the implementation of the Global Framework for Climate Services, which requests EC,
with the participation of technical commissions, regional associations and co-sponsored
programmes, to implement and monitor a mechanism to advance the WMO contribution to
the GFCS in line with the results-based framework,
(g) Resolution 52 (Cg-XVI) – Disaster Risk Reduction Programme, which laid out the strategic
priorities of the WMO DRR Programme,
The Draft Decision takes into account the:

(a) Draft Strategic Plan (Recommendation 20 (EC-70)), especially the Strategic Objective
1.1 “Strengthen national multi-hazard early warning systems and extend reach to better
enable effective response to the associated risks”,
(b) Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 that addresses risks from all
hazards, both natural and man-made, with many provisions highly relevant to NMHSs (such
as Targets E and G);
(c) National, Regional and Global Platforms for DRR which are effective mechanisms for NMHSs
to engage in multi-stakeholder forums that reflect the commitment of governments to
improve coordination and implementation of DRR activities while linking to international
and national efforts, as laid out in Section 3.2 – WMO disaster risk reduction services of
the Abridged Final Report of Cg-17.
(d) GFCS and CREWS which provide further frameworks and funding mechanisms for the
implementation of WMO DRR priority activities, in view of the need to ensure a seamless
provision of weather and climate services in support of DRR,
(e) Establishment of the CREWS Secretariat and Joint Office at WMO during the EC68 – EC69
intersessional period, a cooperative effort by WMO, the World Bank’s Global Facility for
Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR) and the UN Office for DRR (UNISDR) for the
initiative funded by currently six donors,
(f) Outcomes of the First Multi-hazard Early Warning Conference (MHEWC-I) in 2017, a key
effort by the International Network for MHEWS (IN-MHEWS), which resulted in the updated
MHEWS Checklist,
(g) Contributions by the WMO Flood Forecasting Initiative (FFI) to WMO’s DRR work, especially
multi-hazard early warning services, and
(h) Outcomes of the HydroConference: Global Conference for Prosperity through Hydrological
Services (7–9 May 2018, Geneva) relevant to the WMO DRR priority,
(i) The importance of the involvement and contributions of the private sector in DRR activities,
especially in the prevention/mitigation phase or as early as possible and not only after a
disaster has happened, as government resources only are not sufficient,
(j) Examples for standardization, such as for community-based landslide early warning
systems (ISO TC 22327) based on experiences from Indonesia.
The Regional Platforms for DRR planned in 2018/19 in which representatives from NMHSs could
attend and actively engage in sessions and side events, include:
(a) Americas (Cartagena, Colombia, 20–22 June 2018),
(b) Central Asia/Caucasus (Yerevan, Armenia, 26–27 June 2018),
(c) Asia and Pacific (Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, 3–6 July 2018),
(d) Africa-Arab (Tunisia, 9–13 October 2018), and
(e) Europe (Italy, 21–23 November 2018).
Consultations with humanitarian agencies are planned in Q4 2018 and Q1 2019, both high-level
consultations (to forge a framework agreement for the provision of meteorological, hydrological
and climate data, products and services for improved humanitarian response and recovery
efforts) and on a working level (expert workshops and engagement in key humanitarian fora
to review humanitarian agency requirements for weather, water and climate information and
products and outline a sustainable mechanism for supporting these agencies).
The Second Multi-Hazard Early Warning Conference (MHEWC-II) will review the progress made
by countries as well as their gaps and needs with respect to MHEWS since the adoption of the
Sendai Framework for DRR 2015–2030 in Sendai in 2015 and since the first Multi-Hazard Early
Warning Conference (MHEWC-2017). It will collect and discuss good practices and will outline
concrete steps to address the gaps and challenges of Members and their NMHSs and other
technical agencies to implement impact-based and risk-informed warnings. The Conference will
also explore regional and global needs for national warnings and related hazard information
as well as opportunities and challenges for NMHSs and other technical agencies to support
humanitarian response and recovery operations.
Decision 4 (EC-70)
Development of the Global Multi-hazard Alert System
The Executive Council decides:
(1) To request the Executive Council Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (EC WG/DRR)’s
Expert Group on GMAS (EG-GMAS) to gather additional user requirements according to
the Plan developed by EC WG/DRR based on the drafts developed by the EG-GMAS at its
meetings held in October 2017 and March 2018 with support from the Secretariat (EC-70/
INF. 3.2),
(2) To request the EC WG/DRR to:
(a) Document best practices of Members regarding multi-hazard early warning systems
(MHEWS)/GMAS and assess how these may help deliver to the documented user
requirements ,
(b) Based on the requirements, develop options for the implementation of GMAS,
including a full featured option to meet all of the user requirements, as well as a
minimum viable product which delivers to a subset of prioritized requirements, for
consideration by Congress ,
(c) Based on the identified options , assess the budget and funds needed, including the
budgetary requirements for NMHSs based on their responsibilities on NMHSs,
(d) Finalize the GMAS Concept based on the outcome of the user requirement exercise,
(e) Liaise with existing service providers such as the Global Disaster Alerting Coordination
System (GDACS) – a joint initiative of the United Nations Office for the Coordination
of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), United Nations Institute for Training and Research
(UNITAR) Operational Satellite Applications Programme (UNOSAT) and the European
Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) – which already provide severe weather
services to the global community,
(f) Undertake a status review of Members, who provide warning products to the WMO
Information System (WIS), which would inform the GMAS cost analysis, Concept and
implementation plan,
(3) To submit the GMAS Concept, along with key elements for a possible implementation plan
, including responsibilities, and the additional requirements collected and cost estimates to
Congress for approval,
(4) To support Members, especially those of developing countries, Least Developed Countries
(LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDSs), in strengthening their capacity to
develop, interpret, disseminate and apply MHEWS information for their decision makers,
(5) To encourage regional associations and Members to continue their efforts in the
development of and involvement in MHEWS/GMAS – in partnership with technical
commissions – and to share their best practice at national, subregional, regional and global
levels, such as Meteoalarm of the European Meteorological Services Network (EUMETNET),
Meteoalert of the Federal Service for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring of
the Russian Federation (Roshydromet), South-East European Multi-Hazard Early Warning
Advisory System (SEE-MHEWS-A) and GMAS Asia,
(6) To request the Secretary-General to support the EC WG/DRR and its EG-GMAS in the
above tasks and to promote and facilitate sharing of lessons learnt and best practices of
Members, including multi-hazard alert platforms mentioned above.
1. Recommendations from the EC WG/DRR-II (EC-70/INF. 3):
2. The EC WG/DRR’s Expert Group on GMAS (EG-GMAS) developed the GMAS Concept, the
Strategy and the Plan to document user requirements (EC-70/INF. 3.2).
3. GMAS will neither replace, nor duplicate what already exists and was developed under the
auspices of the WMO technical commissions and regional associations. It will be strongly
aligned with the World Meteorological Centres, Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres
(RSMCs) with geographical specialization, for specialized activities, marine activities non-
real-time coordination activities and general purpose activities, Regional Climate Centres
(RCCs), as well as other centres specified in the Manual on Global Data-processing and
Forecasting System, WMO-No. 485. GMAS will also be aligned with practices and principles
already used in other projects, such as for the Severe Weather Forecasting Demonstration
Project (SWFDP) and Coastal Inundation Forecasting Demonstration Project (CIFDP).
4. Recommendation by the EG-GMAS as presented to the EC WG/DRR, namely that (a) GMAS
could be built on the alert hub technology, prototyped by the U.S. National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Big Data Project, to enable timely aggregation of
relevant authoritative warnings and alerts related to high-impact weather, water, ocean
and climate events towards an Earth Systems approach, and (b) GMAS can also leverage
WIS to maintain a repository of authorized warnings, alerts and related information
and to distribute this information to authorized users. Using WIS will guarantee no-cost
implication to NMHSs in implementing this initial module of GMAS.
5. Recommendation by the EG-GMAS as presented to the EC WG/DRR, namely that the World
Weather Information Service (WWIS) and the Severe Weather Information Centre (SWIC)
were considered as initial core components of GMAS. They will be developed further to
the so called enhanced SWIC/WWIS that will provide a web-based user interface with
a Geographical Information Systems (GIS)-based map display to GMAS users, ensuring
the attribution of WMO and NMHSs as authoritative sources of warnings and alerts. This
module is being developed by the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) as an in-kind contribution
to the development of GMAS. Furthermore, the Worldwide Met-Ocean Information and
Warning Service (WWMIWS) web portal hosted by Météo-France already provides many of
the functional requirements of the GMAS Concept aimed at shipping users in a simple, low
cost but effective manner.
6. The EC WG/DRR, at its second session in April 2018, appreciated significant work done
by the EG-GMAS on developing the Concept, Strategy and the Plan to document user
requirements. It was agreed that the additional requirements have to be gathered,
verified and analysed before the Concept could be finalized. Gathering of additional
user requirements will proceed in parallel with the finalization of the Concept, so that
the Concept can be submitted to Cg-18 for consideration. The EC WG/DRR demanded
that, in addition to what was requested by EC-69, the Concept should also include a cost
estimation.
7. The EC WG/DRR agreed to submit the Plan to document user requirements to EC‑70 for
consideration.
Decision 5 (EC-70)
Support to the United Nations and humanitarian agencies
(1) To develop a coordination mechanism that enables easy access to authoritative information
and provision of expert advice to the United Nations and humanitarian agencies to respond
to their immediate requests in anticipation of, and during or after hydrometeorological
hazard situations,
(2) To align the development of the coordination mechanism with the development of the
Global Multi-hazard Alert System (GMAS) concept, by engaging and utilizing the Global
Data Processing and Forecasting System (GDPFS) centres and benefitting from relevant
demonstration projects,
(3) To request the EC WG/DRR to provide guidance on the development and performance of
the coordination mechanism,
(4) To request the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS), in coordination with other technical
commissions, to contribute to the development of the coordination mechanism,
(5) To request regional associations and Members to contribute to and participate in this
mechanism.
(6) To request the Secretary-General to:
(a) Consult regularly with relevant United Nations and humanitarian agencies on their
requirements for authoritative information and expert advice,
(b) Facilitate development of an appropriate mechanism, in collaboration with technical

commissions and regional associations,
(c) Facilitate participation of Members, as well as WMO GDPFS centres in that mechanism,
(d) Support strengthening of Members’ capacities to provide services to the UN and

humanitarian agencies,
Decision justification: Recommendations from the EC WG/DRR-II:
1. Decision 13 (EC-68) calls to establish partnership agreements with humanitarian

agencies, which would be followed by concrete actions such as the development of standard
operating procedures for a coordinated WMO response to major disasters upon the request of
humanitarian agencies. The United Nations and humanitarian agencies urgently require an easy
access to authoritative information, including a provision of information to be augmented by a
consultation and interpretation,
2. The EC WG/DRR, recognized that there is certain urgency to enable an easy access to
authoritative information, including a provision of an expert advice, to the United Nations and
humanitarian agencies,
3. The EC WG/DRR agreed that a provision of information to the United Nations and
humanitarian agencies should be augmented by a consultation and interpretation to enable the
full value of the information to be translated into their efficient and effective action.
Decision 6 (EC-70)
Implementation of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change activities
(1) To congratulate the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) on its thirtieth
anniversary, noting with appreciation the information provided by the IPCC Chairperson in
his report and the success of the IPCC in stabilizing and improving its financial situation;
(2) To acknowledge the significant contributions of Members to IPCC in 2017 and to call on
Members to maintain, and whenever possible, to increase their financial support to IPCC
activities through contributions to the IPCC in order to ensure a required level of financial
resources in the IPCC Trust Fund crucial to ensure completion of activities and products in
the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) cycle;
(3) To foster WMO and Members’ support to research and provision of information, and
engagement in activities related to the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report including all Special
Reports;
(4) To urge Members to actively participate in the activities of the IPCC, in particular through
the contribution of scientists and experts from NMHSs, especially from developing
countries and to maintain close collaboration of NMHSs with the IPCC focal points, when
the focal point is not an NMHS;
(1) To promote active participation of WMO technical, scientific and co-sponsored programmes
in the planned IPCC activities on the development of AR6 products;
(2) To contribute to expanding ongoing IPCC outreach efforts, including through co‑branding
and joint promotion of IPCC processes and products.
Decision justification: Voluntary contributions by Member countries to the IPCC Trust

Fund have been reduced in the years prior to 2016, coinciding with a very intense work plan for
the Sixth Assessment Report Cycle. Noting as well the resource mobilization strategy that has
been undertaken by the IPCC Chair and the secretariat is providing encouraging results and the
necessity to continue efforts is recommended in order to ensure the successful completion of
three special reports, a methodological report, the three Working Group contributions to the
Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) and the AR6 Synthesis Report. (See EC-70/INF. 4.2 for more
information).
Decision 7 (EC-70)
Integrated urban services
The Executive Council:
(1) Decides to endorse the methodology for building integrated urban services developed
as Part I of the draft “Guide for Integrated Urban Weather, Environment and Climate
Services” (summary in Annex 1) and the outline for the “Guidelines for the Development
of an Integrated Operational Platform to Meet Urban Service Delivery Needs” (Annex 2)
being developed as per Decision 41 (EC-69) under the leadership of the Commission of
Atmospheric Sciences (CAS) and the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) by an inter-
programme working group;
(2) Requests Members to provide feedback on the proposed drafts and further directions for
the completion of the Guide and Guidelines for consideration by the Cg-18;
(3) Encourages Members to contribute the good practices to Part II of the Guide and to
undertake pilot projects and share their feedbacks with the cross-programme Working
Group on Integrated Urban Hydrometeorological/Climate/Environment Services by Cg-18;
(4) Requests the Secretary-General to support the work of the cross-programme Working
Group on Integrated Urban Hydrometeorological/Climate/Environment Services within
available budgetary resources.
– Decision 41 (EC-69) requests to expedite the work on a Guide for Urban Integrated
Hydrometeorological/Climate/Environment Services, using the expertise of the WMO GAW
Urban Research Meteorology and Environment (GURME) that would steer the transition
from research to operations, to be approved by Cg-18. It further requests that CBS with
CAS, in consultation with other Technical Commissions, develop guidelines based on
Members’ best practices for an integrated operational platform, to support urban service
delivery needs;
– The Guide is being developed by the Working Group on Integrated Urban
Hydrometeorological/Climate/Environment Services, organized by CAS/RES that includes
representatives of CBS, CHy, WCRP, CIMO, GFCS, CCl and user community: Clean Air Asia,
ICLEI and IPCC. The CBS OPAG/PWSD is addressing the Guidelines. These documents
complement each other and constitute the chain from the services development (Part I),
best practices (Part II) and operational services delivery (the Guidelines);
– CBS Management Group (CBS-MG 2018) recommended EC to endorse the outline
guidelines following the outcomes of CBS TECO 2018 (Geneva, 26–29 March 2018).
See also EC-70/INF. 10.1 page 4.
Annex 1 to Decision 7 (EC-70)
Guide for Integrated Urban Weather, Environment and Climate Services
SUMMARY
Migration to cities creates densely populated environments and associated infrastructure, which
result in ever increasing vulnerabilities and exposure to natural and anthropogenic hazards.
The United Nations has identified “sustainable cities and communities” as one of its Sustainable
Development Goals.
This Guide articulates a vision to support this goal. Advances in high-resolution (space and
time) observation and prediction are permitting urban integrated hydrometeorological,
climate, marine meteorological and environmental prediction services to meet the needs and
requirements of cities. Although Urban Integrated Services are early in development and
capability, they include multi-hazard early warnings (such as severe weather, flooding, air
quality, health, storm surges, sea level rise) to urban design, planning and zoning that require
commensurate micro-climate information on the city-block scale.
From a disaster risk perspective, a cascade of impacts (“domino” effect) may occur in a city as
a consequence of an initial extreme event impacting a densely populated area as infrastructure
fails. Urban services are within the mandate of city governments. The provision and application
of hydrometeorological, climate, marine meteorological and environment urban services are
within the capability and capacity of World Meteorological Organization Members. Due to co-
dependencies, delivery of effective and efficient urban services requires the integration, the
co-operation and the collaboration amongst different scientific disciplines, different urban
professions, various levels of government, the public and the private sector.
Results from two surveys conducted indicate several Members have started implementation of
Urban Integrated Services. Urban service requirements are city-specific and, driven by many
local factors including: the natural and human-made environment, the science, the applications,
the infrastructure, the organizational structure, the mandates and the socioeconomic situation.
Indeed, the surveys identified that Members have existing capabilities to deliver urban
services but there is often a lack mutual-awareness. There is a lack of interaction, a lack of
understanding of the requirements and the capabilities of both the service providers and the
service users. The challenge of local versus national mandates, of roles and responsibilities
can only be solved through collaboration. Multi-disciplinary and multi-agency approaches are
needed. The surveys indicated different levels of maturity with respect to their implementation
of Urban Integrated Services. One size does not fit all.
The recommendations are:
(1) Members to assist decision makers and end-users on capabilities and services; it is
important not to wait for a disaster to act. There are examples of well-functioning urban
services that can be used as a template for development and implementation in specific
situations;
(2) Encourage Members to contribute in the development coordination and promotion of Urban
Integrated Services, including knowledge transfer;
(3) Ensure that legal and institutional frameworks are in place in the partnerships with cities
that clearly define Members mandates, roles and responsibilities to enable, to create and to
maintain the Urban Integrated Services;
(4) Engage with relevant stakeholders, (agencies, universities, the public, other Members, city
government, private sector), right from the beginning, including raising awareness and
getting feedback;
(5) Further research, particularly multi-disciplinary cross-cutting studies, is needed to develop

urban integrated service capabilities;
(6) Encourage Members to facilitate wider accessibility of data via influencing ownership issues
and technical support to enable Urban Integrated Services;
(7) Encourage WMO Members to showcase demonstration projects to promote and advance
the development and implementation of Urban Integrated Services.
The Guide (Part 1, Concept and Methodology) is available at: http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/

arep/gaw/documents/UrbanIntegratedServicesPart1aConceptandMethodologyEC-70.pdf.
Outline of Guidelines for the Development of an Integrated Operational Platform to

Meet Urban Service Delivery Needs
1. Introduction
The main goal of the Guidelines will be to articulate the operational and the delivery aspects
based on the Guide for Integrated Urban Weather, Environment, Marine Meteorological and
Climate Services and provide WMO Members with advice on practical considerations for, service
delivery to address the needs of urban communities, including value-added services, as part of
the work of the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs).
An integrated operational platform will need to draw on the advancements in technology

available through WIGOS and WIS to ensure that it is fully compliant with the “smart cities”
concept of high-density, high-resolution urban environmental information.
It will be important, when developing the Guidelines, to coordinate with other WMO activities,
in particular the GFCS, and relevant TCs and RAs. It is essential to realise that, at national
level, there are many agencies other than NMHSs engaged in urban services development and
provisions, for instance for air quality etc., and the Guidelines must reflect this multi-agency
reality and be attractive for the other than NMHS service providers. The guidelines should also
be flexible enough to allow for the integration aspects articulated in the Guide for Integrated
Urban Weather, Environment, Marine Meteorological and Climate Services. In regard to the
provision of high-resolution, multi-scale predictions to support urban needs, this requirement
will need to be addressed through the ongoing development of the seamless GDPFS.
While the climatological, hydrological, oceanographic and environmental aspects of the urban
environment will be comprehensively covered in the Guide, the integrated operational platform
should enable easy access to a climatology of impact-based indicators within cities, to facilitate
effective risk management in urban areas during periods of high-impact weather, recognizing
the potential domino effect of infrastructural failure and its consequences.
2. Content
The Guidelines currently include the following sections:

• Executive summary
• Background
• WMO Framework
– Constituent body decisions and recommendations
– Role of NMHSs
• Developing a strategy for urban services
• Partnerships and user engagement
• Urban services and products
– General considerations
– Types of services and products to be provided
• Water management (including flooding),
• Environmental services (including health),
• Land transport sector
• Marine Meteorological and Ocean services (Sea Level rise, Storm Surges, Coastal
inundation, etc.)
• Climate
– Data
• Operational aspects
• Service delivery aspects including dissemination and communication
• Pilot studies
• Capacity development and training
• Evaluation and assessments.
The Guidelines are to be developed based upon best practices and case studies of Members.
Best practices will be included in boxes as examples. Also the WMO Strategy for Service
Delivery and Its Implementation Plan (WMO-No. 1129) and, amongst others, the WMO
Guidelines on Multi-hazard Impact-based Forecast and Warning Services (WMO-No. 1150) will
be considered.
3. Timeline
The final version of the Guidelines is expected in January 2019 and will be presented to WMO at
Cg-18 in 2019.
Decision 8 (EC-70)
IG3IS Science Implementation Plan
The Executive Council decides to approve the IG3IS Science Implementation Plan endorsed
by the Commission for Atmospheric Sciences in which the executive summary is provided in the
Annex to this decision;
Requests the Secretary-General to provide support to the IG3IS activities and assist in
promoting IG3IS with funding agencies, and work with those Members, especially in developing
countries, who plan to undertake IG3IS projects, in pursuing extrabudgetary resources to do so;
Urges Members to undertake pilot and demonstration projects that facilitate implementation of
the IG3IS Implementation Plan;
Requests Members working with the Regional Associations to assign focal points for the
implementation of IG3IS and to scale up the existing initiatives for regional knowledge transfer
and capacity-building for IG3IS implementation in the Regions;
Requests Members to improve integration of atmospheric composition observations into the

national meteorological observing systems;
Requests the Commission for Atmospheric Sciences to coordinate with the appropriate
technical commissions, in particular the Commission for Basic Systems, in order to ensure
translation of the IG3IS scientific tools into operational services and contribution to WIGOS and
GDPFS;
Agrees that the governance of the IG3IS should be established taking into account the
Framework Memorandum of Understanding between the WMO and the Secretariat of the United
Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
See the Annex to the present decision.

Resolution 46 (Cg-17) highlights the main objectives and the key activities required for the
establishment of the Integrated Global Greenhouse Gas Information System (IG3IS),
Decision 19 (EC-68) approved the IG3IS Concept Paper and called for the development of the
IG3IS Implementation Plan by EC-70,
Decision 7 (EC-69) outlined IG3IS pilot projects as one of the way for WMO to support
implementation of the Paris Agreement,
Decision 51 (EC-69) requested the Commission for Atmospheric Sciences (CAS) to oversee the
development of the IG3IS Implementation Plan to be delivered by EC-70,
Collaboration Project “Observation-based tools for improved national greenhouse gas emission
estimates” under the Framework Memorandum of Understanding (2018) between the WMO and
the Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change aims at delivery
of the several IG3IS pilot projects.
The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) in the report1of its forty-
seventh session refers to IG3IS in the contexts of the increasing capability to systematically
monitor greenhouse gas concentrations and emissions, through in situ as well as satellite
observations, and its relevance in support of the Paris Agreement.
Switzerland provided financial assistance to the establishment of the IG3IS office and support of
the other countries will be essential in implementation of the IG3IS through the good practices
outline in the IG3IS Science Implementation Plan.
Annex to Decision 8 (EC-70)
IG3IS Science Implementation Plan
Executive Summary
IG3IS looks to serve users (decision-makers) who are able to take action to reduce emissions
of greenhouse gases and pollutants that reduce air quality. This service is based on existing
and successful methods and use-cases for which the scientific and technical skill is proven.
The ultimate success criteria are that the IG3IS information is “used” and guides valuable and
additional emission reduction actions, building confidence (and skill) in the role of atmospheric
composition measurements as an essential part of the climate change mitigation environmental
remediation tool kit.
The IG3IS takes a highly collaborative “Translation Atmospheric Sciences” approach to deliver
science-based services to potential stakeholders/users. Applications will not be initiated and
developed without intimate dialogue with users. In this way, researchers are able to learn the
value of envisioned information products, and users are introduced to previously unknown
capabilities that may drive them to address challenges in new ways. When these discussions
establish a value proposition commensurate with the level of investment, then project definition
can proceed based on user requirements. This plan presents the main concepts of IG3IS,
implementation principles and technical solutions.
The IG3IS Implementation Plan (full version).
1
http://unfccc.int/resource/docs/2017/sbsta/eng/07.pdf
Decision 9 (EC-70)
Promoting the use and interpretation of climate change projections on regional and
national scales
Noting:
(1) Recommendation 6 (CCl-17) – Good practices in the use and interpretation of climate
change projections on regional and national scales,
(2) Memorandum of Understanding signed by WMO with the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) that includes a project on regional collaboration
for supporting adaptation and mitigation action,
Noting further:
(1) That regional climate change projections, largely through downscaling of global model
simulations, are being extensively used by Members to assess multisector impacts and
implications for adaptation planning and that, in most cases, such studies are undertaken
at the national level and there is a need to compare and contrast the various approaches
on a regional scale and to define guidelines for best practices in the generation of these
projections,
(2) That it will be beneficial in this regard for countries in a region with common climate
concerns to share their experience, with a view to develop good practices guidelines,
(3) That, because of the large uncertainties in the climate projections, establishing good
practices in how to represent these uncertainties in downstream impacts is critical to
ensure quality and consistency,
(4) That the considerable expansion of opportunities for producing climate change projections
has led to an increased volume and accessibility of model simulations for assessing climate
change impacts, that are feeding into developing national and other adaptation plans, with
the associated risks of misuse and misinterpretation,
Noting with appreciation:
(1) That the WMO Global Review of RCOFs (September 2017, Guayaquil, Ecuador) has
recommended expansion of RCOF product portfolio to cover climate change,
(2) That WMO supported a Best Practices Workshop on Climate Change Projections and
their Applications in ASEAN Countries (20–23 March 2018, Singapore), which successfully
adapted the ASEANCOF format to facilitate discussions and agree on climate change
science issues to be addressed for the south-east Asia Region,
Decides to:
(1) Encourage regional collaboration, including through adapting the Regional Climate
Outlook Forum (RCOF) format as a means of disseminating expert consensus and
facilitating discussion among subregional groupings of Members sharing common climate
characteristics on consistent approaches in interpreting and using regional climate change
projections made available by the concerned programmes and partners including, inter
alia, the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP);
(2) Support the Commission for Climatology (CCl) initiative to identify requirements and good
practices on producing climate change projections on regional scale, including through
highly recommended functions of Regional Climate Centres (RCCs), to promote these good
practices and consistent approaches to produce, interpret and use high-resolution climate
change projections on regional and national scales;
(3) Invite the hydrological community, including the relevant subsidiary bodies of Regional
Associations and the Commission for Hydrology, as well as cryosphere community, to work
closely with CCl and WCRP to ensure that climate change impacts on water availability and
quality are well-addressed in the proposed methodology and implementation, especially
with regard to climate-proof food, energy and DRR related systems;
(4) Invite the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to be engaged with the
development of the good practices and to ensure alignment with the climate change
assessments being undertaken on the global scale;
(5) Request WCRP to facilitate access to and promote the use of high-resolution data on
climate change projections at global and regional scales, including outputs of the Coupled
Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) and Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling
Experiment (CORDEX);
(6) Urge WCRP, in collaboration with CCl, to pursue closer engagement with RCOFs and
Regional Climate Centres (RCCs), through the establishment of a joint research-to-
operations platform to address research needs for regional optimization of Climate
Services Information System (CSIS) operations;
(7) Urge RCOFs in close proximity and having common climate influences to closely align and
harmonize their operations to enable the concerned Members to derive optimized benefit
from the available regional climate change information;
(8) Request the Secretary-General to support WCRP work in the development, provision of,
and access to regional climate projections, and to support CCl work on developing good
practices on using them and on organizing corresponding joint workshops and training
activities.
Decision 10 (EC-70)
The Guide to General Service Delivery
The Executive Council decides to endorse the outline of the “Guide to General Service
Delivery” as contained in the Annex to this decision to be developed with the participation of all
technical commissions and programmes of WMO whose functions include service delivery for
consideration by Cg-18.
– Decision 39 (EC-69) states that “a General Service Delivery Guide based on the work
underway to update the “Guide to Public Weather Services Practices” and other existing
guidelines developed by WMO Programmes and technical commissions whose mandate
includes service delivery should be developed, in order to provide holistic service delivery
guidance to Members in major application areas covering weather, climate, water,
agriculture, health, marine and other areas;
– CBS Management Group (CBS-MG 2018) recommended that EC-70 endorse the draft
outline,
– With the publication of WMO-No. 1129, the WMO Strategy for Service Delivery and its
Implementation Plan, in 2014 the concept of service delivery was mainstreamed across
WMO areas of activity. Recent years have seen the considerable growth of Climate Services
as a key activity, as climate information and climate predictions become increasingly
valuable to societal planning and decision-making. With all of this in mind, EC-69 mandated
CBS to take the lead in developing a General Service Delivery Guide for WMO, collaborating
closely with the other technical commissions in doing so.
Outline of General Service Delivery Guide
1. Introduction
Building Blocks for the General Service Delivery Guide (brief description and relevance)
(a) WMO Strategy for Service Delivery and its Implementation Plan (WMO-No. 1129)
(b) Guide to PWS Practices (WMO-No. 834)
(c) Guide to practices for meteorological offices serving aviation (WMO-No. 732)
(d) Guide to Marine Meteorological Services (WMO-No. 471)
(e) Implementation Plan of the Global Framework for Climate Services
(f) Step-by-Step Guidelines for establishing a national framework for Climate Services
(WMO-No. 1206)
(g) Guide to Hydrological Practices – Volume II (WMO-No. 168)
(h) Valuing Weather and Climate: Economic Assessment of Meteorological and
Hydrological Services (WMO/World Bank/USAID)
(i) WMO Guidelines on Multi-Hazard Impact-based Forecast and Warning Services
(WMO‑No. 1150)
(j) Global Weather Enterprise – input from beyond the NMHSs
(k) Service delivery in the private sector
2. Standard setting, regulation and accreditation

Public Private Engagement (PPE)
Concept of authoritative voice within service delivery
3. Communications
Fundamentals of communication
Importance and value of good communication
Developing and fostering good communication practices
The human dimension
4. Technical Foundations
Technical expertise and excellence
Robust and resilient systems
Efficient production of services to meet user needs
5. Channels for Service Delivery

Services to be aligned with advancements in communication technologies
Services to be agile in responding to changes and developments and applications of
communication technologies
Machine to machine capabilities and their role in service delivery
6. Customers, Clients, Users and Partners

Definitions, descriptions
Importance of user engagement
Understanding user needs
Managing user expectations
7. User Feedback
Formal and informal feedback
Strategies and techniques for gathering user feedback
Employment of user feedback in devising improvements to products and services
8. Training and development
Changing and evolving role of forecasters in service delivery
Training of users and stakeholders
Training of frontline service delivery personnel
Training of service managers
Management training
9. Promotion and marketing
Perceptions of service quality
Building the trust of users and stakeholders
Delivering user satisfaction
10. Monitoring and Evaluation

Setting useful performance indicators
User-based evaluation of Service Delivery standards
Coordinated evaluation across public and private sectors in line with WMO Guidelines
11. Sector-specific aspects of service delivery
Public Weather Services
Aviation Weather Services
Marine Weather Services
Land transport Services
Agro-meteorological Services
Hydrological Services
Climate Services
Services to Emergency Management
Services to Media
Services to support emerging areas:
(a) urban and coastal areas

(b) environment/air quality
(c) sustained transport
(d) Weather/Climate and Health
(e) Energy etc.
12. Service Delivery Action Plan
13. Bibliography and Further Reading
Decision 11 (EC-70)
Concept paper on the development of common interfaces for service delivery
(1) Thanks CBS for the development of the Concept Paper on the development of Common
Interfaces for Service Delivery (CISD) as contained in the Annex to this decision;
(2) Acknowledges that as new web-based services emerge from the implementation of WIGOS,
WIS 2.0 and seamless GDPFS, that harmonization of these services to provide consistent
interfaces will likely benefit to the Global Weather Enterprise;
(3) Requests that establishment of standard interfaces (e.g. protocols or APIs) for accessing
data and services for public service delivery, as expressed in the CISD concept paper, and
gathering of the related user requirements be progressed by CBS as part of the seamless
GDPFS implementation;
(4) Further requests Members to share best practices on the development and implementation
of web-service interfaces for accessing weather and climate information;
(5) Further requests CBS collate the feedback from Members and provide guidance, and for
the Secretary-General to provide the resources necessary to support this activity.
– Decision 40 (EC-69) – CBS was tasked by EC to, in coordination with other TCs, set up
a mechanism for the development of a concept paper on common interfaces for service
delivery. CBS was asked to present the concept paper at EC-70 for consideration for
approval;
– CBS Management Group (CBS-MG 2018) recommended that EC-70 endorse the draft
Concept Paper.
– Users need to access aggregated “best possible” weather and climate information offered
in a seamless manner across geographical and political boundaries. To respond to this
need, the Common Interfaces for Service Delivery will seek to meet the requirements
of a wide variety of users and provide a technical system for gathering and aggregating
weather information from a wide variety of sources, at different levels of technical
sophistication. It is an underlying condition that Common Interfaces support the attribution
of NMHSs as providers of services, and that the principle of “no Member left behind” be
kept in view.
Concept paper for the development of common interfaces for service delivery
Introduction
The Executive Council of WMO requested that the Commission for Basic Systems develop a
Concept Note on the development of Common Interfaces for Service Delivery (CISD) “driven
by data from NMHSs and emerging sources to enable users to seamlessly access weather and
climate information in a way that would ensure attribution to NMHSs as providers of services”.
Why Common Interfaces for Service Delivery?
In today’s world of mass travel, global news, and “always on” internet access to information,
Members need users to have access to providers of high-quality weather and climate services
in a unified and consistent manner, seamless in space and time, which affirms the provenance
and authority of this information. Already some of the major global aggregators of information
provide such a seamless service of weather information, but typically this is not based on the
high-quality information available for many countries through their NMHSs.
While NMHSs, by their nature, have a national remit, the need is for a single international
one-stop service for authoritative weather and climate information; one that will combine the
high quality typically available via the separate websites of each NMHSs together with the
convenience of a seamless service of aggregated global information provided to PC, tablets
and mobile phones. There already exist examples of trans-national service delivery of NMHS
forecast and warnings information. Hong Kong China has, through the WWIS and SWIC
projects, provided a means to aggregate city forecast information and also weather warnings
from NMHSs. The GMAS project aims to extend and develop the SWIC concept towards an
integrated, map-based presentation of warnings from all NMHSs. Regionally, Belgium, The
Netherlands and Luxembourg have cooperatively produced a weather app for the Benelux
area. It is envisaged that the CISD will cooperate with, and build on, these developments to
provide a richer range of weather data to a wide range of users. This would include probabilistic
information as now available from the growing number of ensemble-based systems, and
possibly also impact information.
It will be important, in getting further advice and guidance from EC and Congress, to ensure
that the CISD concept is developed within a broader framework which encompasses GMAS,
WIS2.0 and other existing and proposed projects.
While focusing on the authoritative nature of weather and climate information available from
NMHSs, there also needs to be a recognition of the high quality of information available through
many private sector providers which can amplify and augment the information presented by
NMHSs, and in particular provide additional depth of detail relevant to specific user groups.
Thus the CISD should make provision for the merging of meteorological information provided
from a range of reputable sources, and presented in many different data formats and protocols,
and synthesise these into a unified stream of weather and climate information that can be
readily expressed and visualized on internet-connected devices. From the point of view of users,
the information presented through the CISD should conform fully to WMO standards and be
authoritative with proper attribution to the providers, be they from the public or private sectors.
In defining the scope of the CISD, the first essential task will be to collect the user needs.
Primary users will include private-sector global data aggregators such as Apple, IBM, Alibaba,
Amazon, Google and other aggregators and data platforms that will be developed, as well as
UN and other humanitarian agencies that have a global reach. The needs of these key users will
need to be ascertained, as already a significant percentage of weather information is delivered
to the public from a source other than an NMHS directly.
The task of developing a CISD is analogous, in some respects, to those tasks already carried
out in developing the WMO Integrated Global Observing System, WIGOS, and the WMO
Information System, WIS. The CISD will attempt to achieve the same global coordination, but
in the area of Service Delivery. The CISD must be built upon agreed technical protocols and
standards, but these will need to be developed in close consultation with the users if they are to
gain widespread acceptance.
In embarking on the challenge of developing the CISD, WMO must be aware of the need to
support and enhance the authoritative voice of Members in providing warnings and other
information about severe weather and its impacts, and must also keep in view the principle
that no Member be left behind. It will be a significant challenge to develop an interface that
can accept information from the wide range of technical capabilities of WMO Members and
provide a unified output which is compatible with some of the most advanced information and
communications technology on earth.
It should be clearly established also what the CISD will not attempt to do. Many NMHSs have,
in close cooperation with their users, developed technical interfaces for the delivery of products
and services to their own client base. The CISD will not attempt to replicate or improve on
these. Rather it will offer meteorological service providers a new route to provide their products
and services, in common with products and services from other providers, to an international
user-base. It will be important to ensure that technological imbalances between Members
are not a barrier to the full engagement of all NMHSs with the CISD as a platform for their
products.
The interface, which is envisaged as the CISD, must meet the need for interoperability in
the digital world. Meteorological services provided via image and text from nationally-based
websites no longer meet the requirements of smooth and seamless operation of a world which
has entered the digital age. Standard protocols will be required to provide this interoperability
between meteorological services and other information communication systems in the digital
world.
This introduces the concept of a Common Interface for Service Delivery (CISD); a technical
underpinning for the establishment and growth of the Global Weather Enterprise (GWE),
providing a mechanism for the delivery of products and services from different elements within
the GWE in a unified and streamlined manner.
Purpose of CISD
(a) Open Service Delivery system designed for seamless availability of and accessibility to data
and products for users, particularly in partnership with the private sector.
(b) Establishment of a widely accepted standard interface (protocol) for access to data and
products for public service delivery, including impact-based information;
(c) Establishment of a mechanism to link user requirements to the meteorological service

providers who are registered with the CISD.
(d) Establishment of a one-stop-shop service of PWS products from WMO members and
partners, including private sectors.
Figure 1. More than 100 NWP models/model members are available for each
location in earth. How can these be rationalized into one service?
Definitions
Protocol: First, the CISD will act as a WMO-defined unified protocol, which will aim to be
widely accepted by industry and by UN affiliated organizations, and which will include existing
standards such as Common Alerting Protocol (CAP), to facilitate the provision of meteorological
information services.
Proxy: The CISD will act as a WMO proxy to aggregate and release world-wide weather
information from either official NMHS (alert and warnings, high impact weather forecasts and
regular forecasts) or private sectors (high impact weather and regular forecasts) with source
labelling. Proxy here also means partnership between WMO members and other sectors.
Provider: The CISD will act as a WMO service provider, ideally delivering the “best” or
“optimum” forecast based on the verification and assessment of products from diverse sources,
except for weather alerts and warnings which will solely come from NMHSs.
Users of CISD
(a) WMO Members who receive global met-services and contribute to CISD;
(b) Other meteorological service providers who will receive authoritative products from CISD
and contribute their own by service linkage following CISD standards;
(c) UN-affiliated organizations which need aggregated, authoritative weather and climate
information;
(d) Governmental, inter-governmental and non-governmental organizations active in

international humanitarian relief and disaster risk reduction;
(e) Certified/registered sectors or data aggregators like Google / Facebook;
(f) Other organization or individuals; CISD should be a facility for many levels of user, with
different levels of access possible according to need and to considerations of data policy,
among others.
Relationships between CISD and other CBS Projects
The CISD will not itself generate products but will act as a channel through which services can
be delivered, or alternatively, direct user requests to appropriate product services. So, existing
on-line resources such as GDACS/GMAS/WWIS/SWIC can become important inputs for
CISD.
WIS 2.0 is a cloud-based information infrastructure and data-exchange platform, which can
support the future WMO based functionality of CISD. The relationship between WIS and CISD
will be analogous to that between an OS (operating system) and applications. Besides, WIS 2.0
cannot host everything, especially content from private sector providers. The concepts and
standards underlying the CISD could also be implemented in other public cloud-based systems
such as the Amazon cloud, Google cloud, Alibaba Cloud etc.
Principles in the Implementation of a Common Interface for Service Delivery
NMHS-first and mutual benefits: The CISD will support the authoritative voice of NMHSs and
leave no member behind. The CISD will also monitor and measure the products being used, and
product providers/owners can decide whether or not to charge for the usage of the products
originating with them. This means that CISD is first and foremost a standard of platform, which
can be implemented upon WMO/WIS 2.0, or by other sectors.
Cloud based: The CISD will operate as an online service which will be based on WMO
Information System (WIS 2.0) – a cloud infrastructure to handle massive concurrent data
access.
De-centralized: The CISD will be connected to nodes on the WIS (WMC, RSMC, NMHS) and
to private sectors via the internet. But the CISD will not aim for long-term storage of products
from diverse sources, but will cache them for real time access, and for the greater efficiency of
the data service.
Integrated: Alerts and warnings from NMHSs will go directly via the CISD to enhance the
authoritative voice of the NMHSs of WMO Member. Other meteorological service provider
information will be carried on the CISD with the source-label provided for user choice. With
the help of Seamless GDPFS common platform, products (other than alerts and warnings) can
be evaluated and integrated as “best” or “optimum” products, before being distributed via the
CISD.
User oriented: A thorough investigation of user needs, user application and user scenarios
will be essential if the CISD is to be widely accepted. The CISD should have a user-friendly Web
application UI to facilitate location-based and on-demand meteorological services. The CISD
should also include a set of APIs to assist with the collection of user feedback. This means
that CISD registered users will have more privileges in getting access to more valuable data,
products and feedback than ordinary visitors.
Components
Implementation of CISD will be through an alliance of internet nodes that follow the protocols
and standards of CISD; the WMO node will be a starting point based on the architecture and
cloud infrastructure of WIS2.0. (Figure 3)
(1) WMO CISD Node:
(a) Common Interface Service: linked to the services of NMHS (Web service), GDPFS
centres (GDPFS common platform), WMO projects (e.g. MHEWS), and other sectors,
supplying data and products through online interface to users. Other online products
could also be registered as one service of WMO Common Interface.
(b) WEBGIS UI: Based on backend service, a WEBGIS system established to facilitate
exploration and online analysis (temporal and spatial analysis) of WMO-organized
PWSD products such as Impact-Based Forecasts, GMAS warning etc. WEBGIS UI could
be a support tool for decision makers in United Nation affiliated organizations.
Figure 2. WEBGIS for exploration of PWSD products
(c) Cache data: WMO node doesn’t keepa long-term storage, but caches products for
efficiency of delivery.
(d) Registration: Products from other sectors who want to join the alliance will need to
register and provide the relevant metadata relating to their services and products.
(2) Other CISD Nodes:
Encourage other sectors to join the CISD alliance.
(a) Common Interfaces for Service Delivery: strictly follow the standard of WMO common
interface protocol;
(b) Entity data centre (optional)

WEBGIS UI (optional) Challenges of a Common Interface
(a) The first challenge is to solve the authoritative voice issue. Not to jeopardize but enhance
the authority of NMHSs while facilitating private sector service provision through the CISD.
The formalizing of the concept of the “Authoritative Voice” and its wide acceptance will be
an essential pre-requisite to the operational establishment of the CISD.
(b) Not all Members will have the technical capacity to provide products following the CISD
standards. Therefore, improving the technical capacity in providing products and services
through digital means, and developing an agreement among NMHSs on the use of standard
protocols, will be another challenge.
(c) It will be important to work closely with international industry associations and smart
phone (wear) manufacturers to ensure their acceptance of CISD standards and protocols,
and promotion of weather and climate information provided via the CISD.
(d) Workshops and Pilot/demonstration project will certainly be needed to fully test the CISD
concept at various stages in its development.
Figure 3. Conceptual Diagram for Common Interface
Roles of WMO members, data aggregators and private sectors in CISD could be both users and
contributors of the CISD.
Decision 12 (EC-70)
Symposium to collect Members experiences with Impact-based Forecast and Warning

Services
The Executive Council decides to approve the organization of a symposium in 2019 for
Members to exchange experiences in Impact Based Forecast and Warning Services (IBFWS)
and to collect Members’ experiences with IBFWS. It further requests the Secretary-General to
provide the necessary support for the Symposium and Members to contribute resources.
– Recommendation of the CBS Management Group (CBS-MG);
– Decision 4 (EC-69) to put significant emphasis on the training needs associated with
the implementation of impact-based forecast and warning services, and requested the
Secretary-General to facilitate resource mobilization in support of such training initiatives;
– It is proposed to organize a conference/symposium on IBFWS in late 2019. This event

would be focused on gathering the experiences of Members who have developed impact-
based forecast and warning services, together with the experiences of their users, with a
view to collecting examples of best practice and publishing these as an adjunct to WMO-
No. 1150. The event would be funded mainly from extrabudgetary sources.
Decision 13 (EC-70)
Review plan for the Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume III
The Executive Council decides to endorse the timetable for the review of the Technical
Regulation Volume III – Hydrology (WMO-No. 49) adopted by the CHy Technical Regulations
Review Task Team as compliant with Decision 93 (EC-68) – Roadmap to an Enhanced
Framework for WMO Technical Regulations and to further encourage CHy to pursue its work of
revision and harmonization of the regulatory material of its competence, also by pursuing its
cooperation with CIMO, CBS and other international standardization institutions such as ISO.
Decision justification: CHy-15 decided to engage in the review and update of the
Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume III and related regulatory publications relevant
to its mandate and responsibility. A task team of experts has been established to review and
assess the regulatory material, establish a detailed plan for updating it and prepare a revised
text of the Technical Regulations, Volume III. The team will also consider the benefits and risks
of aligning the hierarchy and naming of CHy regulatory material with WMO general practice.
Pursuing the decision taken by the ISO/TC 113 – Hydrometry in Noida (India) in

September 2017, WMO and ISO have set up a Working Group to review the WMO Manual on
Stream Gauging with a view to making it suitable also as an ISO TR (Technical Report). WMO
is also regularly providing inputs on the development of new standards by ISO in the area of
hydrometry, in order to maintain them consistent with WMO regulatory material and provide to
Members a coherent regulatory framework.
The task team of experts adopted the following timetable for its review work:
– End April 2018: First draft consolidating members’ contribution on proposed modifications
to Technical Regulation Volume III
– Mid-June 2018: Review by Task Team members of the consolidated document with special
focus on mandatory vs non mandatory provisions (shall vs. should).
– End August 2018: Task Team members provide draft inputs on parts where wording
revision was suggested, carry out a review of the Annexes and identify other regulatory
material documents to review
– End September 2018: Second consolidated draft including revised texts.
– End-October 2018: Task Team meeting to adopt a final draft of the amended Technical
Regulation Volume III (excluding Annexes) and agree on timetable and deadlines for
finalizing the overall review of the regulatory material by the time of Cg-18 in light of the
findings of its work.
Decision 14 (EC-70)
Establishment of Regional WMO Integrated Global Observing System Centres
(1) Request all Regional Association Management Groups and its Panel of Experts on Polar and
High Mountain Observations, Research and Services (EC-PHORS) to strongly support the
establishment of Regional WIGOS Centres (RWCs) in pilot mode in their respective Region
and the Antarctic and take appropriate actions;
(2) Request Members to actively participate in the implementation of RWCs in their Region, in
collaboration with other RWCs where applicable;
(3) Request the Secretary-General to provide all the necessary assistance and Secretariat
support for the establishment of RWCs in the WMO.
Resolution 2 (EC-68) Plan for the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) pre-
operational phase 2016–2019; Decision 30 (EC-68) Regional WMO Integrated Global Observing
System Centres; Decision 30 (EC-69) Guidance on establishing Regional WMO Integrated Global
Observing System Centres in pilot phase.
The development, implementation and operational activities of the WIGOS Data Quality
Monitoring System, primarily regional WIGOS performance monitoring and incident
management, and support to Members in improving the data availability and quality, strongly
depend on the establishment of Regional WIGOS Centres (RWCs), to be initiated in pilot mode
from 2018. Details on the activities to be undertaken by RWCs are provided in “Technical
Guidelines for Regional WIGOS Centres on the WIGOS Data Quality Monitoring System for
surface-based stations of GOS” (See http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/wigos/tools.html for
more information).
A successful RWC pilot has been established in Regional Association VI via the EUCOS
Observing Monitoring Facility (currently located at DWD in Offenbach) operated under the
EUMETNET Observation Programme Management. This pilot has the responsibility for operating
an automated web-based Quality Monitoring Portal that displays data quality monitoring
statistics for the EUMETNET members, accessible for all RA VI Members.
China and Japan submitted their formal proposals to the RA II President and the proposals
have been endorsed by RA II Management Group; Belarus and the Russian Federation have
expressed interest in operating an RWC pilot for parts of Regions VI and II; likewise, in RA V,
Australia, Indonesia, Fiji and Singapore have also expressed their interest on hosting RWC;
Trinidad and Tobago is considering taking on the main operational role of RWC for the English-
speaking countries in RA IV, tentatively in collaboration with the Caribbean Meteorological
Organization.
Decision 15 (EC-70)
WMO Integrated Global Observing System station identifiers
(1) To update the provisions on WIGOS Station Identifiers (WSI) in the Manual on WIGOS
(WMO-No. 1160), section 2, to clarify the circumstances and the process under which the
Secretary-General will issue WSIs as outlined in Annex 1 to this decision;
(2) To endorse a draft WSI transition plan as presented in Annex 2 to this decision.
Procedure to allow Secretary‑General to issue a WIGOS Station Identifier
The Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1160) specifies the
procedures for the assignment of WIGOS Station Identifiers (WSI); the Guide to the WMO
Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1165) provides further guidance. Members
are requested to follow these procedures for all observing stations/platforms under their
responsibility, including those owned and/or operated by partner organizations. Currently there
are several cases of approved observing stations operating under observing programs and
initiatives that in turn are approved by the WMO Congress (e.g. GAW, GCOS, GCW) not being
able to obtain a WSI due to a lack of response from the PR.
CBS-TECO-2018 and the CBS Management Group considered the draft presented in the Annex 1
to this decision and recommended that it be reflected in the amendment of the Manual on the
WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1160).
There is the critical dependency of the WIGOS on accurate and robust location metadata.
Further, several Members raised their concern regarding the potential impact on software used
in operational systems for the collection and processing of observational data.
WSI Transition Plan
Transition to operational use of the new WIGOS Station Identifiers is a complex process that
requires careful planning and involvement of representatives from both providers and users of
observations; detailed guidance for Members is also needed.
CBS-TECO-2018 and the CBS Management Group considered the draft presented in the Annex 2
to this decision and recommended its endorsement.
WIGOS Station Identifiers (WSI)
I. PROCEDURE FOR A STATION OPERATOR TO APPLY FOR A WIGOS STATION

IDENTIFIER
This document is intended to guide the operator of an observing facility through the process of
assigning a WIGOS station identifier for that facility. It also applies to users running data rescue
activities that need to allocate a WIGOS station identifier for an observing facility for which they
have discovered data (for the purposes of this document they are “operating” the facility).
1. Verify that a WIGOS station identifier is needed
1.1 Check that the observing facility has not already been allocated a WIGOS station
identifier.
1.1.1 If the observing facility has previously delivered observations under a WMO or co-
sponsored programme for which it had been issued a traditional station identifier, then it will
automatically have been assigned a WIGOS station identifier derived from the earlier identifier.
1.1.2 Check for observing facilities already recorded in OSCAR/surface that are close to the
position of the facility for which a WIGOS station identifier is being sought (https://oscar.wmo
.int/surface) to see whether the facility already has a WIGOS station identifier.
2. Provide evidence that the observing facility meets the requirements to be

allocated a WIGOS station identifier
2.1 The authority that issues the WIGOS station identifier will require evidence of the
following:
2.1.1 That the operator of the observing facility commits to providing and maintaining
WIGOS metadata for that facility;
2.1.2 That the observing facility is being operated to conform with the Technical Regulations
relevant to the programme supported by the observations from that facility;
2.1.3 That observations from that facility are intended to be shared in support of a WMO
or co-sponsored programme (even if the programme has not confirmed participation of that
facility);
The Manual on WIGOS requires the operators of observing facilities that are allocated WIGOS
station identifiers to commit to providing and maintaining WIGOS metadata for that facility and
to operating the facility so that it conforms to the WMO Technical Regulations. Evidence of that
commitment will be needed by the authority for issuing the WIGOS station identifier.
3. Apply for a WIGOS station identifier
3.1 Contact the OSCAR/surface focal point for the country within which the observing
facility lies (or, for a mobile station, in which the operator of the station is registered) asking
that a WIGOS station identifier is allocated to the facility. The focal point will explain the
information needed by their national process for allocating a WIGOS station identifier.
3.1.1 When the WIGOS station identifier is issued, the operator of the observing facility
will be told by the OSCAR/surface focal point how to maintain the WIGOS metadata for that
observing facility (this could be a national notification process or entering the information
directly into OSCAR/surface).
3.2 If the country does not have a focal point for OSCAR/surface listed at https://www
.wmo.int/cpdb/workgroups/view/cbs_ FP_OSCAR-surface, contact the WMO secretariat (wigos
-help@wmo.int) who will pass the application to the relevant Permanent Representative directly.
3.3 If the observing facility does not lie within the boundaries of a WMO Member and the
operator of that facility is not subject to the jurisdiction of a WMO Member, then the application
should be passed directly to the Secretary-General (wigos-help@wmo.int).
4. Invoking the escalation procedure
4.1 The OSCAR/surface focal point should arrange for a WIGOS station identifier to
be allocated within a reasonable time. Before escalating, the user should attempt to contact
the OSCAR/surface focal point to confirm that the application has been received and is being
responded to. If no response is received within two months, the user may wish to start the
escalation procedure.
4.2 If the OSCAR/surface focal point does not issue a WIGOS station identifier and
the user considers that the reason given is not appropriate, the user may wish to start the
escalation procedure.
II. PROCEDURE FOR THE SECRETARY‑GENERAL TO ISSUE A WIGOS STATION

IDENTIFIER
This procedure is intended to be used in circumstances where it is necessary to record

metadata about an observing facility but no Member considers themselves to be in a position to
issue a WIGOS station identifier for that facility.
1. Invoking the procedure
1.1 This procedure is invoked when the operator of an observing facility or a contributor
to the data rescue activities of the Commission for Climatology applies to the Secretary-General
for a WIGOS station identifier.
2. Validating the application
2.1 The secretariat confirms with the organization requesting the WIGOS station identifier
that:
2.1.1 The organization has contacted the OSCAR/surface focal point for the country in
whose borders the observing facility lies and that no WIGOS station identifier has been issued,
and that there was not a valid reason for refusing to issue a WIGOS station identifier;
2.1.2 The organization is committed to creating and maintaining the metadata for the
observing facility in OSCAR/surface to an extent that is appropriate for the observing facility
(there is a lower expectation of complete metadata for observing facilities that no longer exist);
2.1.3 The observing facility (if it still exists) will be operated to the standards required in the
Technical Regulations for the programme(s) to which it contributes;
2.1.4 Observations from the observing facility are intended to be shared with other
organizations.
2.2 The secretariat confirms that the observing facility is not already recorded in OSCAR/
surface. If it is, the applying organization should be informed of this and the procedure
terminated.
2.3 The secretariat confirms with the OSCAR/surface focal point for the country within
whose boundaries the observing facility is located that the application for a WIGOS station
identifier was received and that the outcome was as described by the applicant.
2.3.1 If the application was not received, or the outcome was not as described by the
applicant, the secretariat will facilitate communications between the applicant and the OSCAR/
surface focal point.
2.4 If the observing facility is not located within the territory of any Member, the
Secretary-General issues a WIGOS station identifier using the “issuer of identifier” allocated to
the Secretary-General and the procedure is terminated.
3. Escalation of the application
3.1 If no WIGOS station identifier has been issued and no valid reason for not issuing a
WIGOS station identifier has been provided by the OSCAR/surface focal point within 30 days
from the date the secretariat contacted the OSCAR/surface focal point, the application will be
escalated.
3.1.2 Observing Facility contribution approved by a Constituent Body.
3.1.2 In the case that the observing facility has been officially recognized by the governance
mechanism of an approved WMO or WMO co-sponsored programme, the Director of WMO
responsible for WIGOS activities will provisionally allocate a WIGOS Station Identifier using
either the issuer of identifier for the programme (if the station has already been assigned an
identifier for that programme) or that allocated to the Secretary-General, and at the same time
in writing inform the PR of the country or territory where the observing facility is located of this
step, giving him or her 30 days to formally object to this decision.
3.1.3 Observing Facility contribution not yet approved by a Constituent Body.
3.1.3.1 If the observing facility has not yet been approved by a constituent body as
contributing to a WMO or co-sponsored programme, the Director of WMO responsible for
WIGOS activities writes formally to the Permanent Representative of the country within
whose territory the observing facility is located. Normally a period of 30 days will be given for
the Permanent Representative to respond by either issuing a WIGOS station identifier or by
providing a valid reason for not doing so.
3.1.3.2 If within the specified period the Permanent Representative does not issue a WIGOS
station identifier, or does not provide a valid reason for not issuing one, the Secretary-General
will issue a WIGOS station identifier using the “issuer of identifier” allocated to the Secretary-
General, and at the same time in writing inform the PR of the country or territory where the
observing facility is located of this step, giving him or her 30 days to formally object to this
decision.
4. Identification of observing facilities whose metadata have been recovered

through data rescue activities
4.1 Metadata for observing facilities identified through data rescue activities are likely to
be less reliable than for facilities that continue to operate. OSCAR/surface metadata records
that are maintained by organizations performing data rescue activities, rather than by the
operator of the station, should be identified by associating them with the “Data rescue”
programme. Should the responsibility for maintaining the metadata subsequently pass to the
organization (or its successor) that originally operated the facility, then the association with the
“Data rescue” programme should be removed.
WSI Transition Plan
1. Background
The overall concept and the actual structure of the WIGOS Station Identifiers (WSI) were
approved by the Seventeenth World Meteorological Congress (Cg-17) (2015) as part of the
WIGOS regulatory material, Technical Regulations, Volume I, Part I – WIGOS, (WMO-No. 49)
and Manual on WIGOS, (WMO-No. 1160). The initial Guide to WIGOS also contains WSI related
material.
During 2017 the efforts to implement the WSIs, included training on the structure and on the
procedures to assign WSIs, e.g. in the context of OSCAR/Surface training events for Members
at regional level (Offenbach, Germany, May 2017; Lima, Peru, September 2017) several
concerns were raised by participants about the implementation and operational use of WSI, and
additional guidance on this issue was requested.
At the same time similar concerns about the potential impact on software used in operational
systems that collect and process observational data were raised by several global NWP centres,
in part triggered by the development activities of the WIGOS Data Quality Monitoring System
(WDQMS).
In parallel, discussions have been ongoing within structures such as EUMETNET, GAW, JCOMM,
trying to find the best approaches for the assignment and for the implementation of the WSIs,
specially for the stations operated by non-Met Services organizations.
Finally, it should be mentioned that there is a strong relation between the implementation of the
WSIs and the BUFR migration process – the TAC reports are not compatible with the new WSIs.
2. Objectives
From the concerns listed in Section A. above, the need for careful planning and detailed
guidance emerges very clearly. The issue was discussed at ICG-WIGOS-7, where it was agreed
to establish a specific Task Team to take responsibility for developing a transition plan for WSIs
(TT-WSI).
So, the objective of this (draft) plan is to identify the necessary steps to ensure that all the
parties involved, NWP and World Data centres, as well as Members and partner organizations,
are ready to move to WSIs before the final transition to using them in operations in order to
avoid/limit any negative impacts, e.g. in the form of data loss.
The key contents of a transition plan for introduction of WSI have been identified under the four
following themes, and endorsed by ICG-WIGOS:
(a) Identification of issues to be addressed by Members,
(b) Advice and tools for members to address issues,
(c) Testing environment,
(d) Resolving issues with exchange of information.
3. Timescale
Taking into account that the WIGOS Pre-operational Phase is planned to run until the end of
2019, ideally, the timescale for the transition plan of WSIs should be from “now” (i.e. to start
immediately, or as soon as possible during the first quarter of 2018), until the end of 2019,
i.e. approximately two years before the WIGOS operational phase begins in 2020.
The calendar of the transition plan should be aligned with the above-mentioned four themes,
according to the following generic schedule:
Second quarter 2018:
(a) identify high priority issues (tranche 1) to be addressed;
(b) Implement procedure for resolving issues with exchange of information (use the TT-
UABUFR recommendations);
Third quarter 2018:
(a) develop advice and tools for Members to address the high priority (tranche 1) issues;
(b) identify next level of priority issues (tranche 2) to be addressed;
Fourth quarter 2018:
(a) Implement testing environment for tranche 1 issues;
(b) develop advice and tools for Members to address the tranche 2 issues;
(c) identify next level of priority issues (tranche 3) to be addressed;
First quarter 2019:
(a) Implement testing environment for tranche 2 issues;
(b) develop advice and tools for Members to address the tranche 3 issues;
(c) identify next level of priority issues (tranche 4) to be addressed;
(d) Monitor implementation of solutions to tranche 1 issues and amend solutions if needed;
Second quarter 2019
Follow the above pattern.
4. Approach
The topics and sub-topics under each theme are presented in detail here below:
4.1 Identification of issues to be addressed by Members
Management procedures
(a) Delegating authority to issue identifiers
(b) Ensuring OSCAR/surface maintained
(c) Internal procedures to decide on identifiers and to make sure that identifiers are unique
Observing systems
(a) Update software in systems that generate observation reports for external delivery to use
the WIGOS station identifier
(b) Update software (including databases) that collects observation information in internal
(proprietary) formats and distributes them to the external community.
(c) Decide on the WIGOS station identifier that will be used for each class of report from that
station (for example, synoptic reports might use a different WIGOS identifier from GAW
reports to assist other users with their migration)
Data repositories
(a) Ensure that the repository can store WIGOS station identifiers as (one of) the identifiers
for the station
(b) Determine and implement methods of accepting reports that include any combination of
WIGOS and traditional station identifiers
(c) Determine and implement methods to extracting observations from the repository in a
format that allows them to be used in downstream processing.
(d) Determine and implement methods to ensure that all reports from the same station
are identified as such even if the reports themselves contain different WIGOS station
identifiers.
Application software
(a) Determine and implement how observations that do not have traditional station identifiers
will be handled in the application.
(b) Ensure that applications can process observations received by the organization in BUFR.
(c) Determine and implement methods to ensure that all reports from the same station
are identified as such even if the reports themselves contain different WIGOS station
identifiers.
4.2 Advice and tools for members to address issues
Central repository for advice that can be referred to in all communications
Collect examples of how centres are handling WIGOS station identifiers with legacy systems
With links to offered software
Involve HMEI members
Briefing workshop for HMEI members on the issues
OSCAR/surface tool to allow all WIGOS station identifiers associated with a station to be
downloaded (for a single station or a list of stations)
OSCAR/Surface tool to provide assistance in generating a WIGOS ID for a new station
Central guidance on how to decide which WIGOS station identifier in which type of report, e.g.:
(a) For existing stations – the WIGOS station ID corresponding to the traditional station for
that type of report;
(b) For new stations – only assign a single WIGOS station identifier (if not possible, assign the
minimum number of identifiers that is possible):
– If an external programme or body (such as ICAO) requires a traditional alphanumeric

code to be used for reports, use the WIGOS station identifier associated with that
code form (for example, an new airport would use a WIGOS identifier of the form
0-20006-0-abcd);
– If there are no external constraints, use a WIGOS station identifier in the range
delegated to the operating country.
(c) Any time table over which reports will converge to using a single identifier (this depends
on migration of all systems to using reporting formats that are capable of recording the
WIGOS station identifier explicitly).
4.3 Testing environment
Sample reports in BUFR with different combinations of traditional and WIGOS station identifiers
(including reports that will highlight incorrect assumptions in the processing)
4.4 Resolving issues with exchange of information
Mechanisms for users to report and resolve problems with:
(a) WIGOS station identifiers recorded in observation reports;
(b) Inconsistencies between information in reports from a station and that in OSCAR/surface
for that station, including:
– Use of the wrong WIGOS station identifier;
– Incorrect report contents;
– Incorrect OSCAR/surface contents;
– WIGOS station identifier not in OSCAR/surface.
(c) Inability to obtain a WIGOS station identifier to associate with an observation report.
5. Tasks, Activities and Responsibilities
The TT-WSI will review the lists of themes and topics and will develop accordingly a detailed
work-programme with the necessary tasks and activities to address each of the topics/subtopics
of this transition plan; these may include surveys, workshops, visits and TT-WSI sessions.
The support from the Secretariat includes initially the following units of the Observing and
Information Systems Department:
(a) WIS Branch
(b) WIGOS Project Office;
(c) Other departments/divisions to be identified as needed;
6. Communication & outreach
The communications and outreach activities will be developed by the Secretariat in collaboration
with the Chair TT-WSI, using the available WIGOS and WIS tools, such as Webpages, WIKI
pages, the WIGOS Newsletter and the WWW Operational Information Service (OIS) newsletter.
7. Project Management and Risks
A Web-based project management application will be used to manage and to keep track of the
activities of this transition plan.
The risks are mostly related to non/inappropriate use of the “project management” tools, for
example if not updating and sharing the progress and/or any unexpected issues/delays, and
also to non-adherence to the plan, due to ad-hoc decision making.
Decision 16 (EC-70)
Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review Tool/Surface user interface
(1) Endorse the development of the OSCAR/Surface user interface in all WMO languages and
requests Secretary-General to allocate the resources required;
(2) Urge Members to provide financial resources to the WIGOS Trust Fund for the translation of
the OSCAR/Surface user interface into other WMO languages.
Availability of OSCAR/Surface in all WMO languages is essential for the operational uptake
among all Members of this critical WIGOS tool.
OSCAR/Surface is the key source of information about all observing systems and platform, and
is being populated and updated with required WIGOS metadata for those observations that are
exchanged internationally.
At WIGOS workshops, training events and other meeting events, recurring requests were made
regarding: (i) the user interface of OSCAR/Surface to be made available in all WMO languages;
(ii) hands-on training in OSCAR/Surface provided in the WMO language(s) most relevant in
the particular Region; (iii) development of e-learning tools in all WMO language(s), and (iv) the
development of a stand-alone version of OSCAR that can be installed nationally in order to
facilitate management of station information at the national level.
Decision 17 (EC-70)
Review plan for the Manual on the WMO Information System (WMO-No. 1060) and the
Guide to the WMO Information System (WMO-No. 1061)
The Executive Council requests the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) to complete
development of the amendments to technical regulations as listed in the Annex to this decision
and to consult with Members in preparation for their recommendation to eighteenth World
Meteorological Congress (Cg-18), and decides to include those amendments on the agenda of
Cg-18.
See the Annex to the present decision.
Decision justification: CBS Management Group, following discussion at the 2018 Technical
Conference of the CBS, recommended that these amendments be discussed by Cg-18.
Review plan for the Manual on the WMO Information System (WMO-No.
1060) and the Guide to the WMO Information System (WMO-No. 1061)
The topics to be included on the agenda for Cg-18 shall include:
1. Amendments to WMO-No. 1060 Manual on the WMO Information System and

WMO-No. 1061 Guide to the WMO Information System concerning:
(a) A generic on-site audit process that could be applied to the audit of specialist
centres of any WMO programme against the requirements of that
programme as described the CBS TECO 2018 document
CBS-TECO-2018-Doc-5(3)-Annex1-Audit_draft1;
(b) Management of risks to the WMO Information System of cybersecurity

incidents through the introduction of a procedure for responding to
cybersecurity incidents as described in the CBS TECO 2018 document
CBS-TECO-2018-Doc-5(3)-Annex2-SecurityProcedure_draft1;
(c) Operational monitoring of the WIS infrastructure as a “GISC watch” that

would be implemented as described in issue 5(3)/4 of CBS TECO 2018
document CBS-TECO-2018-Doc-5(3)-WIS-Operations_draft1;
(d) Escalation procedures to resolve operational issues that cannot be decided

by mutual agreement between the parties involved as described in issue
5(3)/5 of CBS TECO 2018 document
CBS-TECO-2018-Doc-5(3)-WIS-Operations_draft1;
(e) Coordination of GISC activities as described in issue 5(3)/3 of CBS TECO

2018 document CBS-TECO-2018-Doc-5(3)-WIS-Operations_draft1;
(f) Introduction of standards and guidance on information management for

centres supporting WMO programmes (“WIS Part C”) as described in the CBS
TECO 2018 information paper
CBS-TECO-2018-Inf-5(4)-WIS-Information-Management;
(g) Introduction of standards and guidance on operation of information and

communications technology in support of the activities of WMO programmes
as described in the CBS TECO 2018 information paper
CBS-TECO-2018-Inf-5(2)-WIS-ICT-Operations_draft1;
(h) Plan for removing WMO-No. 386 Manual on the Global Telecommunication
System and transferring any of its content that remain necessary to
WMO-No. 1060 Manual on the WMO Information System or WMO-No. 1061
Guide to the WMO Information System.
2. Amendments to WMO-No. 306 Manual on Codes Volume I.3 Part D –

Representations derived from data models to implement the XML representation of
WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) metadata including substantial
improvements on the draft in Decision 8 (CBS-16).
Decision 18 (EC-70)
WMO Information System 2.0 implementation approach
The Executive Council noting the WMO Information System 2.0 Strategy, endorsed by
Resolution 8 (EC-69) and the Draft WMO Information System 2.0 implementation approach as
described in the document presented to the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) Technical
Conference (TECO) 2018 (CBS‑TECO‑2018‑Inf‑5(1)‑WIS2‑Implentation‑approach_draft1),
Noting further that CBS Management Group recommended EC-70 consideration for referral to
Congress,
Requests the CBS:
(1) To consult with Members on amendments needed to further develop the Strategy and
Implementation Approach and specific design requirements;
(2) To provide Congress with the updated Strategy and Implementation Approach and a plan
to document specific design requirements;
(3) To provide more information to Members about the technical infrastructure supporting WIS
2.0 and a comparison of the functional architectures for the original WIS and WIS 2.0;
Encourages Members to provide feedback to CBS on amendments needed to further develop

the Strategy and Implementation Approach;
Agrees to consider the status of WIS 2.0 at Cg-18 with a view toward implementation and;
Decides to request from Congress to authorize EC to make a decision on implementation once

the updated documents, including design requirements, are submitted by CBS.
Decision justification: CBS Management Group, following discussion at the CBS TECO
2018, recommended that WIS 2.0 be discussed by Cg-18.
Decision 19 (EC-70)
Mechanisms for provision of shared services
The Executive Council noting that the Secretariat should only coordinate and not operate
operational systems,
Further noting the potential requirement for procurement and contract management by the
Secretary‑General of services for shared use by Members and partner organizations,
Requests the Secretary-General to explore the financial and regulatory mechanisms for
provision of such services and report to Congress.
Decision justification: The strategies for WIGOS, WIS and the DPFS are built on an
expectation of increased sharing of service provision by Members. The experience of WIS
in the provision of the Main Telecommunication Network using a commercial provider of
telecommunication system is that requiring Members and partner organizations each to enter
into a contractual relationship with the provider is not possible because of differing national
constraints. The Commission for Basic Systems has proposed an approach in which the
Secretary-General procures a service, to be funded by Members and partner organizations, the

contract for which is managed by the Secretary-General, but the service is used and monitored
by Members and partner organizations.
Decision 20 (EC-70)
Pilot project for the exchange of information and metadata between Global
Information System Centres
The Executive Council noting the work of the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) in the
development and prototyping of a clearing house for the rapid exchange of information and
discovery metadata between Members operating Global Information System Centres (GISCs),
Noting further that a pilot capability will be hosted and managed by a Member or partner
organization,
Requests all Members operating GISCs to participate in this pilot project;
Requests the Secretary-General to explore financial mechanisms for the establishment and
long-term provision of such a shared service in the future.
Decision justification: The three-year pilot providing a clearing house for the exchange of
information and discovery metadata between GISCs is expected to deliver the following direct
benefits to members operating GISCs:
– Reduction in the number of telecommunication connections that need to be operated by
each GISC;
– Transfer of information between GISCs in situations where direct telecommunication
connections are physically or politically difficult;
– Ability to scale the technology to match the level of demand;
– Reduction in the end-to-end delivery times of high priority warning messages.
Lessons learned from this pilot will be used when procuring a longer-term operational service.
WIS 2.0 (Decision 18 (EC-70) would rely on systems that are shared between Members and
make extensive use of cloud technologies. Cloud technologies themselves are commonplace in
the IT market and are used by an increasing number of Members for their internal operations.
WIS 2.0, however, would require those technologies to be applied in situations where the
costs and operational management of the services need to be shared between Members with
differing national constraints on procurement and information technology policies. In addition
to its operational benefits, phase I of the cache in the cloud project aims to demonstrate
the technical, financial and procurement practicality of operational use of cloud services that
are shared by Members. This project was discussed by the 2018 Technical Conference of the
Commission for Basic Systems (CBS), and endorsed by the CBS Management Group at its
meeting on 29 March 2018. Additional background material is provided in the report of the CBS
Expert Team on Communication Techniques and Systems on the topic.
Decision 21 (EC-70)
Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Ocean Data and

Information System
The Executive Council decides to endorse Recommendation 2 (JCOMM-5) –

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Ocean Data and Information System
(ODIS) (on assisting the development of the ODIS concept paper) and requests CBS to work
with JCOMM (through the Intercommission Task Team on WIS (ITT‑WIS)) to ensure that the
development of WIS 2.0 will complement the development of ODIS.
Decision justification: Recommendation 2 (JCOMM-5).
Decision 22 (EC-70)
Ocean data standards and best practices
The Executive Council decides to endorse Recommendation 3 (JCOMM-5) on Ocean data

standards and best practices;
The Executive Council requests JCOMM to collaborate with the IOC of UNESCO International
Ocean Data and Information Exchange Committee (IODE) to facilitate the submission and
review of standards to the Ocean Data Standards and Best Practices project, and submission
of best practice documents to the IODE Ocean Best Practices repository and the WIGOS
Information Resource (WIR).
Decision justification: Recommendation 3 (JCOMM-5).
Decision 23 (EC-70)
Establishment of Data Acquisition Centres, Global Data Assembly Centres and Centres
for Marine Meteorological and Oceanographic Climate Data within the new Marine
Climate Data System
The Executive Council decides to approve Recommendation 4 (JCOMM-5) – Establishment of

Data Acquisition Centres (DACs), Global Data Assembly Centres (GDACs) and Centres for Marine
Meteorological and Oceanographic Climate Data (CMOCs) within the new Marine Climate Data
System (MCDS);
The Executive Council decides, subject to a parallel approval by the fifty-first session of the
IOC Executive Council, to establish:
(1) The World Ocean Database (WOD) of NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information
(NOAA-NCEI) to operate as CMOC under MCDS;
(2) The Marine Environmental Data Section (MEDS) of Department of Fisheries and
Ocean (DFO), Canada, and Coriolis Data Center of IFREMER (Institut Français de Recherche
pour l'Exploitation de la Mer), France, to operate as GDACs under MCDS.
Decision justification: Recommendation 4 (JCOMM-5). It is to be noted that:

(i) Appendix VII.1 of revised version of WMO No. 558 (adopted by the Executive Council
through Resolution 10 (EC-70)) includes the list of Established Centres for Marine
Meteorological and Oceanographic Climate Data (CMOCs). In particular, the list includes the
CMOC operated by China in Tianjin. The World Ocean Database of NOAA, USA will be added
to the list.
(ii) Paragraph 3.2 of Appendix 8.1 of revised version of WMO-No. 471 (adopted by the
Executive Council through Resolution 10 (EC-70)) includes the list of established Global
Data Assembly Centres (GDACs) in the Marine Climate Data System (MCDS). In particular,
the Global Collecting Centres (GCCs) of Germany and the United Kingdom are now
integrated in the MCDS as specialized GDACs for Delayed-Mode VOS data and are listed in
WMO-No. 471 as such. The new GDACs operated by Canada and France will be added to
the list.
Decision 24 (EC-70)
Negotiation of satellite communications tariffs
The Executive Council decides to endorse JCOMM Recommendation 11 (JCOMM-5) on

Negotiation of Satellite Data Telecommunication Tariffs.
Decision justification: Recommendation 11 (JCOMM-5). Satcom forum was established

by Congress through Resolution 31 (Cg-17). The objective of the Satcom Forum according to
its terms of reference is to address remote data communication requirements – including tariff
negotiations as needed – for automatic environment observing systems. Since 1984, the JTA
provides for an international mechanism to find cost-effective locations and data processing
of data collected through the Argos system. There is also growing provision from Satcom
providers of fixed-price satellite data communication tariffs for environmental monitoring
applications, which offer opportunities to negotiate tariff for other systems than Argos.
Through its Recommendation 11 (JCOMM-5) JCOMM recommended the Executive Council
(i) to approve the inclusion of the Argos Joint Tariff Agreement (JTA) as a subprogramme of the
Satcom forum; (ii) to give authority to the Chairperson of JTA to approve the JTA Argos Global
Tariff Agreement on behalf of WMO and IOC, as negotiated on a yearly basis within the JTA
framework. JCOMM also invited the Satcom forum, based on the results of the Satcom-Survey
2017, to pursue, with Satcom providers, negotiation of a “WMO–IOC branded disaster alerting
tariff”.
Decision 25 (EC-70)
Emerging data issues
Requests CBS to consult with presidents of regional associations and presidents of technical
commissions on the draft report of the CBS-led review of emerging data issues, both to
socialise the contents and get comments to assist in refining and finalizing the draft review
report;
Requests the Working Group on Strategic and Operational Planning, with support from the
Secretariat and in consultation with PRA and PTCs, to finalize the recommendations in the
report for consideration by Congress; and decides to include a discussion of that report and
recommendations on the agenda for the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress.
Resolution 65 (Cg-17) requested the Commission for Basic Systems, in coordination with other
technical commissions, in particular the Commission for Hydrology, to undertake a review of
emerging data issues. The CBS-led team produced a draft report that was discussed by CBS
Management Group, following discussion at the 2018 Technical Conference of the Commission
for Basic Systems. CBS recommended that the report be discussed by the Eighteenth World
Meteorological Congress. The full draft of the report is in EC-70/INF. 7.3(1). Following is an
executive summary of the draft report of the CBS-led review on emerging data issues.
This report responds to a request from the Seventeenth WMO Congress (Cg-17) to provide
clarity for Members in navigating the rapidly changing world of data and data technologies, and
especially to provide some insight regarding trends and emerging issues in data and its use.
While the paper necessarily refers to technical aspects of data, its focus is on the impact (both
positive and negative) of emerging data issues on WMO and its Members, and how they might
respond collectively and individually, at global, regional and/or national levels.
This CBS-Led Review of Emerging Data Issues drew on a wide range of source materials
and experts, including material compiled by the technical commissions at the request of the
President of WMO and ongoing discussions in Congress, Executive Council, CBS and in working
bodies associated with WIGOS, WIS, GDPFS and PWSD. The discussion and the framing of
potential advice to bring back to Congress roamed widely from evolution to revolution, including
the need to strengthen the ‘irreducible core’ of NMHSs and WMO through reinforcing the
essential role of the WWW; the aspiration that ‘no Member will be left behind’ and that ‘no
Member stands alone’; the need to engage, be inclusive and build alliances; the need to create
and exploit opportunities through data; and the need to challenge traditional pathways while
recognizing the important ongoing, though potentially changing, roles of people.
Emphasis was placed on harnessing the excellent work already being provided through WMO
response to data and technology, in particular through WIGOS, WIS/WIS 2.0, GDPFS/S-GDPFS
and SDS, on equipping Members with the essential tools and advice to adapt to, adopt and
respond to these opportunities, and on mobilizing WMO as a brand focussed on standardization,
coordination and facilitation of a global community in the service of society.
The review converged around the important reminder that data is a means to an end, not an
end in itself. It is only through its intelligent use in engaging with users and in the development
and uptake of services and associated outcomes that meet societal needs that data delivers
its full value, be it over the long term required for historical climate insight and impact
management, the medium term for effective water and natural resource management and
disaster preparedness, or over the shorter term to warn of, and support response to, impending
severe weather events and disasters. The review provided a response framework featuring
concrete actions centred on thinking global, acting local and reaching forward.
Emerging trends in data and data technologies offer WMO as a whole and Members, in
particular, the opportunity to reimagine what efficient, effective and relevant services and
service delivery could look like and how genuine value can be delivered.
Decision 26 (EC-70)
Impact assessment for observing system design and evolution
(1) To agree that priority should be given to studies that address the identified Science
Questions provided in the Annex to this Decision, and which are requiring Numerical
Weather Prediction (NWP) Impact Assessments for Observing System Design and
Evolutions that are anticipated to include observation impact assessment for longer-range
forecasting and non-NWP application areas;
(2) To request CBS to organize the seventh WMO Workshop on the Impact of Various
Observing Systems on NWP in the Republic of Korea in 2020;
(3) To request Members:
(a) To continue the development and research of adjoint- and ensemble-based

observation impact assessment tools, as a complement to traditional OSEs;
(b) To develop OSEs for the optimization of regional composite networks;
(c) To address the science questions listed in the Annex to this Decision , and have
Numerical Weather Prediction Centres to undertake the required impact studies
(e.g. Observing System Experiments – OSEs – and Observing System Simulation
Experiments – OSSEs) during the period 2018 to 2020, and have National
Meteorological and Hydrological Services and NWP centres to actively participate in
the seventh WMO Workshop on the Impact of Various Observing Systems on NWP
(Republic of Korea, 2020).
See EC-70/INF. 7.4(1) for more information.
Note: The present decision replaces Decision 24 (EC-69), which is no longer in force.
Decision justification: CBS Management Group (Geneva, 29 March 2018), following

experts advice provided at CBS TECO 2018 (Geneva, 26–29 March 2018) agreed on the need to
assess the impact of various observing systems on NWP. Observation impact studies provide a
wealth of information of relevance to the evolution of the Global Observing System, and that the
traditional OSE and OSSE techniques are complemented by new adjoint- and ensemble-based
approaches that help inform network design activities and investment.
Science questions requiring NWP impact assessments for

observing system design and evolutions
Short name: Science question

Full name
Surface-based
S1 AMDAR: Encourage studies of impact assessment of AMDAR and MODE-S in data-sparse
Coverage of AMDAR regions. Examples include for instance (1) trade space studies between additional
vertical profiles over land versus en route data over the oceans, and (2)
increasing measurements over poles versus tropics. Provide general guidance for
AMDAR extension priorities.

Full name
S2 Radar: Radar What are the impacts of current radar observations, particularly radar
observations polarization, but also wind profiles, radial winds and reflectivity?
S3 PBL: What should be the focus of improvements for observations of the planetary
Observations of the boundary layer (PBL) in support of regional and high-resolution NWP? Which
PBL for regional and variables and what space-time resolution?
high-resolution NWP
S4 HighElev: High Estimate the actual and potential impacts of high elevation meteorological data
elevation surface from the high mountain regions, for example using OSSE, OSE or FSOI, on
observing stations appropriate environmental models.
Space-based
S5 SatLand: What is the impact of new developments in the assimilation of radiance data over
Satellite sounding land, snow and sea ice?
over land and ice
S6 Sounders: What benefits are found when data from more than one passive sounder are
Impact of multiple available from satellites in complementary orbits?
satellite sounders
S7 AMVs: Which AMV characteristics (temporal resolution, height, etc.) should be enhanced
Atmospheric Motion from the next generation of satellites (such as Geo)?
Vectors
General
S8 UA: Regional Upper-air network design studies such as those that have been performed for
upper-air network the European composite observing system (EUCOS) are required also in other
design studies Regions, especially in Region I where the basic networks are under pressure.
Assessments of recent changes in the networks, including the impact of launching
radiosondes once per day or at non-synoptic times.
S9 Sfc and Sat What is the impact of the increasing capabilities of space-based observing
: Impact of systems on the design and evolution of surface-based observing systems? With
satellite observing special emphasis on the impact on network design in areas with very sparse
capabilities on surface-based networks. Examples include (1) For marine observing systems:
the design of the What density of surface pressure observations over the ocean is needed to
surface-based complement high-density surface wind observations from satellites? And (2) For
observing systems upper air observations: What network of in situ profiling observations is needed
in the stratosphere to complement current satellite observations (including radio
occultation)? Assessments addressing the Tropics are encouraged.
S10 AdjEns:
What insights can be gained from adjoint and ensemble-based impact measures
Application of
tailored for applications such as severe weather, aviation and energy? Specific
adjoint and
impact metrics may be required.
ensemble methods
S11 Ocean: Impact Which ocean observations are particularly important for NWP? Investigate the
in ocean-coupled role of ocean observations, in particular profile observations provided for example
assimilation by the moored buoy arrays, in coupled atmosphere-ocean data assimilation with
a focus on the 7–14 day range.
S12 Land: Impact Which land-surface observations are particularly important for NWP at all
in land-coupled forecast time ranges? Investigate the role of surface observations in coupled
assimilation atmosphere-land data assimilation with a focus on the 7–14 day range.
S13 Data frequency/ Assess the impact of increased frequency and/or timeliness/latency of
Timeliness observations? Consider the case of AMDAR, radiosonde, GEO satellites AMVs and
ground-based remote sensing observations (such as Doppler radar, wind profiler,
ground based GNSS receivers) for regional and global NWP.
S14 Atmospheric Study observation impact in atmospheric composition and air quality application
composition and the impact of atmospheric composition observations (e.g. aerosol) on NWP.
S15 OSSEs Observing system simulation experiments are encouraged in support of satellite
system design criteria such as orbit optimization for GNSS-RO satellites, or for
emerging technology sensors (such as Geo-based hypersperspectral IR or MW
sounders, Small/Cube satellites, etc).

Full name
S16 Impact Observational Impact Studies are encouraged for extended range prediction
Assessment for systems, especially using coupled models. These could be used to investigate
Seasonal And ways to optimize the design of climate observing systems networks.
Climate Applications
S17 Ground-Based Promote undertaking impact studies to assess the impact of ground-based
GNSS GNSS on NWP. This will help measure the potential need to exchange data
internationally. In addition to regional impacts, global impacts or at least wide-
regional impacts are encouraged.
Decision 27 (EC-70)
Sustaining the VLab technical support officer
The Executive Council decides to request Members to consider providing financial

contributions to the WMO – Coordination Group on Meteorological Satellites (CGMS) Virtual
Laboratory for Training and Education in Satellite Meteorology (VLab) Trust Fund.
Decision justification: Satellite providers in CGMS provide annual financial contributions

to keep the Fund operational; however, a broader diversity of donor contributions by Members
would strengthen robustness of the Fund, and help support training activities for a wider
range of WMO Application Areas (e.g. climate, marine meteorology). Commission for Basic
System (CBS) Management Group (Geneva, 29 March 2018), following experts advice provided
at CBS Technical Conference 2018 (Geneva, 26–29 March 2018) agreed to strengthen the
financial support basis for the WMO-CGMS Virtual Laboratory for Training and Education in
Satellite Meteorology (VLab) technical support officer, and that: (i) the WMO VLab Trust Fund
established for this purpose is receiving in total about 80K CHF/year from CGMS satellite
operators (EUMETSAT, Korea Meteorological Administration – KMA) and NOAA National Weather
Service (NWS); and (ii) a broader diversity of donor contributions by Members would strengthen
robustness of the Fund, and enable the VLab to support more training activities in a wider range
of WMO Application Areas.
Decision 28 (EC-70)
Education and outreach strategy regarding data buoy vandalism
(1) To endorse JCOMM Recommendation 5 (JCOMM-5) on education and outreach strategy for
data buoy vandalism;
(2) To request Members to actively engage, support and collaborate in the efforts of the
JCOMM to collect existing education and outreach materials related to national or regional
mitigation of data buoy vandalism efforts.
Note: The present decision replaces Decision 29 (EC-69), which is no longer in force.
Decision justification: Recommendation 5 (JCOMM-5)
Decision 29 (EC-70)
Management of the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and

Marine Meteorology In Situ Observations Programme Support Centre
(1) To endorse Recommendation 6 (JCOMM-5) on the Management of the JCOMM in situ

Observations Programme Support Centre (JCOMMOPS),
(2) To request Members to investigate how they could strengthen their support to JCOMMOPS
and assist for making the funding of JCOMMOPS more stable and sustainable,
(3) To request the Secretary-General to monitor the JCOMMOPS review and to contribute to
this review.
Decision 30 (EC-70)
Long-term ship observing stations
(1) To approve Recommendation 7 (JCOMM-5) on long-term observing stations and to

establish an evaluation process to identify long serving ships in the marine observations;
(2) To request JCOMM to establish an evaluation process to identify the long serving ships on
the marine observations and to establish a process to award certificates to those ships that
have provided ocean observations for a longer period of time.

Decision 31 (EC-70)
Reduction of the number of voluntary observing ship classifications
(1) To endorse Recommendation 9 (JCOMM-5) to reduce the number of voluntary observing

ship (VOS) classifications;
(2) To request JCOMM to:
(a) Fully define the new classes, propose required changes to VOS metadata formats,
reporting procedures for PMOs, and make proposals on how the new third party ships
should be administered and supported in the future;
(b) Develop and propose the required changes in the Manual on the Global Observing
System (WMO-No. 544), Volume I – Global Aspects, the Guide to the Global Observing
System (WMO-No. 488), and the WMO Manual on Codes (WMO-No. 306);
(3) To approve:
(a) Recommended changes to VOS Classifications to be reflected in WMO-No. 544

and WMO-No. 488, and transitioned to the Manual on the WMO Integrated Global
Observing System (WMO-No. 1160) and the Guide to the WMO Integrated Global
Observing System (WMO-No. 1165) as appropriate per WIGOS Pre-Operational Phase
implementation;
(b) To make appropriate amendments to the code tables of the Manual on

Codes (WMO‑No. 306), Vol. I.2, using the “Simple (Fast-track) procedure”
of Resolution 12 (EC‑68).
Decision 32 (EC-70)
Voluntary observing ship metadata
(1) To endorse Recommendation 10 (JCOMM-5) on freezing the International List of Selected,

Supplementary and Auxiliary Ships (WMO-No. 47) and moving to WMO Integrated Global
Observing System metadata structures;
(2) To approve:
(a) The freezing and archival of publication WMO-No. 47, at version 4.2;
(b) The submission of ship metadata from Members directly through the JCOMM In Situ
Observations Programme Support Centre (JCOMMOPS);
(c) The full integration of the publication WMO-No. 47 within the WIGOS Metadata
Standard, and the transfer metadata from the WMO-No. 47 Database to OSCAR/
Surface (https://oscar.wmo.int/surface/), via JCOMMOPS.
Decision 33 (EC-70)
Contribution to Global Ocean Observing System Strategy
(1) To contribute to the implementation of the Global Ocean Observing System 2030 Strategy;
(2) To encourage further dialogue between the IOC-WMO-UNEP-ICSU Global Ocean

Observing System (GOOS) Steering Committee (GSC) and WIGOS in the development of
requirements and observing system evaluation relevant for WMO objectives;
(3) To request Inter-Commission Coordination Group on WIGOS (ICG-WIGOS) to guide CBS

and JCOMM on how to facilitate such dialogue;
(4) To request CBS and JCOMM to engage with the GSC according to ICG-WIGOS guidance.
Decision justification: WMO joined the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission

(IOC) of UNESCO as a co-sponsor of the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) in 1991, and
WMO recognizes the importance of ocean observations for weather and climate. JCOMM-5
formally recognized the role played by the JCOMM Observations Coordination Group (OCG)
for GOOS, and adopted Decision 24 (JCOMM-5) on GOOS co-sponsorship of the JCOMM OCG.
Development of requirements by GOOS for observations related to marine ecosystem health,
and their importance in understanding climate impacts and developing appropriate responses
are appreciated by WMO. The draft Global Ocean Observing System 2030 Strategy (IOC/EC-
LI/2 Annex 8) as submitted to the 51st Session of the IOC Executive Council, 3–6 July 2018 for
its approval, is available from here: http://www.ioc-unesco.org/index.php?option=com_oe&task
=viewDocumentRecord&docID=21552.
Decision 34 (EC-70)
Designation of new regional instrument centres
(1) That CIMO is charged with assessing the capabilities of a candidate Regional Instrument
Centre (RIC) and with CIMO lies the authority and the responsibility to make
recommendations to a regional association on the capability of a candidate to perform the
functions of a RIC;
(2) That a regional association may formally designate a RIC, only upon positive assessment
by CIMO of its capability to perform the functions of a RIC;
(3) To request CIMO to document the process for assessing the capabilities of a candidate RIC.
Decision justification: Terms of Reference for RICs were developed by CIMO and
approved by EC, while regional associations are responsible for the designation of RICs in their
region. Assessing the capabilities of a candidate requires specific technical expertise lying in
CIMO.
Decision 35 (EC-70)
Architecture for climate monitoring from space
(1) To note the concept paper as described in the Annex of this decision;
(2) To request the Commission for Basic Systems, in consultation with the CEOS-CGMS
Working Group, to consider the added value of the concept paper in the light of the new
CGMS baseline and the Vision for WIGOS 2040, and to provide advice to ICG-WIGOS in
relation to the development of the an implementation plan for the WIGOS Vision 2040;
(3) To request the Secretary-General to invite the CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on climate
to give a demonstration of the architecture for climate monitoring from space at the
Congress-18.
Decision justification: WMO Resolution 19 (Cg-XVI) called for the development of an

Architecture for Climate Monitoring from Space to provide a framework for the sustained and
coordinated monitoring of the Earth climate from space.
Concept for the physical view of the architecture for climate monitoring from space
The Physical View of the “Climate Constellation” should be a virtual constellation composed of
virtual sub-constellations providing the observations to derive a single or a group of ECVs. The
sub-constellations will belong to either CEOS members or CGMS members or a combination of
both. At present, there is already a set of CEOS virtual sub-constellations covering a set of ECVs
and reporting to the CEOS SIT (Strategic Implementation Team). CGMS should establish its own
virtual sub-constellations covering atmospheric-related ECVs which will become sub-constellations
in the overall system. In the future, new virtual sub-constellations may be required as new
ECVs and GFCS observational requirements emerge. Each virtual sub-constellation will have the
responsibility for the generation of Fundamental Climate Data Records [FCDRs] (and Thematic
Climate Data Records [TCDRs] when appropriate). The CEOS and CGMS sub-constellations
should report to the CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on Climate on scientific, coordination, and
technical issues. The CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on Climate will have the responsibility to
“follow” the generation of the Climate Data Records (CDRs) thus enabling stewardship for those
CDRs where satellite data are utilized. The CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on Climate will also
have the responsibility: to continue the analyses conducted for each ECV to include new data
sets; to respond to reports from the individual sub-constellations; and to inform and recommend
appropriate actions by any space agency or organization involved in CDR production.
CONCEPT FOR THE PHYSICAL VIEW OF THE ARCHITECTURE FOR

CLIMATE MONITORING FROM SPACE
1. INTRODUCTION
The Architecture for Climate Monitoring consists of two parts: a generic (ECV-independent)
logical view that represents the functional components (called Pillars) of the assumed
requirements baseline (based on GCOS documentation) and a companion physical view that is
designed to capture the current and planned physical implementation arrangements on an ECV-
by-ECV basis and will also include future GFCS observational requirements. Consensus has been
achieved on the overall logical view as described in the Strategy Towards an Architecture for
Climate Monitoring from Space, 2013. The logical view comprises the following 4 Pillars: Pillar-I:
Sensing the Earth environment from space; Pillar-II: Climate record creation and presentation;
Pillar-III: Applications; and Pillar-IV: Decision making. Up to now, the main emphasis over the
last years has been on Pillar-II and concentrated on the establishment of an inventory of the
available climate data records held by space agencies. The physical view has yet to be defined.
The purpose of this paper is to propose the physical view for Pillars I and II (in this document
called Physical View), in concept, and seek CGMS approval. The reason for limiting at this
moment the Physical View to Pillars I and II is that those pillars are under the responsibilities of
the space agencies. The physical view of Pillars III and IV will have to be established by those
entities dealing with applications, e.g. GFCS and decision making-industry, and governments.
sub-constellations will belong to either CEOS members or CGMS members or a combination
of both. At present, there is already a set of CEOS virtual sub-constellations covering a
set of ECVs and reporting to the CEOS SIT (Strategic Implementation Team). CGMS should
establish its own virtual sub-constellations covering atmospheric-related ECVs which will
become sub-constellations in the overall system. In the future, new virtual sub-constellations
may be required as new ECVs and GFCS observational requirements emerge. Each virtual
sub-constellation will have the responsibility for the generation of Fundamental Climate Data
Records [FCDRs] (and Thematic Climate Data Records [TCDRs] when appropriate). The CEOS
and CGMS sub-constellations should report to the CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on Climate
on scientific, coordination, and technical issues. The CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on
Climate will have the responsibility to “follow” the generation of the Climate Data Records
(CDRs) thus enabling stewardship for those CDRs where satellite data are utilized. The CEOS-
CGMS Joint Working Group on Climate will also have the responsibility: to continue the analyses
conducted for each ECV to include new data sets; to respond to reports from the individual
sub-constellations; and to inform and recommend appropriate actions by any space agency or
organization involved in CDR production.
2. BACKGROUND
The Strategy Towards an Architecture for Climate Monitoring from Space, 2013 (“Strategy
2013” henceforth) focuses on satellite observations for climate monitoring from space, and the
need for an international architecture that ensures delivery of these observations over the time
frames required for analysis of the Earth climate system and providing the required data sets
for the provision of climate services. The strategy, however, is not sufficient, in and of itself, and
therefore also presents a logical architecture that represents an initial step in the development
of a physical architecture – an end-to-end system – capable of delivering the necessary
observations for climate monitoring from space.
The proposed architecture calls for a constellation of research and operational satellites, broad,
open data-sharing policies and contingency planning. It includes agreements that are essential
for bringing the same continuity to long-term and sustained climate observations that we have
today for weather observations. The task of climate monitoring, however, has requirements that
must extend beyond the capabilities of one-time research missions and operational satellite
systems in existence today.
3. CLIMATE CONSTELLATION, SUB-CONSTELLATIONS AND VIRTUAL

CONSTELLATIONS
The physical architecture should capture the current and planned implementation strategies,
on an Essential Climate Variable (ECV)-by-ECV basis since each ECV will be either a single
climate variable or a set of climate variables. For example, the ECV entitled “sea surface
temperature” is a single ECV while the ECV entitled “cloud properties” includes six different ECV
products (cloud amount, cloud top temperature, cloud top pressure, cloud optical depth, cloud
water path and cloud effective particle radius). Thus, an optimum “macro-scale” space system
configuration and its components would be in the form of sub-constellations for each ECV or
groups of ECVs, as well as the respective ground systems from the combined perspective of the
logical and physical architectures (Strategy 2013, p.35).
CEOS has developed the concept of “Virtual Constellations” aiming to foster partnerships in
addressing key observational and scientific gaps on specific themes, and prepare for the routine
collection of critical observations. A CEOS Virtual Constellation is a set of space and ground
segment capabilities operating together in a coordinated manner, in effect a virtual system
that overlaps in coverage in order to meet a combined and common set of Earth observation
requirements. The individual satellites and ground segments can belong to a single owner or
to multiple owners. The Constellation concept builds upon or serves to refocus already existing
projects and activities. The Constellations effort provides a unique forum to achieve political
visibility and increase mutual benefit among space and other environmental agencies. There are
currently seven CEOS Virtual Constellations (suggested virtual constellation abbreviations are
shown:
1. Atmospheric Composition Virtual Constellation – (AC-VC)
2. Ocean Surface Topography Virtual Constellation – (OST-VC)
3. Precipitation Virtual Constellation – (P-VC)
4. Land Surface Imaging Virtual Constellation – (LSI-VC)
5. Ocean Color Radiometry Virtual Constellation – (OCR-VC)
6. Ocean Surface Vector Wind Virtual Constellation – (OSVW-VC)
7. Sea Surface Temperature Virtual Constellation – (SST-VC)

The above seven CEOS Virtual Constellations should be able to provide almost 70% of the ECVs.
Thus, the virtual constellation approach is deemed the most appropriate approach for sub-
constellations, i.e. a sub-constellation should be virtual and the Climate Constellation will be
comprised of virtual sub-constellations.
CGMS has established over the last 40 years five working groups that report at regular
CGMS plenary meetings. The five Working Groups are (and suggested virtual constellation
abbreviations are shown):
1. International TOVS Working Group – Vertical Temperature Virtual Constellation – (VTP‑VC)
2. International Radio-Occultation Working Group – Radio-Occultation Virtual

Constellation – (RO-VC)
3. International Precipitation Working Group – Precipitation Virtual Constellation – (P-VC)
4. International Winds Working Group – Atmospheric Motion Vector Virtual Constellation

– (AMV-VC)
5. International Clouds Working Group – Clouds Virtual Constellation – (C-VC)
The above five working groups activities should be expanded to include production of specific
ECVs. If the five working groups also establish virtual sub-constellations as indicated, then
almost 20% of the remaining ECVs could be provided. It might be necessary to combine the
CEOS virtual constellation on precipitation with the activities of the International Precipitation
Working Group of CGMS.
Thus, a Climate Constellation comprised of CEOS and CGMS virtual sub-constellation would
provide almost 90% of all ECVs. The remaining ECVs not yet covered could be through
additional virtual sub-constellations and allow CEOS and CGMS to provide observational data for
100% of ECVs requiring satellite observations.
4. GOVERNANCE
At the core of good governance is a clear articulation of roles and responsibilities, including
decision-making and resource commitments, coupled with structures of accountability for
outcomes. For long-term governance, it is strongly recommended to use and strengthen
existing coordination mechanisms first and resist the temptation to create a new mechanism
or body that is duplicative (Strategy 2013, p.33/34). Fortunately, the virtual sub-constellation
approach allows the use of the CEOS and CGMS virtual constellation structures to be
responsible for the creation of Fundamental Climate Data Records (FCDRs). Creation of FCDRs is
best performed by space agencies operating the specific sensor.
The generation of Higher-Level Climate Information Records such as climate indices often needs
the combination of both FCDRs originating from spaceborne and ground-based systems, as
well as modelling components. Thus, an activity producing CDRs might be best placed in an
organization that combines information, such as reanalysis centres, climate service centres
or environmental agencies. Therefore, the generation of CDRs would most likely not be made
within space agencies but there should be a governance mechanism to link the individual FCDR
producers to the CDR producer. This linking mechanism should be within the responsibility of
CEOS and CGMS and it should provide the interface. The CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on
Climate has already demonstrated considerable expertise in analyzing data sets and performing
gap analyses. To utilize this existing mechanism would be very advantageous. Therefore, the
CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on Climate should have overall responsibility and coordinate
amongst all virtual sub-constellation and “follow” the generation of the Climate Data Records
CGMS Joint Working Group on Climate should also have the responsibility: to continue the
analyses conducted for each ECV to include new data sets; to respond to reports from the
individual sub-constellations; and to inform and recommend appropriate actions by any involved
space agency or organization involved in CDR production.
5. OTHER ACTIVITIES – CALIBRATION (CEOS WGCV, GSICS, AND QA4EO)
The need for minimal uncertainty in climate monitoring, together with the need to combine data
from a variety of sources (space and in situ), and emerging products with data assimilation,
have placed “traceability” and its quantification at the top of the agenda. Intercalibration
enables consistency among satellite measurements to be achieved. Without traceability to
stable reference standards, intercalibration is, however, exposed to the risk of drifting over time
and such drifts may obscure the climate trend over several decades. Therefore, strategies are
being developed to improve traceability to SI units and evaluate biases with sufficient accuracy
that enables time series of data sets to be appropriately and reliably linked.
5.1 Activities of the CEOS Working Group on Calibration and Validation (WGCV)
The mission of the WGCV is to ensure long-term confidence in the accuracy and quality of EO
data and products, and to provide a forum for the exchange of information, for coordination,
and for cooperative activities on calibration and/or validation. It is instrumental in the
establishment of a common technical language amongst the users of EO data and customers
of satellite-derived products. The WGCV coordinates and supports joint experiments and the
sharing of facilities, expertise and resources. The group also addresses the need to standardize
ways of combining data from different sources to ensure the interoperability required for the
effective use of existing and future EO systems. Thus, the WGCV and its thematic subgroups
contribute to improving the performance of all Earth observation programmes.
5.2 Activities of the Global Space-based Intercalibration System (GSICS)
The Global Space-based Intercalibration System (GSICS) was initiated in 2005 by WMO and
CGMS with a goal to ensure consistent calibration of satellite measurements from different
instruments and missions contributing to the Global Observing System (GOS), and tie the
measurements to SI units. GSICS has defined and implemented procedures for operational,
in-orbit satellite instrument intercalibration. This consists of relating the measurements of one
instrument to those of a reference instrument with a stated uncertainty, when both instruments
are viewing the same scenes at the same time, from the same viewing angle. For satellite data
time series in an archive, the overlapping records of two satellite instruments can be compared
once a number of effects, such as diurnal cycle, are taken into account. Earth-based or celestial
targets are also used as a complement. GSICS intercalibration allows biases to be removed
among satellite measurements. Fifteen operational or research and development (R&D) space
agencies are contributing to GSICS.
5.3 QA4EO – A Quality Assurance for Earth Observation (QA4EO)
The fundamental principle of the Quality Assurance Framework for Earth Observation (QA4EO)
is that “all EO data and derived products have associated with them a documented and fully
traceable quality indicator (QI)”. QA4EO seeks to ensure that this universally applicable principle
is implemented in a consistent manner throughout all EO.
A framework document provides information on the principles and concepts that underpin the
QA4EO philosophy. It is complemented by a set of key guidelines to support the adoption of the
QA4EO ethos for operational working. These are further enhanced by numerous community-
specific guidelines that assist in the practical implementation of QA4EO at the working level.
With the proposed physical view of the Architecture, it will be important for the calibration
activities of all three above entities to be expanded to all virtual sub-constellation regardless of
CEOS or CGMS ownership. The combined impact of all three calibration activities will improve
each FCDR and thus also improve CDRs.
6. USER COMMUNITIES
The most relevant and comprehensive set of specific user requirements has been provided
by GCOS within their supplement Systematic Observation Requirements for Satellite-Based
Products for Climate (GCOS-154) to the GCOS Implementation Plan (GCOS-138),2 applicable to
climate change and long-term variability monitoring. The GCOS requirements were given for
a set of Essential Climate Variables (ECV) where the feasibility of satellite measurements has
been demonstrated. The CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on Climate has conducted its first
gap analysis using available space agency data sets compared to those GCOS ECVs and its first
report should have been available in the second half of 2017. Thus, the first report should have
provided a preliminary indication of the ability of CEOS and CGMS to produce FCDRs that could
be used as CDRs for climate change and long-term variability monitoring as well as input into
climate information services. The first report should also allow the identification of missions and
instruments that would constitute an initial Climate Constellation.
The GFCS adds another dimension to the requirements that is the direct link to user
applications. It defines climate services as climate information prepared and delivered to
meet needs of users. The GFCS describes a need for climate information that encompasses
many application areas ranging from disaster risk reduction, agriculture and food security,
water resources, health to energy applications and highlights the needs to support developing
countries in particular. From this broad range of applications, it is clear that the needs
of decision makers will be very diverse. Thus, the need for tailored services, including
observational but also prediction components, will certainly arise from the implementation of
GFCS. GFCS further states that decision makers in many developing countries do not have the
information that would help.
7. ACTIONS AND/OR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CONSIDERATION BY CGMS

PLENARY SESSION
CGMS to approve the proposed Physical View for the Climate Constellation.
sub-constellations will belong to either CEOS members or CGMS members or a combination
of both. At present, there is already a set of CEOS virtual sub-constellations covering a
set of ECVs and reporting to the CEOS SIT (Strategic Implementation Team). CGMS should
establish its own virtual sub-constellations covering atmospheric-related ECVs which will
become sub-constellations in the overall system. In the future, new virtual sub-constellations
may be required as new ECVs and GFCS observational requirements emerge. Each virtual
sub-constellation will have the responsibility for the generation of Fundamental Climate Data
Records [FCDRs] (and Thematic Climate Data Records [TCDRs] when appropriate). The CEOS
and CGMS sub-constellations should report to the CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on Climate
on scientific, coordination, and technical issues. The CEOS-CGMS Joint Working Group on
Climate will have the responsibility to “follow” the generation of the Climate Data Records
CGMS Joint Working Group on Climate will also have the responsibility: to continue the analyses
conducted for each ECV to include new data sets; to respond to reports from the individual
sub-constellations; and to inform and recommend appropriate actions by any space agency or
organization involved in CDR production.
2
Updated by the GCOS 2016 Implementation Plan (GCOS-200).
Decision 36 (EC-70)
Development of the Space-based Weather and Climate Extremes Monitoring

Demonstration Project
(1) To request the Commission for Climatology and Commission for Basic Systems to review
the SEMDP Implementation Plan in East Asia and Western Pacific Regions with the goal
to have it updated in advance of the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress to reflect
feedback from Members during its demonstration phase;
(2) To consider that the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress decides on matters
concerning:
(a) Implementation of the SEMDP in East Asia and Western Pacific Regions in operation
phase;
(b) Implementation of the SEMDP in other regions.
Decision justification: EC-69 decided to support a demonstration project on space-

based weather and climate extremes monitoring (SEMDP) in WMO Regions to the extent that
resources are available, and requested the presidents of the Commission for Climatology (CCl)
and the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS), with the support of the other TCs and RAs, to
establish a demonstration project on space-based weather and climate extremes monitoring
(SEMDP) and decide on priority WMO Region(s) starting in 2018 for a two year duration.
(See EC-70/INF. 7.4(3) for more information)
Decision 37 (EC-70)
Inter-programme Expert Team on Aircraft-based Observing Systems
(1) To authorize the president of the Commission for Basic Systems to establish, in
consultation with the president of the Commission for Instruments and Methods of
Observation, an Inter-Programme Expert Team on Aircraft-Based Observing Systems, with
the Terms of Reference given in the Annex to this Decision;
(2) To requests CBS to collaborate with CIMO in the selection of the chairperson and members
of the Inter-Programme Expert Team and in the establishment of its work plan;
(3) Calls on all technical commissions to ensure that the Inter-Programme Expert Team is
aware of their priorities concerning aircraft based observing systems requirements, as
appropriate.
Decision justification: CBS and CIMO WMO Working Structures currently include (i) a
CBS Expert Team on Aircraft-Based Observing Systems, and (ii) a CIMO Expert Team on
Aircraft Observations. Following discussions between CBS and CIMO Management Groups, it is
believed that there are sufficient potential synergies existing between the two Expert Teams to
propose merging them into a new Inter Programme Expert Team. CBS and CIMO Presidents, in
consultation with the Management Groups of CBS and CIMO, and the relevant OPAGs, concurred
with and proposed the Terms of Reference provided in the Annex to this draft Decision.
Considering the current focus on coordination, and expansion of Aircraft-Based observing
systems, including in collaboration with IATA (see Recommendation 9 (EC-70)), it is proposed to
place the IPET under CBS leadership.
Terms of reference of the Inter-Programme Expert Team on Aircraft-Based

Observations And Systems (IPET-ABO)
Within the WIGOS framework and the auspices of the WMO Aircraft-Based Observing System
Programme (ABO), under the governance of CBS and the joint guidance of CBS and CIMO,
act as the WMO primary working group on aircraft-based systems and observations with
responsibility to:
1. Oversee and coordinate the programmatic, scientific, and technical development and
operation of aircraft-based observing systems (including AMDAR, Mode-S, ADS and other
commercial systems), and of aircraft-based instruments and methods of observations;
2. Develop and manage the work plan and associated activities of the expert team, including
the budget for associated expenditure of the AMDAR Trust Fund in line with its Terms of
Reference;
3. Coordinate the development, scientific testing, validation and inter-comparison of existing

and new methods of observation (including humidity, turbulence and inflight icing) for
aircraft-based observing systems, as well as for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs);
4. Organize and conduct the development, maintenance and provision of technical standards
and specifications associated with aircraft-based observations according to user
requirements;
5. Collaborate with the aviation industry (e.g. the airlines and IATA), relevant international
and regional organizations (e.g. ICAO), on relevant matters, and oversee the international
and regional aspects of management of aircraft-based observational data;
6. Promote development and maintenance of the aircraft-based observations component of

the WIGOS Data Quality Monitoring System;
7. Review outcomes of relevant CIMO Testbed(s) and/or Lead Centre(s), and coordinate
inclusion of guidance material in IOM reports and WMO-No. 8, Guide to Meteorological
Instruments and Methods of Observations;
8. Compile and review updates and new material on aircraft-based observations and
observing systems, including in particular maintenance of relevant Regulatory and
Guidance Material, in WMO-No. 8, WMO-No. 1160, WMO-No. 1165, and WMO-No. 1200;
9. Conduct and provide support for training and outreach activities of WMO, to support
the development of aircraft-based observing systems and the use of aircraft-based
observations;
10. Work in collaboration and cooperation with other teams and WMO on the above activities
as appropriate and as necessary;
11. Report on issues, activities and progress to CBS and CIMO, as well as to CAeM if required.
Decision 38 (EC-70)
Development of a WMO position on critical satellite data
The Executive Council noting the Critical Satellite Data Position Paper provided in the Annex,
requests CBS in consultation with other technical commissions and programmes, taking into
account the discussions at the 14th session of the Consultative Meetings on High-Level Policy
on Satellite Matters, to finalize the position paper with the aim to providing recommendations to
EC-71 for further actions.
Decision justification: The fourth session of the Inter-Programme Expert Team on

Satellite Utilization and Products (IPET-SUP), held from 26 February to 1 March 2018, finalized
the position paper on critical satellite data for WMO applications, and implications of a possible
revision of WMO Resolution 40 Annex 1.
The position paper is a key outcome of discussions in IPET-SUP regarding principles that should
govern global exchange of satellite data under a scenario where the prospect of private-sector
operators of basic satellite systems has triggered renewed attention to the issue of data access
and availability for global WMO applications, in particular for near-real-time applications. It
formulates eight principles that providers of satellite data should fulfil to meet the critical needs
of the meteorological community and defines what critical satellite data are.
The position paper was presented to and discussed in the Technical Conference of the
Commission for Basic Systems (CBS), held from 26 to 29 March 2018. Subsequently, the CBS
Management Group (CBS-MG) agreed to submit a draft decision for the 70th session of the
WMO Executive Council (EC-70) to translate the Critical Satellite Data Position Paper into WMO
guidance material and to publish it as a WMO Space Programme technical publication.
See the annex to the present decision for more information.
Critical Satellite Data Position Paper
(WMO Space Programme, Final Draft, 28 February 2018)
Summary and Purpose of Document
The prospect of private-sector operators of basic satellite systems has triggered

renewed attention to the issue of data access and availability for global WMO
applications, in particular for near-real-time applications. IPET-SUP decided in
2015 to develop a Position Paper from the satellite user perspective on what
types of satellite data should be considered critical for the protection of life and
property.
The Position Paper formulates eight principles that providers of satellite data
should fulfil to meet the critical needs of the meteorological community, and
defines what critical satellite data are.
CRITICAL SATELLITE DATA POSITION PAPER
Introduction
The prospect of private-sector operators of basic satellite systems has triggered renewed
attention to the issue of data access and availability for WMO applications, in particular for near-
real-time applications such as nowcasting and numerical weather prediction. Noting the validity
of WMO Resolution 40, the satellite-specific provisions in the Resolution reflect the technical
and political landscape of the mid-1990 (when the main use of satellite data was imagery for
nowcasting) and need revisiting.
There is concern in the meteorological community about the future role of commercial providers
of meteorological satellite data. Commercialization of basic data may lead to considerably
different data dissemination and exchange models than what is current best practice,
undermine the model of international exchange of data that is critical to applications, and thus
jeopardize continuing progress of the meteorological enterprise.
IPET-SUP decided to develop a Position Paper from the satellite user perspective on the criteria
for satellite data that should be considered critical for the protection of life and property.
IPET-SUP has stressed that for users, in addition to meeting the timeliness demands of
applications, transparency and traceability in data generation were key criteria for using data,
including satellite-based data. The Position Paper should help Members define high-level best
practices regarding the use of basic satellite observations generated by commercial entities.
The paper uses the term “critical satellite data” (in the sense of being critical for the protection
of life and property), to avoid confusion with the defined term “essential” in the context of WMO
Resolution 40.
Purpose of this Document
To provide a satellite data user perspective on the principles that should apply to critical
satellite data generation and distribution, i.e., to data that are critical for the protection of life
and property. It is intended to guide public agencies responsible for the provision of satellite
data for weather, water, climate and related environmental applications, and commercial
operators of Earth-observing satellite systems.
Background
For meteorological and related systems, satellite industry has so far most often assumed a
role of contractor delivering a system to the governmental customer, and government has
been owning and distributing the data to the user community. Rapid changes in the space
industry are driven by the commercialization of space activities and high demand for weather
and climate information: for instance, commercial sector delivering observations in addition
to systems; by sharing financial and technical risks in a different manner, e.g. through public/
private partnerships; by implementing satellite missions and distributing data on a purely
commercial basis. These approaches could open opportunities to enhance the observing
system, however, for WMO and user communities, there are also risks associated with a
changing role of industry which should be anticipated and addressed carefully, in the following
areas:
(a) Limitations to the exchange of data due to its commercialization, resulting in overall less
availability of data;
(b) Lack of publicly-available information on the detailed technical specifications of the system,
resulting in loss of traceability, reliability and credibility of the science behind the data. This
could undermine user uptake and readiness;
(c) Risk that potential benefits of commercial initiatives in the short term undermine decision
processes, funding mechanisms and sustainability of long-term national or regional
programmes which are essential to meet national, regional or global requirements.
Given the opportunities and risks, it is important to identify the conditions under which
commercial initiatives could make a successful contribution to the global space-based observing
system such that it serves the requirements of WMO.
International exchange of observational data among Members in near-real time and as soon
as possible after launch has been critical for the excellent advances over the past decades
witnessed in meteorology, climate and related sciences, having led to improved skill of
global prediction models and improved warnings. The success of weather forecasting and
warnings relies on the near-real time availability of global data because they are a prerequisite
for weather forecasting with numerical models. There is strong inter-dependency among
Global Producing Centres and NMHSs in delivering and exchanging high-quality forecast
products. Many studies on the benefit of observations – notably on satellite observations
– have demonstrated how much modern societies gain from good weather forecasting and
continuous weather awareness, e.g. for risk reduction and planning of many weather dependent
businesses. This has been achieved thanks to global cooperation, duly considering the global
nature of the discipline. The WMO Resolution 40 (Cg-XII) provides the policy framework for the
international exchange of data. Global data exchange will remain a key requirement to inform
global and regional applications, and the data policies of satellite data providers should facilitate
such exchange.
Without assuming to coordinate commercial sector initiatives, WMO can have a beneficial
influence on the provision of observational data by commercial operators through setting
overall principles and priorities, highlighting the importance of data quality and interoperability
standards, and advocating full visibility of the science behind the data. The latter is an essential
element to verify the quality of data and products.
Current WMO Activities
Guidance on WIGOS Data Partnerships
Under the auspices of the Inter-Commission Coordination Group on the WMO Integrated Global
Observing System (ICG-WIGOS), a guidance document on WIGOS data partnerships was
produced. The document provides specific guidance related to incorporating and sharing data
from non-NMHS sources into the WIGOS framework (focussing on surface-based observational
data). It highlights the potential benefits and challenges of data from external providers, and
clarifies the roles and expectations of NMHSs in integrating external data in compliance with
WIGOS technical regulations.
The paper notes that “private data providers are increasingly offering their observations
(typically surface-based, GPS-Radio Occultation, and aircraft data) to NMHSs for use in the
generation of products and services. The license terms are typically more restrictive than
those in the above category and they may not allow onward sharing and exchange. Members
are encouraged to pursue licence terms that permit the open or broadest exchange of data
wherever possible.”
Executive Council
A task team working under EC auspices is exploring a WMO position on public-private sector
engagement for all service areas. It is led by the President of WMO, David Grimes (Environment
and Climate Change Canada).
Basic Principles for Critical Satellite Data
The following principles should apply to critical satellite data from the users’ perspective:3, 4
Principle 1: Free and unrestricted international exchange between WMO Members of critical
satellite data in near real-time
Rationale: International exchange of meteorological and related data has been the engine for
advances of the meteorological enterprise, such as improved global forecasts. No country is in a
position to collect all the observational data it requires for driving model forecasts.
Principle 2: Transparency in instrument characteristics and processing steps
Rationale: Understanding basic observational data is critical to ensure their correct usage and
positive contribution in applications. For this purpose, information about instrument properties
and advance notification on their change over time (due to degradation, for example) is required
to be able to discern observing system effects from changes in the observable, and to quantify
uncertainty. Details about the processing of data (for example, calibration coefficients) are
equally important.
Principle 3: Documented user engagement and potential impact on applications
Rationale: Providers of critical satellite data should directly address and respond to user
requirements in the definition phase of the satellite system, and ensure the demonstration of
the potential positive impact in applications.
Principle 4: Documented algorithms and information to support validation (indication of

maturity)
Rationale: To correctly apply data and products, and to validate uncertainties, information about
the algorithms and validation procedures is critical.
Principle 5: Information on data latency, data format, processing tools available
Rationale: Users need to know when to expect data, i.e. the time delay between acquisition and
availability of data with users, as well as the data format and metadata that are indispensable
to correctly interpret data. Many users benefit from processing tools delivered alongside data,
especially if they do not have their own processing and analysis systems.
Principle 6: Timely provision of pre-validated data to users
Rationale: To accelerate and streamline the ingestion of data from new or upgraded space-
based systems into applications, users require preview of various forms of preliminary data.
These include synthetic data, simulated data, proxy data, and pre-operational data.
Principle 7: Unrestricted access to archived data5
Rationale: Satellite data providers should allow unrestricted access to archived data, to enable
non-real-time applications, and the generation of climate data records. Full records of metadata
should be maintained along with the data to enable correct interpretation. Quality assurance
processes, version control and regular reprocessing of data should be the norm.
Principle 8: Plans for sustained data provision
3
Details on information required to enable user readiness are provided in the WMO Guideline on Best Practices on
Achieving User Readiness for New Meteorological Satellites (WMO-No. 1187) (see e.g., p. 15/16).
4
Detailed guidance on climate dataset generation is provided in GCOS-143; the GCOS climate monitoring principles
are provided in GCOS-200 (p. 48).
5
WMO Res. 60 defines the WMO Data Policy regarding climate data.
Rationale: Operational WMO applications usually require provision of data on a long-term basis:
climate applications require multi-year datasets which are generally based on continuity of
comparable observing technology; NWP centres’ investments in infrastructure is only cost-
effective if the data are available for a long time period (at least five years)
Table 1: Critical Satellite Data

Principal applications driving
Type of satellite data and source1
spatial-temporal requirements2
Data from geostationary orbiting satellites

GEO imagery Nowcasting, NWP
GEO sounding channels Nowcasting, NWP
GEO lightning Nowcasting
GEO space environment and weather data Space weather
Data from Low-Earth orbiting satellites
Nowcasting, Ocean applications, Agricultural
Operational LEO VIS-IR imagery
meteorology
LEO IR sounding Global NWP
LEO MW sounding Global NWP
LEO MW Imagery Global NWP, Nowcasting, Ocean applications
Scatterometry Ocean applications, Global NWP
Ocean surface topography by radar altimetry Ocean applications
Radio-occultation sounding Global NWP
Broadband VIS/IR radiometry for Earth
Global NWP
Radiation Balance
Total Solar Irradiance Global NWP
Atmospheric Composition services in Urban and
Atmospheric composition
Populated Areas; Forecasting Atmospheric Composition
Narrow-band VIS/NIR imagery for ocean Ocean applications; Agricultural meteorology; Aviation
colour, vegetation, aerosols meteorology
High-resolution multi-spectral VIS/IR
Agricultural meteorology; Hydrology
imagery
IR dual-angle view imagery for SST Ocean applications, Sub-seasonal to longer predictions
Particle detection and/or electron density Space weather
Magnetic field Space weather
Solar activity Space weather

1
Following the mission types in the CGMS Baseline for the Operational Contribution to the GOS, Manual on the
WIGOS (WMO-No. 1160), Attachment 4.1, p. 123.
2
Observation requirements for WMO Application Areas are being maintained in the WMO Rolling Review
of Requirements process (http://www.wmo-sat.info/oscar/applicationareas). The quantitative requirements for
observing geophysical variables provide guidance for the definition of the spatial and temporal resolution of critical
datasets.
Decision 39 (EC-70)
Outcomes of the fourteenth session of the WMO Consultative Meeting on High-level

Policy on Satellite Matters
(1) Endorse the Summary Statement provided by the President following the 14th Consultative
Meeting on High Level Policy on Satellite Matters, included in the annex to the present
decision;
(2) Request all Members to actively work with their national space agencies and/or
international space agencies in which they are partners to ensure full and open access to
all relevant satellite observations for all global processing centers;
(3) Request the Secretary-General to schedule future CM Sessions so as to not coincide with
EC and/or Congress Sessions in order to ensure (i) participation of relevant representatives
from both WMO and the space agencies, and (ii) that recommendations made by the CM
can be incorporated into decisions made by the WMO governing bodies.
The 14th Session of the Consultative Meetings on High-level Policy on Satellite Matters (CM-14)
was held at WMO in Geneva, Switzerland on 23 June 2018. Approximately 60 participants from
space agencies, WMO Executive Council delegations, invited experts and the WMO Secretariat
attended the meeting.
The role of the Consultative Meetings on High-level Policy on Satellite Matters is to support a
high-level dialogue between the satellite operators and WMO representatives, including the
President, Vice-Presidents, Presidents of Technical Commissions and Regional Associations,
Secretary-General and Directors (Resolution 6 (Cg-XIV)). As decided by the Executive Council,
the CM session is normally held every two years (Resolution 10, EC-66).
An important purpose of the meetings is to ensure a better mutual understanding between

WMO and the agencies of all issues related to the space-based observation system. Among the
intended deliverables are (i) guidance to the WMO Space Programme and (ii) recommendations
to the WMO constituent bodies and/or the space agencies.
Summary statement by the Chair, CM-14
Over the last two decades it has become clear that space-based observations, due to their
impact on the global numerical weather prediction systems that form the backbone of most
meteorological products, are playing and will continue to play a critical role in the ability of
all WMO Members to deliver vital services to their constituencies in order to help save lives,
protect property and foster economic growth. Full and open access to all relevant satellite data
for all global processing centers of the WMO Members is therefore essential.
The wish of private sector entities to play a larger role in the acquisition and delivery of space-
base observations is well recognized. Acknowledging the expertise and the adaptability of the
private sector, this development should be welcomed, as long as it does not jeopardize the
overall access to observations mentioned above.
While recognizing the growing role and importance of the space-based observing system, its
synergies with, and dependence on, surface-based observations must be kept in mind. In
keeping with the overall philosophy of WIGOS as an integrated system that includes both space-
based and surface-based assets, WMO must continue to diligently study the respective impacts
and contributions of the two sides and develop guidance material that clearly articulates the
specific roles and relevance of both space-based and surface-based observations.
Regarding future sessions of the Consultative Meeting, the meeting recommended that in order
to ensure optimal attendance of representatives from both WMO and the space agencies and
to allow sufficient time for recommendations developed by the CM to be incorporated into the
workflow of the Executive Council, CM Sessions are not to be scheduled during the Executive
Council, but that consideration be given to possibly taking advantage of appropriate technical
commission sessions instead. It was further recommended that the agenda for future meetings
should reflect the clear and unique role of the CM and not duplicate deliberations already made
by CEOS and/or CGMS.
Decision 40 (EC-70)
Further development of a seamless Global Data-processing and Forecasting System

Implementation Plan
(1) That the Executive Council Steering Group on the Seamless Data-processing and
Forecasting System, chaired jointly by the Presidents of CBS and CAS will:
(a) Continue the consultation process to deliver a refined implementation plan to

Congress,
(b) Identify further potential pilot projects and develop project plans for those proposals
that have a sufficient level of maturity,
(c) Rename the future GDPFS in a way that would be easy to pronounce and that conveys
information on the System, similar to its WWW sister programmes which evolved from
GTS to WIS and from GOS to WIGOS;
(2) To endorse the recommendation of CBS Management Group for the organization of a
World Meteorological Centre (WMCs) workshop involving operations and research to
ensure collaboration among the centres and the development of new initiatives to support
Members, especially LDC and SIDS. The EC also acknowledged China’s proposal to host the
first WMCs workshop in Beijing, China in 2019.
(3) To request the Secretary General to:
(a) Distribute the draft implementation plan to Members for their comments and;
(b) Make the resources available to support the continued development of the draft
implementation plan in a manner that strengthens the synergies between science and
services
(4) To urge the Members to:
(a) Provide their comments on the draft implementation plan and to assist in the
definition of future pilot projects,
(b) Contribute to the Trust Fund and support secondments to facilitate the development of
the draft implementation plan and establishment of pilot projects
(5) To request the Presidents of CBS and CAS to:
(a) Review the membership of the Steering Group to ensure the availability of the
expertise necessary for completion of the draft implementation plan,
(b) Propose to Congress a coordination mechanism aligned with the future structure and
governance of the WMO, that ensures the continued joint responsibility of research
and operations for the implementation of the future seamless GDPFS.
The implementation of future GDPFS is an extremely complex undertaking requiring ongoing

consultation among regional associations, technical commissions, GDPFS Producing Centres,
NMHSs, academia and other partners to stay abreast of evolving science and technology to
regularly refine and adapt implementation plans and activities indicating a clear need for
dedicated resources to ensure timely and effective implementation.
GDPFS needs to evolve, similar to its sister programmes within the World Weather Watch
(WWW) Programme, which have evolved respectively from the Global Telecommunication
System (GTS) into WMO Information System (WIS) and from the Global Observing System
(GOS) into WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS).
Decision 41 (EC-70)
Space weather linkage with the WMO Strategic Plan
The Executive Council decides that, CBS, in coordination with CAeM, develops a new “Four-
Year Plan for WMO Coordination of Space Weather Activities” for tabling at Cg-18 (2019) for its
approval.
Decision justification: Resolution 38 (Cg-17) requested the finalization of the “Four-Year

Plan (2016–2019) for WMO Coordination of Space Weather Activities” which was approved by
Decision 33 (EC-68) which also requested the Secretary-General to submit to the Eighteenth
World Meteorological Congress (Cg-18) a report on the results achieved and a proposal for
future activities in this domain. A new WMO Strategic Plan was developed and there is a
requirement to update the current Space Weather Plan to be in line with it.
Note: See EC-70/INF. 8.4 for more information

Decision 42 (EC-70)
WMO High-mountain Summit 2019
(1) To organize a WMO High-mountain Summit in February 2019, with the goal of framing the
WMO high-mountain agenda for the next financial period, and make recommendations to
Congress with advise from EC-PHORS;
(2) To request EC-PHORS to facilitate the execution of this Decision, to engage with CCl, CHy,
CBS, regional associations, and partner organizations with regard to high-mountain region
activities, and to develop relevant recommendations to Congress and EC-71 for framing the
WMO high-mountain agenda in the next financial period.
See EC-70/INF. 9 for more information.
Decision justification: We are experiencing unprecedented rates of change of weather,

water, climate and cryosphere at various time scales in high-mountain regions. In this context,
it is important for WMO to be able to understand and predict such changes in these regions and
beyond in order for the Organization to be able to deliver and enhance services addressing the
impact of such changes on the availability of water resources and food security, and climate
risks and resilience. While the importance of observations, research, and services components
in the High-Mountain regions is recognized, the goal of framing such activities is to promote
long term support from governments in high-mountain regions in the view to improve provision
of socioeconomic benefits focusing on water resources and climate risk and resilience.
Decision 43 (EC-70)
Proposal for the declaration of 2020 as the United Nations International Year of Snow
and Ice
The Executive Council decides to support the proposed initiative of Iceland for the
designation by the United Nations of the year 2020, as an United Nations (UN) International
Year of Snow and Ice, as a coordination mechanism for increasing the focus and sustaining the
awareness and understanding of the importance of snow and ice in the climate system and of
the implications of impending changes in the Earth’s cryosphere for human societies;
Invites EC PHORS, Technical Commissions, and Regional Associations to use the opportunity of
the UN International Year of Snow and Ice to collaborate on specific and relevant actions aligned
with WMO strategic objectives;
Invites Members to support the further development and refinement of activities and
objectives that contribute to this initiative;
Requests the Secretary-General to contribute to consultations with a view of submitting to

the General Assembly of the United Nations a timely proposal for declaring the year 2020 as
the International Year of Snow and Ice, in collaboration with Iceland, UNESCO IHP, and other
interested Members.
WMO has already acknowledged that unprecedented changes in the Earth´s cryosphere have
ramifications that extend well beyond the areas where snow and ice are present, posing serious
threats to water resources and ecosystems, and in many cases changing the appropriate design
and operating assumptions of societal infrastructure. As a result, WMO has assumed an active
leadership role on bringing together the operational and scientific communities regarding arctic
and high mountain environments, through its existing working programmes and projects, and
has been granted Observer status with the Arctic Council.
The International Year of Snow and Ice will provide a mechanism to continue the support to
priority activities, within the WMO Strategic Plan, addressing the UN Sustainable Development
Goals.
Decision 44 (EC-70)
Memorandum of understanding between WMO and the Scientific Committee on

Antarctic Research and the International Arctic Science Committee
The Executive Council decides to request the Secretary-General to explore signing a

Memorandum of Understanding between WMO, SCAR and IASC in order to enhance cooperation
on a number of scientific, observational, services and policy-relevant activities in the polar
regions.
Decision justification: This is in recognition that WMO already works in partnership

with both the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) and the International Arctic
Science Committee (IASC) on a number of issues (see examples in EC-70/INF. 9). Also previous
MoUs have existed between SCAR, IASC and the WMO/IOC-UNESCO/ICSU World Climate
Research Programme. Finally, potential exists for stronger cooperation between WMO, SCAR
and IASC on a number of scientific, observational, services, and policy-orientated activities, for
example with regards to the design and implementation of the Polar Regional Climate Centres,
the Global Cryosphere Watch, co-design of future scientific activities and further collaboration in
polar policy fora, in particular the Arctic Council and Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings.
Decision 45 (EC-70)
Polar Space Task Group
(1) To endorse, as a priority of the Panel of Experts for Polar and High-mountain Observations,
Research, and Services (EC PHORS), conducting a gap analysis of the availability and
requirements for observing critical Earth System parameters required for monitoring polar
and high-mountain regions, and other relevant cryospheric ecosystems (e.g. lake and river
ice), both, in situ and remotely sensed observations, as a collaborative effort of the Polar
Space Task Group (PSTG), the Global Cryosphere Watch, and technical commissions, in
particular CBS and JCOMM;
(2) To request EC-PHORS that PSTG undertake an assessment of currently available space
cryosphere products in the polar and high-mountain regions, with a view of extending its
mandate and membership (e.g. other space agencies), to address gaps, especially in high-
mountain areas;
(3) That on the basis of these analyses, EC-PHORS reviews and updates the Terms of
Reference of PSTG and its membership, for consideration by Cg-18.
Decision justification: The mandate of the Polar Space Task Group (PSTG) is to provide
coordination across Space Agencies to facilitate acquisition and distribution of fundamental
satellite datasets, and to contribute to or support the development of specific derived products
for cryospheric scientific research and applications in polar regions (Resolution 16 (EC-69)).
Recently, requirements have emerged for similar products over high mountains.
Decision 48 (EC-69) defined high-mountain regions as “mountain areas where seasonal or

perennial cryosphere is present and poses potential and serious risks to society related to water
scarcity and disaster resilience”.
Given the societal importance of high-mountain ice, snow, glaciers, an extension of the PSTG
mandate is recommended. A key challenge remains as there are observing capability gaps over
high-mountain regions. The full engagement of Agencies active in the high-mountain areas,
along with specific commitments of satellite resources are needed, to address well-defined
objectives.
The reviewed mandate of PSTG would complement the mandates of other polar and high-
mountain activities, e.g. the Global Cryosphere Watch, in achieving the strategic observations
and services objectives for polar, high-mountain regions, with a focus on cryosphere.
Decision 46 (EC-70)
Antarctic Observing Network
(1) To approve the inclusion of the stations listed in the Annex to the present decision, in the
existing Antarctic Observing Network (AntON);
(2) To requests the Secretary-General to ensure adequate support within the allocated budget
for the execution of this decision.
– Decision 47 (EC-69) – Antarctic Observing Network
– Resolution 41 (Cg-17) – Antarctic Observing Network
The recommendations of the eighth session of the Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar
and High-mountain Observations, Research, and Services (EC-PHORS-8) (Levi, Finland, 21–
23 March 2018), regarding the Antarctic Observing Network.
Antarctic Observing Network
These stations are included in 2018 in the Antarctic Observing Network (AntON), established
through Resolution 41 (Cg-17)
WMO ID Station Operator Program Affiliation

87938 Ushuaia Aero Argentina GOS, CLIMAT(C), RBCN,
RBSC(S)
87925 Rio Gallegos Aero Argentina GOS, GSN, CLIMAT(C), RBCN,
RBSC(S)
87934 Rio Grande B.A. Argentina GOS, CLIMAT(C)
0-20000-0-85934 Punta Arenas Chile CTBTO, GOS, GSN, GUAN,
CLIMAT(C), RBCN, RBSN(ST)
Note:
CTBTO: Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization
GAW: Global Atmosphere Watch
GOS: WMO World Weather Watch Global Observing System
GUAN: GCOS Upper-Air Network
LALINET: Latin America Lidar Network
NDACC: Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change
RBCN: Regional Basic Climatological Network
RBSN(ST): Regional Basic Synoptic Network
Decision 47 (EC-70)
Polar Regional Climate Centres and Regional Climate Outlook Forums
(1) To endorse the implementation plan of the Arctic Regional Climate Centre Network
(ArcRCC-Network);
(2) To note the commencement of the demonstration phase of ArcRCC-Network in May 2018

and invite Members to support its operations, use its services and provide feedback;
(3) To note with appreciation the successful organization and outcomes of the first Pan-
Arctic Regional Climate Outlook Forum (PARCOF-1) in May 2018 at Ottawa, Canada, and
encourage ArcRCC-Network to lead and sustain PARCOF operations on a regular basis;
(4) To endorse the structure of the Third Pole RCC-Network (TPRCC-Network) based on
geographical distribution of responsibilities with three nodes, namely Northern Node
led by China, Southern Node led by India and Western Node led by Pakistan, and invite
the President of Regional Association II to facilitate the development of a detailed
implementation plan under the guidance of EC-PHORS, CCl and CBS and commencement of
a demonstration phase;
(5) To endorse the initiatives to develop an Antarctic RCC-Network (AntRCC-Network) through

a survey and scoping process, and invite the support of the concerned Members and
other relevant stakeholders, for example the Antarctic Treaty and its Committee for
Environmental Protection;
(6) To request CCl and CBS to adequately take into account the requirements of Polar RCCs
while reviewing and updating RCC functions, products and criteria, in consultation with EC-
PHORS, GCW and JCOMM.
Decision justification: As a follow-up to Decision 46 (EC-69) on Development and

Implementation of the Arctic Polar Regional Climate Centre Network and of Polar Regional
Climate Outlook Forums, the EC-PHORS has finalized the implementation plan of the Arctic
RCC-Network in consultation with the relevant stakeholders, and also agreed on a roadmap to
the implementation of RCC-Networks in the Antarctic and Third Pole regions. Environment and
Climate Change Canada hosted the inaugural session of PARCOF at Ottawa, Canada, on 15–
16 May 2018, and the demonstration phase of ArcRCC-Network was launched on the occasion. A
Scoping Meeting of the representatives of Members from the Third Pole region, held at Geneva
on 27–28 March 2018, agreed on the structure for TPRCC-Network based on geographical
distribution of responsibilities among China, India and Pakistan, with China as the overall
coordinating node. EC-PHORS, at its eighth session in March 2018, agreed on a survey to be
conducted to determine the needs and capacities for an RCC implementation in the Antarctic,
followed by a scoping workshop to determine the suitable structure for AntRCC-Network. CCl,
at its seventeenth session in April 2018, adopted Resolution 5.1/1 (CCl-17) on enhancing WMO
Regional Climate Centre operations to revisit RCC functions and propose suitable updates and
revisions.
Decision 48 (EC-70)
WMO Global Campus initiative
The Executive Council decides to endorse the WMO Global Campus initiative for developing
a coordinated and collaborative network of institutions that work together to meet the growing
education and training needs of WMO Members, building upon the existing network of WMO
Regional Training Centres (RTCs) and other WMO training partners.
Given significant progress demonstrated by the feasibility study as reported in EC-70/INF. 11.1,
the strong endorsement of the 2017 Symposium on Education and Training (SYMET-13), and the
recommendation of the EC Panel of Experts on Education and Training.
See EC-70/INF. 11.1 for the Report of the twenty-eighth Meeting of the EC Panel of Experts on
Education and Training.
See EC-70/INF. 11.1 for the Status Report on the WMO Global Campus Feasibility Study, as well
as the WMOLearn portal (http://learn.wmo.int).
Decision 49 (EC-70)
Governance of education and training
The Executive Council decides to recommend to Congress that the governance of capacity
development including education and training is given adequate consideration in the context
of the WMO reform process taking into consideration previous work and the current Terms of
Reference of both the EC Panels on Education and Training and Capacity Development.
In this regard, EC also requests the Secretary-General to strengthen the Organization’s support
to fellowships and continuing education and to capacity development overall, so as to provide
a strong basis for strengthening the capacity of Members and in particular to focus also on
Leadership and Management skills as well as technical skills.
Decision justification: The WMO Regional Associations have responded by noting a large
number of capacity development priorities. See also recommendations within EC-70/INF. 11.1,
the Report of the twenty-eighth Meeting of the EC Panel of Experts on Education and Training.
Decision 50 (EC-70)
Nominal allocation of the Voluntary Cooperation Programme Trust Fund for 2018
Noting the VCP Report for 2018 as contained in the Report of the Informal Planning
Meeting of the VCP which can be found at: http://www-newdev.wmo.int/pages/prog/dra/vcp/
eventsandmeetings.php.
Decides to approve the proposed provisional allocation for the VCP‑TF for 2018 as provided in
the Annex to this decision.
Decision justification: The Voluntary Cooperation Programme reached its 50th year of
operation in 2017 and the Executive Council expressed its appreciation to VCP donors members
for the invaluable efforts in supporting the Members through the VCP that clearly remains an
important delivery mechanism for capacity development support to Members. According to the
Rules of the Voluntary Cooperation Programme, priority areas and nominal allocation of the
fund should be proposed for approval by the Executive Council.
VCP Trust Fund 2018
Nominal Allocation
VCP Trust Fund 2018 (USD)
2018
Balance at 01/01/18 190,000
Anticipated Contributions 2018 100,000
Anticipated Available 2018 290,000*

Nominal Allocation
VCP Trust Fund 2018 (USD)
2018
Priority Areas
1 Spares/shipping 5,000
2 Expert services 50,000
3 (Short-term) fellowships and training activities 20,000
4 Improvement of Observing Systems 25,000
5 Agricultural meteorology activities 20,000
6 Support to CDMS and climatological activities 20,000
Institutional Strengthening (Legal & Strategic

7 50,000
Plans)
10 Sub Total 190,000
11 Reserve 100,000
* Supplemented by XB Projects also
Decision 51 (EC-70)
Drafting Team on Preparation of a Policy Act on Public–Private Engagement for

consideration by the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress
Establishes a Drafting Team to prepare a draft text of a high-level policy document

(Declaration or Resolution) for consideration by the 18th Congress reflecting the WMO position,
policy and guidance on the Global Weather Enterprise and the public-private engagement in the
light of the global developments outlined in the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development 2030,
the Paris Agreement and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction,
Designates Dr Michael STAUDINGER as a chairperson and Celeste SAULO, Phil EVANS, Louis
UCCELLINI, Jean-Marc LACAVE, Kanduri RAMESH, Toshihiko HASHIDA, David GRIMES as core
members of the Drafting Team, and authorizes the chairperson to invite additional experts
to assist the work of the Team as necessary, including the designate regional focal points on
public-private engagement as well as a representative of the private sector through HMEI,
Requests the chairperson to initiate the work of the Drafting Team as soon as possible and
to deliver a first draft, in consultation with EC WG/SOP, based on the outline provided in the
Annex, by 30 September 2018 to be circulated to the EC members for review and comments,
followed by preparation of a EC-endorsed draft for consultation with Members,
Acknowledges the need for building a global consensus on the high-level policy act prior to
the 18th Congress, therefore
Agrees that the EC-endorsed draft should be circulated to all Members for consultation not
later than 31 December 2018,
Tasks the Drafting Team, supported by the Secretariat, to process the comments received
during the consultation process and prepare the final draft in time for submission to the 18th
Congress,
Requests the Secretary-General to provide support to the Drafting Team, and to ensure full
transparency of the process to all GWE players.
Decision justification: Follow up of Decision 61 (EC-69), Public-Private Engagement: A

road map to the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress.
Declaration of the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress
We, the delegates from 191 Member States and Territories of the World Meteorological
Organization (WMO), meeting in Geneva from XX to XX June 2019 at the Eighteenth World
Meteorological Congress, declare as follows:
We NOTE [global agenda drivers – UN SDG, Sendai Framework, Paris agreement and their call
for engagement with private sector, academia and society and the role of WMO and NMHSs in
achieving the global agenda goals];
We FURTHER NOTE [other drivers – science and technology, stress on public funding, growing
demand from business for decision-support service, etc. ];
We RECOGNIZE [the Earth system approach and the evolving WMO flagship programmes, etc.
];
We FURTHER RECOGNIZE [acknowledgement of the existence of a global weather enterprise

as a multi stakeholder composite which is rapidly growing];
We ACKNOWLEDGE [possibilities and opportunities for increase socioeconomic benefits

through partnerships in the GWE context];
We REAFFIRM [the vital importance of the mission of the National Meteorological and
Hydrometeorological Services in observing and understanding weather and climate and in
providing meteorological and related services in support of national needs];
We WELCOME [possibilities and opportunities for increase socioeconomic benefits through

partnerships with private sector, academia and community-based players in the GWE context];
We ACKNOWLEDGE THE NEED [for development of adequate principles, governance and

continuous dialogue between the GWE stakeholders to ensure its growth and sustainability,
while maintaining to key role of the NMHSs];
We APPEAL to all Governments [to ensure that the national practices in force in their countries
will conform with the agreed policies, practice and guidelines for the international exchange of
meteorological and related data and products];
We RECOGNIZE [national and regional variations and the primacy of the national legal
frameworks, at the same time calling for further exchange of best practice and harmonization];
We URGE [that whatever form or model the National Meteorological and Hydrometeorological
Services take, government financial support be provided to operate and maintain the required
relevant basic infrastructure, monitoring and services in the national and global public interest,
and that such support be strengthened where needed, including through effective PPP];
We CALL on all Governments [to give due consideration to the statements expressed in this
Declaration. We believe that this will be in the interest of sustainable development, in support
of national economies and social progress and that this contributes significantly to the reduction
of loss of life and property caused by natural disasters and other catastrophic events, as well
as to safeguard the environment and the global climate for present and future generations of
humankind].
Decision 52 (EC-70)
Adoption of working arrangements with the Association of Hydro-Meteorological

Equipment Industry and granting consultative status to the International Forum of
Meteorological Societies
Noting that HMEI had been granted consultative status by its fifty-fourth session (2002)
and that since then the two organizations had exercised a productive and mutually-beneficial
cooperation,
Considering the growing need for public-private engagement which requires more specific
working arrangements with the organizations representing the industry,
Noting with appreciation that the HMEI Council at its meeting on 9 May 2018, had approved
Working Arrangements between the HMEI and WMO, recognizing WMO as an international
standardization body,
Approves the Working Arrangements as presented in the Annex to this decision,
Requests the Secretary-General to inform HMEI about this decision and to arrange a
respective amendment to the WMO Basic Documents No. 3, Agreements and Working
Arrangements with International Organizations (WMO-No. 60),
Noting further the request of the International Forum of Meteorological Societies (IFMS) for
granting consultative status with WMO,
Acknowledging that the objectives and scope of activities of the IFMS aimed at building
cooperation between the professional societies, fostering and encouraging communication and
exchange of knowledge, ideas and resources, are coherent with the established common basis
of cooperation with international non-governmental organizations interested in the activities of
the WMO,
Grants the IFMS consultative status with WMO under the definition of Consultative Status
in WMO Basic Documents No. 3, Agreements and Working Arrangements with International
Organizations (WMO-No. 60), Chapter VI;
Requests the Secretary-General to inform IFMS of this decision and to arrange a respective
amendment to the WMO Basic Documents No. 3, Agreements and Working Arrangements with
International Organizations (WMO-No. 60).
Decision justification: See the Annex to the present decision.
Working arrangement between the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the
Association of the HydroMeteorological Equipment Industry (HMEI)
Introduction
The working arrangement concluded between the World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
and the international Association of the HydroMeteorological Equipment Industry (HMEI) was
approved on behalf of the WMO by the Executive Council at its seventieth session in June 2018
and on behalf of the HMEI by its Chairman on the basis of HMEI Council decision in 9 May 2018.
Working Arrangement
1. Background
1.1 The international Association of the HydroMeteorological Equipment Industry (HMEI) and
the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) have been working in close cooperation since
the granting of consultative status to HMEI by the WMO Executive Committee at its fifty-fourth
session in 2002.
1.2 This Working Arrangement between WMO and HMEI aims to strengthen the cooperation
between the two organizations regarding matters related to technology of hydrometeorological
measurement equipment and systems, service provision and delivery, related development of
standards and recommended processes, and implementation guidance. The arrangement also
covers cooperation in promotion and development of effective partnerships between the public
and private sector, with support from academia, aimed at enhanced sustainability, quality and
efficiency of data, information and services provided at national, regional and global levels.
2. Consultation and collaboration
2.1 The two Organizations, with a view to facilitating the attainment, in the most effective
and economical manner, of the objectives set forth in their respective constitutions, will act in
close cooperation and will consult together regularly on matters of common interest, and each
Organization will keep the other informed of all developments in regard to any of its current or
projected activities in which the other Organization may have an interest.
2.2 Subject to their respective rules and procedures, and within the limits of their responsibility
and available resources, WMO and HMEI will share with each other relevant information
regarding their respective work programmes addressing meteorological, climatological,
hydrological, marine and related environmental observing systems, information products and
services.
2.3 Each Organization may invite a representative or representatives of the other to participate
in sessions or meetings of its constituent bodies, committees or working groups, when items
on the agenda are of interest to the other Organization and, subject to such preliminary
consultation as may be necessary, each Organization may include, on such agenda, items
proposed by the other Organization.
2.4. When appropriate and subject to mutual agreement, joint working groups of the two
Organizations may be established to deal with matters of common interest.
3. Scope of Application
3.1 Development of standards and promotion of compliance
3.1.1 The WMO and HMEI will collaborate in the development of draft standards and
recommended practices for promulgation in the WMO technical regulations. HMEI will be
encouraged to nominate experts to participate and contribute to the work of relevant WMO
technical commissions and their expert bodies responsible for development and maintenance of
the WMO technical regulations.
3.1.2 HMEI will promote compliance with relevant WMO technical standards to its industry
members. It will also provide an industry perspective and feedback on the applicability,
relevance and other implementation aspects to help in the continuous improvement of the
standards and regulations promulgated by the WMO.
3.2 Guidance on technical specifications and project design
3.2.1 The WMO and HMEI will coordinate the development of standardized technical
specification outlines related to development and modernization projects planned for
implementation by WMO Member countries and funded through development and other financial
agencies.
3.2.2 The WMO and HMEI will promote service-oriented project design with assurance
of sustainability of the investments into national infrastructure and contributing to the
enhancement of WMO Members’ capacity to deliver services.
3.3 Public-Private Partnership
3.3.1 The WMO and the HMEI will collaborate to promote and encourage, through their
respective memberships, the utilization of mutually beneficial public-private partnership
arrangements aimed at assisting WMO Member countries to produce and make available high-
quality data and services fit-for-purpose to support sustainable development. In doing this,
both organizations will accord high priority to developing sustainable and affordable solutions to
meet the capacity needs of the Least Developed Countries, Small Island Developing States, and
countries in post-crises situations.
3.3.2 The WMO and the HMEI subject to available resources will collaboratively develop
educational and promotional material on the modalities of public-private partnership, providing
practical guidance on their implementation and highlighting related socioeconomic benefits.
3.3.3 The WMO and the HMEI will collaborate in the establishment of a Code of Ethics, aligned
with relevant UN partnership principles and guidance, such as the Global Compact, for all
stakeholders of the weather enterprise and will promote its enactment through their respective
memberships.
4. General provisions
4.1 Any dispute between the Parties concerning the interpretation or application of this
Working Arrangement which cannot be settled amicably would, at the request of either
Party, be settled by arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration Rules of the United Nations
Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL).
4.2 This Working Arrangement may be amended by the Parties at any time. Any such
amendment shall be agreed by mutual consent and will be effected by an exchange of letters.
4.3 This Working Arrangement may be supplemented by additional arrangements between the
Parties. These additional arrangements will be in writing and fully respect the provisions of this
Working Arrangement.
4.4 Each Party will appoint a Representative who will coordinate relations with the other Party,
including between technical experts of the Parties, and who will keep the Head of his or her
organization informed. Any change of Representative will be communicated in writing to the
other Party.
4.5 This Working Arrangement will enter into force the date after both Parties have signed it
and shall remain in force for a period of four years. It may thereinafter be renewed in writing,
each time for a period of four years.
4.6 Notwithstanding the above Section 4.5, this Working Arrangement may be terminated by
either Party at any time by giving at least six (6) months prior written notice to the other Party.
4.7 Nothing contained in this Working Arrangement will be deemed a waiver of any of the
privileges or immunities enjoyed by WMO.
Done in duplicate in the English language.
Signed on behalf of the association of the Signed on behalf of the

HydroMeteorological Equipment Industry World Meteorological Organization
(HMEI) (WMO)
_______________________________ _______________________________
Mr. Brian Day Prof. Petteri Taalas

Chairman Secretary-General
Done in Geneva, the (date) Done in Geneva, the (date)
Decision 53 (EC-70)
WMO engagement in global and regional private initiatives
The Executive Council decides that in cases of proposed collaborative partnerships on global
and regional initiatives with private companies, such as the Google Flood Initiative, the following
principles should be observed in considering WMO involvement:
(1) All decisions should be based on the high-level policy on public-private engagement (PPE)
to be considered by Cg-18 and related existing policies such as Resolutions 40 (Cg-XII), 25
(Cg-XIII) and 60 (Cg-17) on data sharing and exchange;
(2) The full spectrum of other similar initiatives developed by WMO Members or regional
grouping of Members should be taken into consideration, in coordination with the regional
associations concerned, to explore possible synergies and potential conflicts;
(3) The relevant technical body of WMO should review and evaluate the proposal from a
technical and scientific perspective and provide advice on its feasibility and potential
impacts;
(4) Special attention should be paid to self-protecting measures to mitigate reputational risk
and misuse of WMO organizational identity;
(5) The final decision on WMO level of engagement will be taken by the Executive Council
based on the analysis of (1) to (4) above. Should the timescales require a decision within
the intersessional periods between EC meetings, the President may take this decision on
behalf of the Executive Council in accordance with general regulation 9(5).
The Executive Council requests the Secretary-General to further develop this decision
making process in the context of the planned PPE Declaration and report back to the Executive
Council.
Google launched the Google Flood Forecasting Initiative with a view to develop scalable, high
spatial resolution and high precision flood forecasting systems. The system will be based on
Google machine learning capacity. Google intend to make their forecast products publicly
available for free.
They are already working on river discharge estimation using remote sensing (data generation)
as well as hydrologic and hydrodynamic modelling.
Google is willing to collaborate with governments to improve flood forecasting services in

relevant regions and is seeking the support of WMO for technical exchanges and for sharing
available hydrometeorological data, for the benefit of WMO Members. Their hydrological know-
how is limited but evidently their IT and financial resources are immense, so it is suggested to
drive the process rather than responding to independent developments.
Possible areas of collaboration could be:

– Definition of project goals, products and services that would have the greatest impact on
reducing fatalities and flood-related damages, and would be most useful for governmental
and international organizations in dealing with floods;
– Definition of data requirements for hydrological models, and access to existing near-real-
time and historical hydrological data;
– Improvement of hydrological modelling;
– Collaboration with governments and local institutions.
Decision 54 (EC-70)
Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development
(1) To thank the IOC Chairperson, Professor Peter Haugan, for his excellent presentation on
the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (20212030);
(2) To ensure WMO contribution, within existing structures and available resources, to the
Decade as it would be beneficial to all Members dependent on marine and maritime
economy or exposed to coastal and marine hazards, in particular Small Island Developing
States and Member Island Territories and coastal least developed and developing
countries;
(3) To endorse WMO voluntary commitments registered at the 2017 Ocean Conference
as WMO contributions in support to Sustainable Development Goal 14 – Conserve and
sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development:
(a) International Network for Multi‐Hazard Early Warning Systems (IN‑MHEWS) and
Global Multi-hazard Alert System, noting the need to strengthen coordination efforts
between IOC Intergovernmental Coordination Groups for the Tsunami Warning and
Mitigation Systems and WMO initiatives to address coastal hazards;
(b) Responding to El Niño: improving international coordination for improved early

warning;
(c) Weather and climate services for African, Caribbean and Pacific SIDS;
(d) Year of Polar Prediction;
(4) To underline the importance of science in Polar and tropical seas to better understand
the dynamics of the global ocean and atmospheric phenomena, noting the contribution of
observation campaigns such as the “Years of the Maritime Continent”;
(5) To foster a continuous research-to-operations-to-services value chain to support seamless

Earth system forecasting, involving international organizations, government institutions,
academia and the private sector, including an enhanced constant interaction in science
between WMO and IOC supported by CBS and CAS and other technical commissions;
(6) To endorse the position paper “The ocean and WMO: ocean issues, opportunities and
priorities that contribute to the WMO Strategic Plan” (EC‑70/INF. 12.3) as a preliminary
contribution to the scoping exercise for WMO input to the Decade in the areas of services,
observation, research and capacity development;
(7) To request the Secretary-General to arrange for the representation of WMO expertise in
the planning group for the Decade and contribution to its co-design and implementation, in
particular through JCOMM and the co-sponsored programmes WCRP, GCOS and GOOS, and
based on the long-term goals and strategic objectives of the Strategic Plan;
(8) To confirm WMO commitment to interagency coordination and cooperation on ocean

matters, including through UN-Oceans;
(9) To encourage Members to participate in the consultation and implementation of the Decade
according to their national marine priorities;
(10) To recommend the inclusion in the agenda of the Eighteenth Congress of a dedicated
dialogue on WMO marine activities, including contribution to the Decade and the next
anticipated Ocean Conference in 2020.
Decision 55 (EC-70)
Implementation of WMO Gender Equality Policy and Action Plan
(1) Review the WMO Gender Equality Policy and WMO Gender Action Plan with a view to
assessing progress in their implementation and proposing necessary updates for adoption
by the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress (Cg-18);
(2) Request technical commissions and regional associations to appoint a member of their
management groups to serve as “a gender custodian” at constituent body sessions,
with the specific task of (a) screening the agenda and documentation, (b) identifying
relevant entry points for gender and diversity aspects, (c) ensuring their consideration
and discussion, and (d) liaising with the Chair of the Advisory Panel of Experts on Gender
Mainstreaming and the Secretariat on a continuous basis;
(3) Accelerate implementation of the WMO Gender Action Plan at the regional and national
levels through the active role of regional associations;
(4) Continue collecting good practice from Members on (a) attracting more girls and women
into science, (b) mainstreaming gender in organizational policies and practices, and
(c) making weather, hydrological and climate services more gender-sensitive for publication
on the dedicated WMO webpage;
(5) Invite Members to send their national and/or NMHS gender policies and action plans to the
Secretariat to be posted on the WMO gender webpage and to be used as a resource in the
review of WMO Gender Policy and Action Plan.
Decision justification: After four years of implementation, the WMO Gender Action
Plan needs updating based on progress achieved and gaps identified. Better coordination is
required among the Secretariat, constituent bodies and the EC Advisory Panel of Experts on
implementation of the Action Plan. The WMO Gender Equality Policy has to be examined to
ensure meeting the criteria of the UN System-Wide Action Plan (UN-SWAP) on gender equality
and the empowerment of women. Lastly, whereas gender has consistently been incorporated
in the agenda of constituent bodies, it is not sufficiently mainstreamed in the discussions and
technical documentation.
Decision 56 (EC-70)
Themes of World Meteorological Day for 2019 and 2020
The Executive Council decides, upon proposal by the President,
(1) That the themes of World Meteorological Day for 2019 and 2020 will be as follows:
2019: “The Sun, the Earth and the Weather”;
2020: “Climate and Water”, which will align with the theme of World Water Day 2020,
focusing on climate change and water;
(2) To invite Members to undertake activities to celebrate World Meteorological Day in 2019
and 2020 using the above themes;
(3) To take note of the preliminary proposal by the Secretary-General for the theme of
World Meteorological Day for 2021 to be “The ocean, our climate and weather”, in
conjunction with the launch of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable
Development;
(4) To invite the Secretary-General to confirm the above proposal with National WMO Focal
Points for Information and Public Affairs with a view to present it to the President for
approval after consultations with the Council and notification to Members.
Decision justification: Decision 63 (EC-69) – World Meteorological Day theme for 2019
The theme of World Meteorological Day since 1961 are available on the WMO website: WMD
themes since 1960s: https://public.wmo.int/en/resources/world-meteorological-day/previous
-world-meteorological-days.
Decision 57 (EC-70)
Reports of oversight bodies
(1) Note the report and endorse the recommendations of the Financial Advisory Committee
(FINAC) when making decisions on financial and budgetary matters under agenda
items 16.3 and 17.1 [EC-70/INF. 16.1(1)];
(2) Note the report and endorse the recommendations of the WMO Audit Committee when
dealing with respective matters [EC-70/INF. 16.1(2)];
(3) Note the report and to consider the recommendations of the External Auditor, in
accordance with Financial Regulation 15.10 when dealing with financial statements under
agenda item 17.1 [EC-70/INF. 16.1(3)];
(4) Note of the annual accountability report of the Internal Oversight Office in accordance with
Financial Regulation 13.10 [EC-70/INF. 16.1(4)];
(5) Endorse the proposed response to the recommendations of the Joint Inspection Unit (JIU)
addressed to the legislative bodies of WMO, as reviewed by the WMO Audit Committee, and
to note that JIU recommendations have been addressed appropriately by the Secretary-
General [EC-70/INF. 16.1(5)];
(6) Note the report of the Ethics Office [EC-70/INF. 16.1(6)].
Note: The reports of the oversight bodies will be presented to the Council by Chairs/Heads
of offices. Recommendations contained in the reports will be addressed by the Council
when dealing with relevant agenda items.
Decision 58 (EC-70)
WMO-IOC Consultation Group on the Reform of JCOMM
To propose that the groups and teams of the Joint WMO-IOC Technical Commission on
Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM) are co-sponsored from the WMO side by the
Commission for Observation, Infrastructure and Information System and the Commission for
Application and Services, and from the IOC side by relevant structures,
To propose the creation of a Joint WMO-IOC Committee for Oceanography and Meteorology
(JCOM), as a high-level coordination and integration mechanism with broader engagement of
the key relevant bodies of the WMO and IOC, with the terms of reference as given in the Annex
to draft Resolution xx/3 (Cg-18),
To invite governing bodies of IOC to join WMO in creating a joint consultation group, with the
terms of reference as provided by the annex to the present decision, with the goal of preparing
parallel resolutions for the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress (2019) and the Thirtieth
IOC Assembly (2019).
WMO-IOC Consultation Group on the Reform of JCOMM
Terms of Reference
(a) Examine the proposal for a creation of JCOM,
(b) Consult WMO Members and IOC Member States,
(c) Propose final Terms of References of JCOM,
(d) Identify working arrangements and sponsorship for all bodies presently in JCOMM, the
relationship between existing co-sponsored programmes (GCOS, GOOS, WCRP) and JCOM,
and any other jointly-undertaken work,
(e) Prepare a six-month transition plan for implementation in second half of 2019,
(f) Prepare parallel resolutions for the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress and Thirtieth
IOC Assembly by March 2019.
Membership
(a) For WMO:

(i) Representatives of Members appointed by the President,
(ii) Representatives of JCOMM (marine meteorology) and CBS;
(b) For IOC:

(i) Representatives of Member States appointed by the IOC Chairperson,
(ii) Representatives of JCOMM (oceanography), IODE, and TOWS-WG;
(c) Representatives of co-sponsored programmes (GCOS, GOOS, WCRP).

Working procedures
The group will be expected to work primarily by electronic means.
Two co-chairs representing the meteorological and oceanographic communities will be selected
by the group.
The co-chairs, in consultation with the group, may wish to invite other experts to participate in
the work of the group.
Decision 59 (EC-70)
Preparations for the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress
(1) The Eighteenth Congress to be held on 3–14 June 2019 (15 June reserved) followed by the
seventy-first session of Executive Council from 17–19 June 2019; preceded by the session
of the Financial Advisory Committee to be held on 1–2 June 2019,
(2) The provisional agenda for the Eighteenth Congress should be as shown in Annex 1 to the
present decision,
(3) The invitations to Congress should be extended to the United Nations, international
organizations and non-Member countries listed in Annex 2,
(4) To urge Members to include Directors/Heads of the Hydrological Service in national

delegations,
(5) The winner of the sixty-third IMO Prize shall be invited to deliver the IMO lecture,
(6) Parallel events should be organized and contribute to Congress deliberations: hydrological
assembly and public-private dialogue (in conjunction with the World Meteo Expo at
Palexpo),
(7) High-level segment could be structured around strategic and policy matters,
(8) The delegations to the Eighteenth Congress should be seated in alphabetical order of their
countries as spelt in French, starting from the front of the hall and beginning with “Q”,
(9) To entrust the President and the Secretary-General with finalizing the programme and
making arrangements for the Congress.
Provisional agenda for the Eighteenth Congress
1. AGENDA AND ORGANIZATION OF THE SESSION

1.1 Opening of the session
1.2 Approval of the agenda
1.3 Establishment of committees

1.4 Programme of work
1.5 Approval of the minutes
2. REPORTS
2.1 Report by the President of the Organization
2.2 Report by the Secretary-General
2.3 Reports by presidents of regional associations
2.4 Reports by presidents of technical commissions
3. STRATEGIC PLAN AND BUDGET 2020–2023
4. GOVERNANCE REVIEW
5. WEATHER, CLIMATE, HYDROLOGICAL AND RELATED ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

5.1 Multi-hazard early warning systems
5.2 Climate information and services
5.3 Hydrological services and support of sustainable water management
5.4 Weather information and services
5.5 Integrated weather, climate, hydrological and environmental services
6. EARTH SYSTEM OBSERVATIONS AND PREDICTIONS

6.1 WMO Integrated Global Observing System
6.2 WMO Information System
6.3 WMO Global Data Processing and Forecasting System
7. EARTH SYSTEM RESEARCH

7.1 Scientific knowledge of the Earth system
7.2 Science for service and predictive capabilities
7.3 Science for policy
8. CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT
8.1 Capability to provide and utilize essential services
8.2 Core competences and expertise
8.3 Development partnerships for investment
9. POLICY AND LEGAL MATTERS

9.1 Questions concerning the Convention
9.2 Membership of the Organization
9.3 Amendments to the General, Technical, Financial and Staff Regulations
9.4 Policy matters
9.5 Gender equality
9.6 Review of previous resolutions of Congress
10. ELECTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS

10.1 Appointment of the Secretary-General
10.2 Election of the President and Vice-Presidents of the Organization

10.3 Election of members of the Executive Council
11. DATE AND PLACE OF NEXT CONGRESS
12. CLOSURE OF THE SESSION
List of international organizations to be invited to the

Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress
ORGANIZATIONS WITHIN THE UN SYSTEM6
Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)
Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA)
Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)
Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)
Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC)
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations* (FAO)
Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC/UNESCO)
International Atomic Energy Agency* (IAEA)
International Civil Aviation Organization* (ICAO)
International Fund for Agricultural Development* (IFAD)
International Labour Organization (ILO)
International Maritime Organization* (IMO)
International Monetary Fund (IMF)
International Organization for Migration (IOM)
International Telecommunication Union* (ITU)
Joint Inspection Unit of the United Nations (JIU)
Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
United Nations Convention on Biodiversity (UNCBD)
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
United Nations Environment Programme* (UNEP)
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change* (UNFCCC)
United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat)
United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)
United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR)
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA)
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
United Nations University (UNU)
United Nations*(UN)
UN Women
Universal Postal Union*(UPU)
World Bank*
6
Regulation 131 (a) (2015 edition) requires that an invitation be sent to the United Nations. The organizations within
the UN system marked with an asterisk (*) have an agreement or a working arrangement with WMO, which provide
for reciprocal representation. They should, therefore, normally be invited to Congress.
World Food Programme (WFP)

World Health Organization*(WHO)
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
World Tourism Organization*(UNWTO)
World Trade Organization (WTO)
ORGANIZATIONS WITH AN AGREEMENT OR WORKING ARRANGEMENTS WITH WMO

PROVIDING FOR REPRESENTATION
Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP)

African Union (AU)
Agency for Air Navigation Safety in Africa and Madagascar (ASECNA)
Arab Centre for the Studies of Arid Zones and Dry Lands (ACSAD)
Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO)
Arab Organization for Agricultural Development (AOAD)
Assembly of French Speaking International Civil Servants (AFFOI)
Association of Hydro-Meteorological Equipment Industry (HMEI)Association of Private
Meteorological Services (PRIMET)
Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission (Helsinki Commission)
Caribbean Meteorological Organization (CMO)
Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC)
Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) Preparatory Commission
Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC)
Danube Commission
East African Community (EAC)
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF)
European Commission (EC)
Economic Interest Grouping for National Meteorological and Hydrological Services in Europe
(ECOMET)
European National Meteorological Services (EUMETNET)
European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN)
European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT)
European Space Agency (ESA)
Green Climate Fund (GCF)
Indian Ocean Commission (IOC)
Intergovernmental Council for Hydrometeorology of the Commonwealth of Independent States
(ICH CIS)
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
International Association for Urban Climate (IAUC)
International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM)
International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction(CIB)
International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES)
International Energy Agency (IEA)
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)
International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)
International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA)
International Mobile Satellite Organization (IMSO)
International Ocean Institute (IOI)
International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
International Science Council (ISC)**
International Seismological Centre (ISC)
International Space Environment Services (ISES)
International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics (IUGG)
Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ISESCO)
Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC)
League of Arab States (LAS)
Niger Basin Authority (NBA)

Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC)
Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF)
Pacific Community (SPC)
Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM)
Permanent Inter-State Committee on Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS)
Permanent Joint Technical Commission for Nile Waters (PJTC)
Permanent South Pacific Commission (CPPS)
South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP)
World Farmers’ Organization (WFO)
World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO)
World Organization for Animal Health(OIE)
**A new name following the merger, in July 2018, of the International Social Science Council
and the International Council for Science.
ORGANIZATIONS WITH CONSULTATIVE STATUS
The consultative status (Resolution 2 (EC-IV)) accords to a non-governmental international

organization entitlement to be represented by an observer without voting rights as sessions of
constituent bodies in conformity with Article 26 (b) and Resolution 2 (EC-IV).
International Association of Broadcast Meteorology (IABM)

International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (OGP)
International Astronautical Federation (IAF)
International Astronomical Union (IAU)
International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID)
International Federation of Airline Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA)
International Forum of Meteorological Societies (IFMS)
International Maritime Radio Committee (CIRM)
International Society of Biometeorology (ISB)
International Society of Soil Sciences (ISSS)
International Union of Radio Science (IURS)
Organization to the ETC Group-Action on Erosion Technology and Concentration (ETC Group)
World Energy Council (WEC)
World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA)
OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
African Centre of Meteorological Applications for Development (ACMAD)

African Development Bank (AfDB)
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Asian Disaster Reduction Centre (ADRC)
Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN)
Arctic Council Secretariat (ACS)
Committee on Earth Observations Satellites (CEOS)
Centro internacional para la investigación del fenómeno El Niño (CIIFEN)
Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA)
Comité Regional de Recursos Hidraulicos del Istmo Centroamericano (CRRH)
Communauté Economique des Etats de l’Afrique Centrale (CEEAC)
Coordination Group for Meteorological Satellites (CGMS)
Council for Europe (CE)
Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO)
European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPP)
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
European Co-operation in Science and Technology (COST)
European Meteorological Society (EMS)
Global Water Partnership (GWP)
Group on Earth Observations (GEO)

Inter-American Development Bank (IADB)
Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA)
Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
International Chamber of Shipping (ICS)
International Commission for the Hydrology of the Rhine Basin (CHR)
International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations (IAOPA)
International Crop Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)
International Research Institute for Climate and Society (IRI)
Latin American Energy Organization (OLADI)
Organization of American States (OAS)
Secretariat of the Antartic Treaty
Southern African Development Community (SADC)
The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)
World Aerospace Education Organization (WAEO)
World Water Council (WWC)
INVITATIONS GOVERNED BY RESOLUTION 39 (Cg-VII)
State of Palestine
INVITATIONS TO NON-MEMBER COUNTRIES
In accordance with Regulation 20 of the General Regulations, countries that are not Members
of WMO but are Members of the United Nations and countries that are neither Members of
WMO nor Members of the United Nations but have been accorded observer status by the United
Nations shall be invited to attend Congress as observers, provided that such countries maintain
Meteorological or Hydrometeorological Services. Invitations will be issued to the following non-
Member countries because of their status as Members of, or observers to, the United Nations:
Andorra
Equatorial Guinea
Grenada
Holy See
Liechtenstein
Marshall Islands
Nauru
Palau
San Marino
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
There are no other names of independent countries, for which prior approval of the WMO
Members is required, that were brought to the attention of the Secretary-General.
Decision 60 (EC-70)
Plan for funding liability for after-service health insurance
Recalling Decision 69 (EC-69) – Plan for Funding Liability for After-Service Health Insurance;
Noting that no new reports have been issued by the United Nations Working Group on ASHI
since February 2017;
Noting further that the liability for ASHI increased during 2017;
Decides to keep Decision 69 (EC-69) in force;
Requests the Secretary-General to:
(1) Develop cost-containment measures related to ASHI with urgency, regardless of the timing
of the final report of the UN Working Group on ASHI; and
(2) Propose recommendations to Congress which respond to the report of the UN Working
Group on ASHI.
FINAC-37 Recommendation 2 (EC-70/INF. 16.1(1))
EC-70/INF. 17.2 – Plan for Funding Liability for After-Service Health Insurance
EC-70/INF. 16.1(1) – Report of the thirty-seventh Meeting of the Financial Advisory Committee
Decision 61 (EC-70)
Revised salaries of ungraded officials
The Executive Council decides to set the net base salary for WMO ungraded officials with
retroactive effect from 1 January 2018 as follows:
Existing New
Provision (US$) Provision (US$)
Secretary-General 169,296 170,937
Deputy Secretary-General 155,398 156,905
Assistant Secretary-General 142,764 144,148
In December 2017, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted a new base salary scale
for the staff of the United Nations Common System in the Professional and higher categories,
which came into effect on 1 January 2018. This scale reflected an adjustment of 0.97 per cent,
which was implemented by increasing the base salary and commensurately decreasing post
adjustment multiplier points, resulting in no change in net take-home pay;
In accordance with Staff Regulation 3.1, the revised salary scale had been implemented in the
Secretariat in respect of staff members in grades P.1 to D.2;
Seventeenth Congress had decided to authorize the Executive Council to carry out any
adjustment of salary in respect of the Secretary-General, the Deputy Secretary-General and
the Assistant Secretary-General, which might become necessary if an increase in the salaries of
comparable United Nations staff occurred during the seventeenth financial period;
Comparable United Nations agencies, in particular the International Telecommunication Union

and the Universal Postal Union, had adjusted the salaries of their ungraded officials accordingly.
Decision 62 (EC-70)
Revised pensionable remuneration of ungraded officials
The Executive Council decides to set the level of annual pensionable remuneration for ungraded
officials with retroactive effect from 1 February 2017 and 1 February 2018 as follows:
Existing New
Provision (US$) Provision (US$)
Effective Effective
1 February 2017 1 February 2018
Secretary-General 336,941 363,912 369,221
Deputy Secretary-General 311,400 336,326 341,233
Assistant Secretary-General 288,180 311,248 315,789
In accordance with the provisions of Article 51(b) of the Regulations of the United Nations
Joint Staff Pension Fund, the scale of pensionable remuneration for the Professional and higher
categories should be adjusted on the same date as the net remuneration amounts of officials in
the Professional and higher categories in New York are adjusted and by a uniform percentage
equal to the weighted average percentage variation in the net remuneration amounts, as
determined by the International Civil Service Commission;
The International Civil Service Commission promulgated revised pensionable remuneration

scales for staff in the Professional and higher categories effective 1 February 2017 and
1 February 2018;
In accordance with the provisions of Article 25 (a) of the Regulations of the United Nations
Joint Staff Pension Fund, WMO contributes 15.8% of pensionable remuneration for each staff
member. Further considering that the additional annual cost of implementing the revised scales
effective 1 February 2017 and 1 February 2018 is US$ 11,845 and US$ 2,332 respectively;
Comparable United Nations agencies, in particular the International Telecommunication Union

and the Universal Postal Union, had adjusted the pensionable remuneration of their ungraded
officials accordingly.
Decision 63 (EC-70)
International Meteorological Organization Prize and other awards
(1) To award the sixty-third IMO Prize to Dr Antonio Divino Moura (Brazil);
(2) To invite Dr Moura to deliver a scientific lecture at the eighteenth session of the Congress;
(3) To award the 2018 WMO Research Award for Young Scientists to Chang-Eui Park (Republic
of Korea), Su-Jong Jeong, Manoj Joshi, Timothy J. Osborn, Chang-Hoi Ho, Shilong Piao,
Deliang Chen, Junguo Liu, Hong Yang, Hoonyoung Park, Baek-Min Kim and Song Feng
for the paper entitled “Keeping global warming within 1.5 C constrains emergence of
aridification” published in Nature Climate Change, 8 (2018): 70–74, doi.org/10.1038/s41558
-017-0034-4;
(4) To award the twenty-sixth Professor Dr Vilho Väisälä Award for an Outstanding Research
Paper on Instruments and Methods of Observation to Asko Huuskonen, Mikko Kurri
(Finland) and Iwan Holleman (Netherlands) for the paper entitled “Improved analysis of
solar signals for differential reflectivity monitoring” published in Journal of Atmospheric
Measurement Techniques, 31 (2016): 31833192, doi.org/10.5194/amt-9-3183-2016;
(5) To award the seventh Professor Dr Vilho Väisälä Award for the Development and
Implementation of Instruments and Methods of Observation in Developing Countries to Fan
Yang, XingHua Yang, Wen Huo, Mamtimin Ali, XinQian Zheng, ChengLong Zhou and Qing
He (China) for the paper entitled “A continuously weighing, high frequency sand trap: Wind
Tunnel and field evaluations” published in Geomorphology, 293 (April 2017): 84–92, doi
.org/10.1016/j.geomorph.2017.04.008.
Decision 64 (EC-70)
Designation of acting members of the Executive Council
The Executive Council decides to designate as acting members of the Executive Council,
Professor Sani Abubakar MASHI (Nigeria), to fill the position of Mr Daouda Konate (Côte
d’Ivoire), who became acting president of Regional Association I,
– Mr Jeremiah LENGOASA (South Africa), to replace Dr Linda Makuleni (South Africa),
– Dr Jaecheol NAM (Republic of Korea), to replace Mr KO Yunhwa (Republic of Korea),
– Mr Francisco DE ASSIS DINIZ (Brazil), to fill the position of Professor A. Celeste Saulo,
who was elected as Second Vice-President of WMO and also serves as Acting First Vice-
President of the Organization,
– Dr Ken TAKAHASHI GUEVARA (Peru), to fill the position of Dr Guillermo E. Navarro (Chile),
who was elected as president of RA III.
– Dr Arlene LAING (Ms) (British Caribbean Territories), to fill the position of Mr Tyrone
Sutherland (British Caribbean Territories), with effect from 27 June 2018,
– Mr Maxim YAKOVENKO (Russian Federation), to replace Mr Alexander Frolov (Russian

Federation),
– Mr Phil EVANS (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), to replace
Mr Robert Varley (United Kingdom), who was elected as First Vice-President of the
Organization, prior to his departure from the National Meteorological Service.
Based on the provisions of Article 4 (b) of the Convention, and Regulations 9 (2), 9 (4), 9 (5)
and 17 of the General Regulations, the President of the Organization, in consultation with the
presidents of Regional Associations and members of the Executive Council, have decided to
designate on an exceptional basis, as acting members of the Executive Council:
– Dr Árni SNORRASON (Iceland), in place of filling the seat of the First Vice-President of the
Organization, and
– Mr Franz UIRAB (Namibia), in place of filling the seat of the Third Vice-President of the
Organization, in the best interests of the Organization.
Decision 65 (EC-70)
Review of subsidiary bodies and other bodies reporting to the Executive Council
Audit Committee
(1) In accordance with the terms of reference of the WMO Audit Committee (Resolution 8
(EC-LXIII)):
(a) To appoint the following seven (7) members for a 3-year term:
Mr Tuncay Efendioglu (Turkey) – from 1 July 2018 – until 30 June 2021
Ms Elvira Lazzati (Argentina) – from 1 July 2018 until 30 June 2021
Mr Graham Miller (UK) – from 1 July 2018 until 30 June 2021
Mr Fetene Teshome (Ethiopia) – from 1 July 2018 until 30 June 2021
Ms Setsuko Yamazaki (Japan) – from 1 July 2018 until 30 June 2021
Mr Kamlesh Vikamsey (India) – from 1 March 2019 until 28 February 2022
Ms Caroline Najm (Canada) – from 13 June 2019 12 June 2022
(b) To establish a reserve in case of unexpected replacement in intersessional period
comprised of the following individuals:
Mr J. Graham Joscelyne (South Africa/USA), Ms Margaret Kireeta-Mwanja (Uganda),

Mr John (Jack) Hayes (USA), Mr Albert Martis (Curacao and Saint Maarten), Ms Irena
Petruskeviciene (Lithuania)
Joint Scientific Committee for the WCRP
(2) In accordance to the terms of reference of the Joint Scientific Committee for the WCRP
(Agreement between the World Meteorological Organization, the International Council
of Scientific Unions and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission on the World
Climate Research Programme):
(a) To approve that the JSC should consist of 15 members;

(b) To renew terms of appointment of the following six (6) current eligible JSC members
for a further 2-year term, 1 Jan 2019–31 Dec 2020: Mr Jens Christensen (Denmark),
Ms Helen Cleugh (Australia), Mr Masahide Kimoto (Japan), Ms Amanda Lynch (United
States of America), Mr Thomas Peter (Germany), and Mr Martin Visbeck (Germany);
(c) To approve the following nine (9) preferred candidates for appointment as new JSC
members for an initial 4-year term 1 Jan 2019–31 Dec 2022: Ms Lisa Alexander
(Australia), Mr Tercio Ambrizzi (Brazil), Ms Pascale Braconnot (France), Ms Susanna
Corti (Italy), Mr Pierre Friedlingstein (United Kingdom), Mr James Hurrell (United
States of America), Mr Pedro Monteiro (South Africa), Mr Krishnan Raghavan (India),
Mr Huijun Wang (China);
(d) To endorse the following three (3) preferred candidates in case JSC should be
maintained at 18 members: Ms Pandora Hope (Australia), Mr Igor Shkolnik (Russian
Federation), Mr Rowan Sutton (United Kingdom);
(e) To endorse the following three (3) scientists as alternates in case replacement is
needed during the next 2-years: Mr Venkatachalam Ramaswamy (United States of
America), Mr Detlef Stammer (Germany), Mr Ken Takahashi (Peru);
(f) To entrust the Secretary-General to establish the final list of new members for
appointment in consultation with IOC and ICSU.
(3) To make the following replacements and changes in the composition of subsidiary bodies of
the Council:
Working Group on Strategic and Operational Planning

J. Lengoasa to replace L. Makuleni
P. Evans to replace R. Varley
M. Yakovenko (new member)
K. Takahashi (new member)
Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction

S. Mashi to replace D. Konate
P. Evans to replace R. Varley
F. De Assis to replace C. Saulo
Task Team on Data Policy and Emerging Issues

F. Uirab (new member)
Panel of Experts on Polar and High Mountain Activities

M. Yakovenko to replace A. Frolov
G. Navarro (new member)
Expert from IOC (to be nominated)
Panel of Experts on Capacity Development

J. Nam to replace Y. KO
A. Laing to replace T. Sutherland
F. De Assis (new member)
ICG WIGOS Focal Points

A. Laing to replace T. Sutherland
Gender Mainstreaming Focal Points

S. Barrell, F. Branski, P. Evans, C. Saulo, J. Smith, M. Jean (President of CBS)
Constituent Bodies Reform Task Force (Resolution 36 (EC-70))

G. Adrian (Chairperson), M.L. Bah, P. Evans, D. Grimes, T. Hashida, A. Martis, G. Navarro ,
C.L. Wong, L. Uccellini, M. Yakovenko
Drafting Team on Preparation of a Policy Act on Public-Private Engagement

(Decision 51(EC-70))
M. Staudinger (Chairperson), C. Saulo, P. Evans, D. Grimes, T. Hashida, J. Lacave,
K. Ramesh, L. Uccellini
Task Force on Water (Resolution 18 (EC-70))

Á. Snorrason (Iceland) (Chairperson), K. Takahashi (Peru), K. Ramesh (India), J Zúñiga
(Costa Rica), J. Fenwick (New Zealand), A. Jenkins (United Kingdom), S. Otunga Koding
(South Sudan), President of CHy, President of CAS
(4) To designate the following members of EC committees:
Selection Committee for membership of the WMO Audit Committee

J.-M. Lacave (Chairperson), C.L. Wong, G. Navarro, A. Ghulam
Selection Committee for the membership of the JSC/WCRP

C. Saulo (Chairperson), J. Nam, L. Uccellini, A. Johnson
Selection Committee for the IMO Prize

G. Adrian (Chairperson), Y. Liu, A. Kijazi, K. Takahashi
Selection Committee for the Young Scientists Award

A. Martis (Chairperson), A. López, R. Philippe, K.J. Ramesh
Selection Committee for the Vaisala Award

T. Sutherland (Chairperson), S. Cau, K.J. Ramesh, Vice-president CIMO
WMO Staff Pension Committee

G. Navarro (Chairperson), L. Bah, J. Lengoasa
1. Designation of acting members of the Executive Council – (Decision 64 (EC-70)).
2. TOR of the Audit Committee – Resolution 8 (EC-LXIII)
3. MOU between WMO-IOC-ICSU on WCRP.
Decision 66 (EC-70)
Scientific lectures
Executive Council decides:
(1) To thank Mr McBean, the laureate of the sixty-second IMO Prize, for his lecture entitled
“Integrated Environmental Prediction – Addressing the 2030 Global Agenda”;
(2) To request the Secretary-General to arrange for the appropriate publication of the lecture.
APPENDIX 4. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION
Recommendation 1 (EC-70)
On the approach to cataloguing high-impact events
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 9 (Cg-17) – Identifiers for cataloguing extreme weather, water and climate
events, through which Congress decided to standardize information on weather, water,
climate, space weather and other related environmental hazards and risks, and develop
identifiers for cataloguing weather, water and climate extreme events,
(2) Decision 4 (EC-68) – Systematic characterization and cataloguing of extreme weather,

water and climate events and standardization of respective hazard information, which
established the WMO Inter-programme Task Team on Cataloguing Extreme Weather, Water
and Climate Events,
Noting with satisfaction the collaboration between the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS)
and the Commission for Climatology (CCl) in the organisation of an International Workshop
on Cataloguing and Managing Information on Extreme Weather and Climate Events, which
proposed an approach to cataloguing high-impact events consisting in assigning universally
unique identifiers to high-impact events. The Workshop also endorsed a living list of event
types,
Noting also the decision made by the Regional Association for Europe (RA VI) that National
Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) of Members and Regional Climate Centres
(RCCs) carry out a test phase of the proposed approach in collaboration with other stakeholders
in the Region,
Noting further the establishment of the Expert Team on Disaster Risk Reduction during
the fifth session of the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine
Meteorology (JCOMM),
Mindful of the importance of the test phase to develop guidance for Members on
implementation of the approach and to document its feasibility, including the requirements
for data collection, processing and dissemination, and of the collaboration between the
stakeholders, for ensuring a swift transition from the test to the operational phase,
Having examined the scientific and technical foundations of the proposed approach,
Having considered the recommendation of the Executive Council Working Group on Disaster
Risk Reduction to endorse the cataloguing approach and to consider the conclusion of the test
phase with further refinement, as necessary,
Requests the Secretary-General to provide the necessary support for conducting the test
phase and to facilitate the expert work during the test phase to be conducted during 2018‑2019;
Requests the Executive Council Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction:
(1) To assess the results of the test phase in RA VI and provide conclusions and
recommendations to fine-tune the approach and understand its implications for
coordination and operationalization;
(2) To formulate the final proposal to be submitted to Congress for consideration;
(3) To facilitate and support the implementation of the activities in other regional associations;
(4) To solicit the advice and support of technical commission expert teams, such as the newly
established JCOMM Expert Team on Disaster Risk Reduction, as appropriate;
Requests other regional associations to test the concept and provide feedback on the
outcomes to the Executive Council Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction;
Requests the Commission for Basic Systems, the Commission for Climatology, and the Joint
WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology to develop a
roadmap on the future operation and service for the Executive Council Working Group on
Disaster Risk Reduction;
Requests also the Commission for Basic Systems and the Commission for Climatology:
(1) To consider any feedback provided for consideration in updating high-impact event types
and their definitions, and in establishing criteria for what constitutes a high-impact event;
(2) To provide guidance as to whether events should be classified according to meteorological

criteria alone or in terms of impact;
(3) To provide guidance on how multi-hazard events should be handled;
Urges Members to contribute to the test phase on a voluntary basis in collaboration with World
Meteorological Centres, Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres, Regional Climate centres
and National Meteorological Centres of NMHSs;
Recommends that the proposed approach to cataloguing high-impact events provided in the
annex to the present recommendation, with the necessary refinement as per the conclusions
of the test phase and lessons learnt, be submitted to the Eighteenth World Meteorological
Congress for consideration and adoption.
Annex to Recommendation 1 (EC-70)
Approach to cataloguing high-impact weather, water and climate events
1. Overview of the approach
1.1 The approach centres on identifying events uniquely, while at the same time being
able to group together events which are hydrometeorologically related. The scheme involves
assigning a universally unique identifier (UUID) number to each event and incorporating the
UUID and key attributes of the event into a data record (Figure 1). The UUID is an ISO-standard
random number generated by a relevant national, regional or global authority. Key attributes
contained in the data record include information that defines the event, such as event start and
end times, spatial extent, and event type. Other attributes provide context such as description,
local identifier (e.g. local or regional names of storms), and links to other events (e.g. heavy rain
to tropical cyclone) which enables the clustering of events (e.g. events linked to other events)
into larger scale (synoptic) phenomena. Additional information about each event can be stored
in a separate database, also associated with the UUID, for storing relevant hydrometeorological
parameters (wind speeds, precipitation amounts, values of hydrometeorological indexes, etc.).
Importantly, authorities responsible for assessing and cataloguing information on loss and
damage would be able to use the same UUID to associate this type of non-hydrometeorological
information with the events as well.
1.2 The scheme also addresses the issue of events being associated with each other, e.g.
a cyclone, leading to heavy rain, strong winds, storm surge flooding and landslides. Each event
and sub-event can have its own UUID, yet incorporating the UUIDs of associated events in any
given event record allows the entire chain of events to be linked to each other, along with any
associated data.
APPENDIX 4. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION 237
Figure 1. Event record containing UUID and key event attributes

(attributes in red are mandatory entries)
2. Recording process and analysis
It is envisioned that the national meteorological and hydrological services record and conduct
post analysis for linking events into a hierarchical clustering from synoptic to meso- and local
scales. Partnerships with loss and damage database and social media (e.g. crowd sourcing)
stakeholders will be useful to verify and finalize event information (e.g. spatial area and/or
relationships among events cross-referenced in event records of each other).
3. Event types
A draft typology (reference: EC-70/INF. 3.1(3)) which lists types of events associated with
impacts has been compiled from authoritative WMO references and resource materials. The
typology contains an initial list of event types with which losses and damage are potentially
associated. The typology will be a standard living list that can be amended by countries and
regions through the appropriate WMO governance mechanism, such as the GDPFS.
Climate data modernization
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 34 (Cg-17) – Definition of standards for Climate Data Management Systems and
their reference in the WMO Information System,
(2) Resolution 60 (Cg-17) – WMO policy for the international exchange of climate data and
products to support the implementation of the Global Framework for Climate Services,
(3) Decision 15 (EC-69) – Strengthening regional- and global-scale Climate Services

Information System operations,
(4) Resolution 4 (CCl-17) – Climate data modernization,
Recalling further that the sixty-fifth session of the Executive Council had requested the
Commission for Climatology to work closely with other commissions and programmes to
move from a concept to the definition of a High-quality Global Data Management Framework
(Executive Council, Abridged Final Report of the Sixty-fifth Session (WMO-No. 1118), General
summary, 4.4.70),
Noting with satisfaction the progress made by the Commission for Climatology in guiding
Members on climate data-related issues, including specifications for climate data management
systems (CDMSs) (see Climate Data Management Systems Specifications (WMO-No. 1131)), and
the strategy concept for CDMSs,
Noting further the Commission for Climatology’s ongoing work on the High-quality Global Data
Management Framework for Climate, as formulated in Resolution 4 (CCl-17),
Having been informed on the progress made on the draft Manual on the High-quality Global
Data Management Framework for Climate (see EC-70/INF. 4.5(2)),
Taking note of the collaboration between the Global Climate Observing System and the
Commission for Climatology to develop guidance on the use of weather radar and lightning data
for climate applications that can be referred to in the Manual on the High-quality Global Data
Management Framework for Climate, as an emerging aspect of data management for climate,
Convinced of the importance of such a manual for guiding Members on standards and
recommended practices with regard to the management of climate data, including terminology,
definitions, dataset maturity assessment, data management operations, discovery and
exchange; and convinced also that these aspects should be described appropriately in the WMO
Technical Regulations,
Recommends to Congress draft Resolution XX/1 (Cg-18) – Manual on the High-quality

Global Data Management Framework for Climate, as provided in the annex to the present
recommendation;
Urges the president of the Commission for Climatology to arrange for completion of the final
draft of the manual, in collaboration with other technical commissions and programmes, to be
submitted to the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress for consideration;
(1) To arrange for the collection of Members’ feedback on the content of the reference Manual
on the High-quality Global Data Management Framework for Climate, after approval by the
president of the Commission for Climatology;
(2) To facilitate collaboration between the Commission for Climatology and other technical
commissions and programmes to finalize and submit the draft reference manual, after
considering Members’ feedback, with a view to adoption by the World Meteorological
Congress at its Eighteenth session.
Draft Resolution XX/1 (Cg-18)
Manual on High-quality Global Data Management Framework

for Climate
THE CONGRESS,
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 60 (Cg-17) – WMO Policy for the International Exchange of Climate Data and
Products to Support the Implementation of the Global Framework for Climate Services,
(2) Resolution 34 (Cg-17) – Definition of Standards for Climate Data Management Systems and
their reference in the WMO Information System,
(3) Decision 15 (EC-69) – Strengthening Regional and Global Scale Climate Services
Information System Operations,
(4) Resolution 4 (CCl-17) – Climate Data Modernization,
(5) Recommendation 2 (EC-70) – Climate data modernization,
Mindful of the increased emphasis given by the Members to climate data including its quality
and management as expressed at the Commission for Climatology since its 15th session when
CCl re-emphasized the critical and necessary collaboration of all Members to ensure high
quality, timely and accessible climate data from all possible sources and recommended the
development of a High Quality- Global Data Management Framework for Climate (HQ-GDMFC),
Recognizing:
(1) that the definitions of standards for climate data management should form an important
building block of a long-term modernization process for climate data and related
management practices and systems,
(2) the importance of capacity development needs and provision of guidance to enable
Members to fulfil their role in managing and exchanging the climate data that are required
for the implementation of climate services,
Recognizing further the growing need in providing standards and advising on recommended
practices for managing climate data from all available sources, including in-situ, remote sensing,
marine, hydrology and atmospheric data and ensuring its quality standards to support the
development on climate knowledge and informed policy making at global, regional and national
levels,
Noting the progress made by CCl in guiding Members on climate data including on Climate
Data Management Systems Specifications (WMO-No. 1131), the Strategy concept for CDMSs
and the CCl ongoing work on High Quality Global Data Management Framework for Climate (HQ-
GDMFC),
Welcoming Resolution 4 (CCl-17) on Climate Data Modernization, agreeing that a reference

Manual on HQ-GDMFC should be finalized,
Convinced of the importance of such a manual for guiding Members on standards and
recommended practices with regards to managing climate data, including on terminology,
definitions, dataset maturity assessment, data management operations, discovery and
exchange, and that these aspects should be described appropriately in the WMO technical
regulations,
Appreciating CCl efforts and its collaboration with other commissions and programmes for
finalizing the draft reference manual on HQ-GDMFC,
Approves the draft reference manual on High Quality Global Data Management Framework
for Climate (HQ-GDMFC) as provided in the annex to this Resolution for inclusion to the WMO
technical regulations;
Requests the Secretary-General to arrange for the publication of the reference manual on
HQ-GDMFC after ensuring compliance with WMO editing standards and practices and inform
Members on its formal release;
Requests the Commission for Climatology to oversee the update of the reference manual on
HQ-GDMFC;
Requests the Commission for Basic Systems to refer to the standards included in the reference
manual on HQ-GDMFC in other relevant technical regulations such as WIGOS, WIS and GDPFS
for ensuring consistency in the terminology, concepts and definitions of climate data and their
management.
Strengthening WMO contributions to the provision of climate information and services

in support of policy- and decision- making
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 4 (EC-XLI) – Global climate change,
(2) Resolution 15 (Cg-17) – World Climate Programme,
products to support the implementation of the Global Framework For Climate Services,
(4) Resolution 62 (Cg-17) – Relationship and interaction between the Intergovernmental Board
on Climate Services and WMO constituent bodies,
(5) Resolution 64 (Cg-17) – Development of a results-based framework for WMO support to

the implementation of the Global Framework For Climate Services,
(6) Decision 16 (EC-68) – Country-focused results-based framework and mechanism for WMO
contributions to the Global Framework for Climate Services,
(7) Decision 17 (EC-68) – WMO support to the implementation of activities of the

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change,
(9) Decision 11 (EC-69) – Implementation of the country-focused results-based framework and

mechanism for WMO contributions to the Global Framework For Climate Services,
Having considered the Commission for Climatology, Abridged Final Report of the Seventeenth
Session (WMO-No. 1216), particularly Recommendation 2 (CCl-17) – Strengthening the
integration and coordination of WMO contributions to the provision of policy- and decision-
supporting climate information and services, and Recommendation 3 (CCl-17) – Continuation
and strengthening of the work of the Commission for Climatology,
Noting the relevance of WMO climate science products to the implementation of the Global
Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) and to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
(IPCC) as well as to high-level climate-related policy processes such as the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Sustainable Development Goals and the Sendai
Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction,
Noting with satisfaction that WMO climate products such as the WMO Statement on the
State of the Global Climate, the El-Niño/La Niña Update, the Greenhouse Gas Bulletin and
other products under development, such as the Global Seasonal Climate Update, constitute
authoritative sources of information which support informed policy- and decision-making and
complement the IPCC assessment reports,
Recognizing:
(1) In this regard, the essential contributions of all four components of the World Climate
Programme (WCP), namely the World Climate Services Programme, the Global Climate
Observing System Programme, the World Climate Research Programme and the Global
Programme of Research on Climate Change Vulnerability, Impacts and Adaptation,
(2) The operational responsibilities of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services

(NMHSs) and regional and global centres constituting WMO infrastructure, and the key
roles of climate forums at the regional and national levels in convening stakeholders and
aligning their efforts,
(3) The particular roles of:
(a) The GFCS, in securing the engagement of international partner organizations in

support of improved country-level climate-related development outcomes,
(b) The IPCC, in organizing the scientific community’s efforts to provide scientific
assessments that inform the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change and other climate-related policy processes,
(c) The World Climate Research Programme, in facilitating the analysis and prediction
of climate system variability and change for use in an increasing range of practical
applications of direct relevance, benefit and value to society,
(4) The many contributions of WMO regional associations and technical commissions,
Recognizing further the continuing need for:
(1) Enhancing and synchronizing the efforts of operational WMO centres, including Regional
Climate Centres and Global Producing Centres, to support the delivery of services by
Members at country level,
(2) Ensuring global coordination of key climate-related processes such as regional and
national climate forums, exchange of data and products, translating research results into
operations, and developing and assembling inputs for policy-related products and services,
(3) Technical and scientific inputs for guiding and supporting the work of Members and other
WMO entities in this regard,
Recommends to the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress draft Resolution XX (Cg‑18) —

WMO contributions to the provision of climate information and services in support of policy- and
decision-making, as provided in the annex to the present recommendation.
Draft Resolution XX (Cg-18)
WMO contributions to the provision of climate information and services in support of

policy- and decision- making
THE CONGRESS,
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 4 (EC-XLI) – Global climate change,
(2) Resolution 15 (Cg-17) – World Climate Programme (WCP),
products to support the implementation of the Global Framework For Climate Services,
(4) Resolution 62 (Cg-17) – Relationship and interaction between the Intergovernmental Board
on Climate Services and WMO constituent bodies,
(5) Resolution 64 (Cg-17) – Development of a results-based framework for WMO support to

the implementation of the Global Framework For Climate Services,
(6) Decision 16 (EC-68) – Country-focused results-based framework and mechanism for WMO
contributions to the GFCS,
(7) Decision 17 (EC-68) – WMO support to the implementation of activities of the

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC),
(9) Decision 11 (EC-69) – Implementation of the country-focused results-based framework and

mechanism for WMO contributions to the Global Framework For Climate Services,
Noting the relevance of WMO climate science products to the implementation of the Global
Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) and to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
(IPCC) as well as to high-level climate-related policy processes such as the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Sendai
Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction,
Having considered the Abridged Final Report of the Seventeenth Session of the Commission
for Climatology (CCl) (WMO-No. 1216),
Decides to establish formal overall coordination of WMO contributions to the provision of

policy- and decision-supporting climate information and services, ensuring, inter alia:
(1) An enlarged scope which encompasses the provision of services to high-level climate
related policy processes in addition to supporting country-level service delivery by
Members, taking into account the current mechanism for WMO contributions to the GFCS,
and ensuring a focus on delivering to the agreed WMO Strategic Plan and priorities;
(2) Formalization of roles and responsibilities for ensuring effective coordination among all the
bodies responsible for World Climate Programme (WCP) implementation;
(3) Representation from the governance structures of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change (IPCC) and the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS);
(4) Engagement of the operational WMO entities of the Climate Services Information
System, including Global Producing Centres, Regional Climate Centres and NMHSs, and
other relevant organizations, programmes and initiatives with whom cooperation and
coordination is needed to strengthen WMO contributions to the provision of policy- and
decision-supporting climate information and services;
(5) That the ongoing work and planned deliverables approved at the 17th session of the
Commission for Climatology are continued;
Requests the Secretary General to convene the presidents of technical commissions,

presidents of regional associations, and chairs persons and key focal points of WCP entities,
IPCC and GFCS to identify appropriate arrangements;
Requests the President to make a recommendation on the implementation of this Resolution to

the Executive Council.
WMO contributions to the provision of agricultural meteorology

Recalling Resolution 43 (Cg-XVI) – Terms of reference of the technical commissions,
Having considered the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology, Abridged Final Report of
the Seventeenth Session (WMO‑No. 1217), in particular Resolution 3 (CAgM-17) – Review of
previous resolutions and recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology,
Resolution 4 (CAgM-17) – Priorities (2018–2022) of the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology,
and Recommendation 5 (CAgM-17) – Continuation and strengthening of the work of the
Commission for Agricultural Meteorology,
Recognizing the need to keep experts of agricultural meteorology engaged in WMO activities
and to ensure that their contributions are and will continue to be recognized in the future,
Recommends to the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress draft Resolution XX/1 (Cg-18)
– WMO contributions to the provision of agricultural meteorology information and services, as
provided in the annex to the present recommendation.
WMO contributions to the provision of agricultural meteorology

THE CONGRESS,
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 22 (Cg-XVI) – Agricultural Meteorology Programme,
(2) Resolution 43 (Cg-XVI) – Terms of reference of the technical commissions,
(3) Resolution 17 (Cg-17) – Integrated Drought Management Programme,
(4) Decision 44 (EC-69) – Enhancing national and regional drought-monitoring systems,
Having considered the Abridged Final Report with Resolutions and Recommendations of the
Seventeenth Session of the Commission of Agricultural Meteorology (CAgM) (WMO‑No. 1217),
Noting WMO achievements in assisting Members with the provision of a wide range of
deliverables for supporting national agricultural meteorological services including national and
regional drought monitoring and early warning systems and national drought policies and plans,
Recognizing:
(1) The contribution of agricultural meteorological services to the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals including: 1 – Zero Poverty, 2 – No Hunger, 5 – Gender Equality,
6 – Clean Water, 7 – Clean Energy, 13 – Climate Action, 15 – Life on Land, and 17 –
Partnerships for the Goals,
(2) The crucial importance of food security to Members and the provision of weather and
climate services for Members to increase food production and reduce impacts of extreme
weather and climatic events and climate change on food productivity and stability,
(3) The continued work of the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) with a focus on
the agriculture and food security and disaster risk reduction priority areas,
(4) The ongoing work of the Integrated Drought Management Programme (IDMP) with over
34 partner organizations,
Decides, in the context of the ongoing WMO governance structure reform:
(1) That the ongoing work and planned deliverables approved at the Seventeenth Session
of the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology be adequately incorporated into the
governance review outcome,
(2) That the CAgM priority areas (2018–2022) and the Terms of Reference of the Commission
for Agricultural Meteorology in Resolution 43 (Cg-XVI) – Terms of reference of the technical
commissions _ be taken into account, as the basis for any new structure focused on
agricultural meteorology such as may arise from the governance review.
Global Basic Observing Network
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 2 (EC-68) – Plan for the WMO Integrated Global Observing System
preoperational phase 2016–2019,
(2) Decision 21 (EC-69) – Regional Basic Observing Network,
Acknowledging with appreciation the development of the next edition of the Manual on
WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1160), which will include all relevant
material from the current Manual on the Global Observing System (WMO-No. 544) and new
provisions relevant to the Regional Basic Observing Network and WMO Integrated Global
Observing System (WIGOS) data quality monitoring,
Having considered the essential role played by global applications such as numerical weather
prediction (NWP) and climate analysis as a backbone for all products and services provided by
all WMO Members to their constituencies, even at regional and local levels,
Having considered also the continued need to serve these global applications with
comprehensive sets of observations also from surface-based observing systems, and the
essential role played by WMO in facilitating and coordinating the acquisition and international
exchange of such observations,
Having considered further the preliminary reports from the WIGOS Data Quality Monitoring
System NWP Pilot Project showing continued poor observational data coverage over many areas
of the global domain,
Requests the Commission for Basic Systems:
(1) To develop an overarching design for the Global Basic Observing Network to meet
threshold requirements for Global Numerical Weather Prediction and Global Climate
Monitoring (Analysis) as established by the Rolling Review of Requirements, taking into
account the respective contributions of space-based and surface-based components of
WIGOS;
(2) With joint efforts of all regional associations and the Global Cryosphere Watch Steering
Group, to design, establish and monitor the Regional Basic Observing Networks to
conform to the overarching Global Basic Observing Network design, providing real-time
observations for international exchange with the required accuracy, spatial and temporal
resolution and timeliness;
Requests the Intercommission Coordination Group on WIGOS to develop relevant provisions

of the Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1160) regarding
the implementation of the Global Basic Observing Network, and submit them to the World
Meteorological Congress at its Eighteenth Session in 2019;
Requests Members to provide their feedback to the Secretary-General on the draft Manual on
the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1160).
Vision for the WMO Integrated Global Observing System in 2040
Recalling Resolution 2 (EC-68) – Plan for the WMO Integrated Global Observing System
preoperational phase 2016–2019,
Noting that the Executive Council at its sixty-sixth session (2014) had requested the
Commission for Basic Systems to take the lead in developing a Vision for the WMO Integrated
Global Observing System (WIGOS) in 2040, which would include a vision for the WIGOS
component observing systems in 2040, to be submitted to World Meteorological Congress at its
Eighteenth Session in 2019,
Noting further that the Vision reflects how new and more efficient technologies will become
available to Members for both space-based and surface-based observing systems, and that it
provides high-level goals to help guide the evolution of WIGOS well into the future,
Noting with satisfaction the development of the integrated overall draft Vision led by the Co-
Chairs of the Intercommission Coordination Group on WIGOS with continued involvement of the
lead authors of the surface- and space-based contributions, which is now approaching its final
form,
Endorses the current draft Vision for WIGOS in 2040 as provided in EC-70/INF. 7.1(3);
Recommends that the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress approve the Vision for
WIGOS in 2040 in the final draft form submitted to it;
Requests the Secretary-General to take the necessary steps to finalize the draft Vision and
provide it to Members, WMO technical commissions, regional associations, fellow United Nations
agencies, other international organizations and private sector representatives, for their review
prior to its submission to the Eighteenth Congress in 2019;
Requests technical commissions to contribute to the finalization of the draft Vision as needed;
Invites international partner organizations to provide their feedback as needed.
The WMO Integrated Global Observing System in the WMO programmatic structure
from 2020 onwards
Recalling the essential role of observations as the foundation upon which all products and
services provided by the WMO Members to their constituencies in the areas of weather, climate
and water are built,
Recalling further more than 60 years of success of the World Weather Watch due to its
integration of observations, data exchange and quantitative prediction systems in support of
production and delivery of watches, warnings and other forecast products,
Noting that the draft WMO Strategic Plan clearly establishes, as its Goal 2, to “Enhance Earth
system observations and predictions: Strengthening the technical foundation for the future”,
Noting further the increasingly close links between the various disciplines and application areas
that span WMO activities, as concerns both modelling and observations,
Noting with satisfaction the progress made during the WMO Integrated Global Observing
System (WIGOS) implementation phase and the WIGOS pre-operational phase toward
integration of the surface- and space-based observing programmes for all application areas
covered by WMO into a single system,
Having examined the recommendations from the seventh session of the Intercommission
Coordination Group on WIGOS (January 2018), as provided in the annex to the present
recommendation,
Having considered Recommendation 25 (EC-70) – WMO technical commissions and other

bodies, in particular as concerns the establishment of a new Commission for Observations,
Infrastructure and Information Systems,
Endorses the recommendations from the Intercommission Coordination Group on WIGOS, as

provided in the annex to the present recommendation;
Recommends to the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress that WIGOS be designated

essential WMO infrastructure with the role of providing the observational basis for all WMO
programmes and application areas;
Requests the Commission for Basic Systems, drawing on the experience of the
Intercommission Coordination Group on WIGOS, to develop a proposal for giving the WMO
Information System and the Global Data-processing and Forecasting System a status similar to
WIGOS, and for managing the three systems jointly as essential infrastructure supporting all
WMO programmes and application areas, using the World Weather Watch as a model.
Recommendations from the seventh session of the Intercommission Coordination

Group on WIGOS
(a) WIGOS must continue as a core WMO activity supporting all WMO programs and
application areas, and it must continue to involve all regions and technical and scientific
discipline areas;
(b) WIGOS must be given a clear and permanent status with a governance mechanism that is
firmly anchored in the WMO constituent body structure;
(c) Rather than affiliating WIGOS with an existing program or creating a new program, there is
a preference for considering WIGOS as “Basic WMO observational infrastructure”; as such
it should include and fully integrate the observing components of all existing and emerging
WMO programmes in support of all WMO activities;
(d) It was pointed out that the WMO Information System (WIS) and eventually also the Global
Data Processing and Forecast System (GDPFS) have similar roles and could be seen
together with WIGOS as core elements of such infrastructure;
(e) Continued effort will have to be devoted to the removal of any barriers to working together
across different user communities, program areas, and scientific disciplines, including
both WMO and co-sponsored observing systems; without pre-empting any particular
outcome of the governance reform discussions, this issue must be directly addressed in the
restructuring;
(f) In order to further increase the level of integration of the various WIGOS components and
to maximize efficiency and effectiveness of the work, the Secretary General is encouraged
to organize the Secretariat support of WIGOS along lines that mirror the eventual outcome
of the governance reform.
Joint WMO and Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Strategy for Marine

Meteorological and Oceanographic Data Management (2018–2021)
Noting:
(1) Decision 19 (JCOMM-5) – Joint World Meteorological Organization and Intergovernmental

Oceanographic Commission Strategy for Marine Meteorological and Oceanographic Data
Management (2018–2021) (hereafter, “the Strategy”), which authorized the co-presidents
of the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology
to recommend that the updated draft Strategy be adopted by the executive bodies of
WMO and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO),
(2) The updated draft Strategy, as contained in EC-70/INF. 7.2(2),
(3) The recommendation of the JCOMM co-presidents that this latest draft of the Strategy is
satisfactory and can be submitted to Congress for its adoption, subject to further review
and concurrence by the IOC International Oceanographic Data and Information Exchange
(IODE),
Considering the rationale detailed in the annex to the present recommendation,
Concurs with the draft Strategy as contained in EC-70/INF. 7.2(2);
Recommends that the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress adopt draft

Resolution XX/1(Cg-18) – Joint World Meteorological Organization and Intergovernmental
Oceanographic Commission Strategy for Marine Meteorological and Oceanographic Data
Management (2018–2021), as contained in the annex to the present recommendation;
Invites the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission to have the draft Strategy reviewed
by IODE with a view to submitting it to the Thirtieth IOC Assembly in 2019;
Requests the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology:
(1) To collaborate with IODE to finalize the Strategy ahead of the twenty-fifth session of the
IODE Committee in February 2019;
(2) To develop an implementation plan responding to the Strategy in consultation with

subsidiary bodies and IODE;
(3) To assist the Commission for Basic Systems in developing the information management
component of the WMO Information System (WIS), engaging with the implementation of
WIS 2.0, and to seek to implement the Strategy in a way compatible with WIS 2.0.

THE WORLD METEOROLOGICAL CONGRESS,
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 69 (Cg-17) – WMO Strategic Plan (2016–2019),
(2) Recommendation 8 (EC-70) on the Joint WMO and IOC Strategy for Marine Meteorological
and Oceanographic Data Management (2018–2021),
(3) Decision 18 (EC-70) on the overall approach to implement the WMO Information System
(WIS) 2.0 Strategy, WIS 2.0,
Noting:
(1) The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO Medium Term

Strategy 2014–2021, and the IOC Strategic Plan for Data and Information Management
(2017–2021),
(2) That one of the objectives of the JCOMM is to implement and maintain a fully integrated
end-to-end data management system across the entire marine meteorology and
oceanographic community,
(3) That the seventeenth World Meteorological Congress in Resolution 33 (Cg-17) decided to
develop “Part C” of the WMO Information System (WIS) to provide guidance and standards
for information management for which the first step of development was the WMO
Workshop on Information Management held 2–4 October 2017,
(4) With satisfaction the work of JCOMM in collaboration with its subsidiary bodies and with
IOC of UNESCO to develop the Joint WMO and IOC Strategy for Marine Meteorological and
Oceanographic Data Management (2018–2021) referred below as Strategy,
(5) The draft Implementation Plan developed by JCOMM and responding to the Strategy,
Considering:
(1) The need to have a holistic and strategic approach with regard to marine meteorological
and oceanographic data management in the WMO and IOC frameworks, involving all
Programme Areas and the IODE,
(2) That such strategic approach should be consistent with the current 2016–2019 and
future WMO Strategic Plans, and the IOC Medium Term Strategy 2014–2021, including in
particular the WMO Information System 2.0 Strategy and the IOC Strategic Plan for Data
and Information Management (2017–2021),
(3) The need to be able to respond to fast technological developments in the area of data
management, information systems, and emerging data issues (e.g. big data),
Acknowledging that JCOMM and the IODE will be able to offer their expertise to assist other
groups (e.g. the Ocean Observations Panel for Climate) to specify and implement their own data
management requirements, with the overall goal of integrating their data management into the
overall end-to end data management system,
Realizing that the implementation of the Strategy may encounter limitations based on
availability of resources,
Adopts the draft strategy as provided in the Annex to this Resolution, subject to parallel
approval of the IOC assembly;
Requests:
(1) JCOMM to finalize the draft Implementation Plan responding to the Strategy in consultation
with subsidiary bodies and the International Oceanographic Data and Information Exchange
(IODE) of IOC of UNESCO;
(2) JCOMM to assist the Commission for Basic System(CBS) in developing the information
management component of WIS, engaging with the implementation of WIS 2.0, and to
seek to implement the Strategy in a way compatible with WIS 2.0;
Invites:
(1) IOC Assembly to approve the Strategy and to collaborate in the implementation of the
Strategy;
(2) IOC Assembly to promote the Strategy and its implementation with IOC Member States;
Encourages Members/Member States and all other contributors identified in the Strategy to
collaborate with JCOMM with the view of realizing the outcomes expected from the Strategy;
Requests the Secretary General to bring the present resolution to the attention of all
concerned.
Annex to draft Resolution XX (Cg-18)

The final version of the strategy will be included in the Annex to the draft
Resolution XX/1 (Cg‑18) in due course. The current version of the strategy is available in EC-70/
INF. 7.2(2).
Establishment of collaboration between the International Air Transport Association

and WMO on the operation and development of the WMO Aircraft Meteorological Data
Relay Programme
Recalling:
(1) Decision 60 (EC-69) – Potential future collaboration of WMO and the International
Air Transport Association on the operation and development of the WMO Aircraft
Meteorological Data Relay Programme, which endorsed the establishment of a Working
Arrangement between WMO and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) under
which the two organizations would work together to develop the terms of reference and
concept of operations for future collaboration on the WMO Aircraft Meteorological Data
Relay (AMDAR) Programme,
(2) Decision 19 (EC-70) – Mechanisms for provision of shared services, on the principle of
procurement and contract management by the Secretary-General of services for shared
use by Members and partner organizations,
Noting that a Working Arrangement was established between IATA and WMO in July 2017
regarding cooperation on matters related to the automated measurement and transmission of
meteorological data from an aircraft platform, currently operational as the AMDAR programme,
considered a key component of the WMO Global Observing System,
Noting also that Decision 60 (EC-69) requested the Secretary-General, in coordination with
the president of the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS), to work with IATA to finalize and
establish the Working Arrangement between the two organizations and to subsequently develop
the concept of operations for the future possible collaboration between WMO and IATA on the
operation and development of the AMDAR Programme,
Noting further Resolution 10 (RA VI-17) – Development of the Region VI AMDAR Programme
under the IATA-WMO collaboration on AMDAR, through which Regional Association VI (RA VI)
decided that, subject to IATA and WMO entering into a formal collaboration on AMDAR, on
the basis of a decision of the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress in 2019, RA VI would
compile its requirements for AMDAR observations by July 2018, with a view to beginning
development of the WMO Region VI AMDAR Programme under the IATA-WMO collaboration
agreement in January 2019 and potentially beginning operation of the programme in January
2020,
Having been informed of the ongoing work on development of the proposed concept of
operations and terms of reference for the IATA-WMO collaborative AMDAR Programme,
Having been further informed that IATA will play a significant role in ensuring that the
agreed required AMDAR observations are provided efficiently and economically through
promotion and coordination with its member airlines and the wider aviation industry,
Convinced that the collaboration will lead to the expansion and enhancement of the WMO
AMDAR observing system globally and, as a result, bring increased and further benefits to
meteorological applications and improvement to forecasting skills and services to aviation,
Endorses the continuing development of the IATA-WMO collaboration on AMDAR;
Decides to re-establish the Task Team on the IATA-WMO Collaboration on AMDAR,

previously adopted by CBS, with the terms of reference provided in the annex to the present
recommendation and reporting directly to the Executive Council, and authorizes the WMO
President to appoint the Task Team following the recommendation of the Management Group
of the Commission for Basic Systems, which will keep the President of the Commission for
Aeronautical Meteorology informed on this activity;
Further decides that the Secretary-General, in consultation with the Presidents of the
Commission for Basic Systems and the Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology, will
recommend to Congress the Working Arrangement, supporting agreement and Concept of
Operations developed by the Task Team on the IATA-WMO Collaboration on AMDAR;
Recommends that Congress consider for approval the establishment of a Working

Arrangement and supporting agreement between WMO and IATA to implement and operate
the AMDAR Programme, subject to the satisfactory finalization by the Task Team of the
proposed Concept of Operations and terms of reference of the collaboration, and of the draft
Implementation Plan of the IATA-WMO Collaborative AMDAR Programme. This should potentially
begin operation in January 2020;
Requests the Secretary-General and the Commission for Basic Systems to continue to
coordinate, with the Executive Council, the information about the programme, seeking the
endorsement of the Concept of Operations of the IATA-WMO Collaboration on AMDAR by all
regional associations.
Terms of reference of the Task Team on the IATA-WMO

Collaboration on AMDAR
The Task Team shall:
1) Work with International Air Transport Association (IATA) to investigate and resolve
potential legal and other issues relating to the establishment of the IATA-WMO
Collaborative WMO Aircraft Meteorological Data Relay (AMDAR) Programme;
2) Review and finalise the Concept of Operations and other related and required
documentation necessary to support the decision making process for EC and Cg;
3) Develop its proposal in accordance with Decision 19 (EC-70) on the principle of

procurement and contract management by the Secretary-General of services for shared
use by Members and partner organizations;
4) Oversee the formulation of related recommendations to EC-70 and Cg-XVIII;
5) Oversee the final establishment of the IATA-WMO Collaborative AMDAR Programme

(IWCAP), its governance and operational structure and related agreements; and
6) Report as directed or as necessary to the WMO President on progress and issues.

Members’ contribution to the actions specified in the Implementation Plan for the
Evolution of Global Observing Systems, in the context of the future WMO Integrated
Global Observing System Implementation Plan
Recalling Resolution 10 (EC-65) – Report of the fifteenth session of the Commission for Basic
Systems relevant to integrated observing systems, which approved Recommendation 6 (CBS-
15) – Implementation Plan for the Evolution of Global Observing Systems,
Noting:
(1) The Implementation Plan for the Evolution of Global Observing Systems (EGOS-IP), WIGOS
Technical Report No. 2013-4,
(2) The final report of the eighteenth session of the Commission for Basic Systems
Management Group, held in Geneva on 29 March 2018,
Having considered:
(1) The need to facilitate implementation by Members of the actions specified in the EGOS-IP
by raising awareness and commitment of the Permanent Representatives with regard to
the benefits stemming from those actions,
(2) That the Commission for Basic Systems, having monitored the status of EGOS-IP actions,
found that they showed slow or limited progress (see EC-70/INF. 7.4(1)),
(3) That the future WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) Implementation Plan,
which will be developed in response to the new WIGOS Vision 2040, due to be considered
for approval by the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress, will build on the EGOS-IP,
(4) That there is an ongoing need to ensure appropriate evolution of global observing systems
in order for WMO to be able to address the critical gaps of application areas,
Recommends that Congress request Members and identified implementing agents to take
steps to better address implementation of some specific EGOS-IP actions, as listed in the annex
to the present recommendation.
Key actions of the Implementation Plan for the Evolution of Global Observing Systems
to be carried out by Members
Members are encouraged to focus on the key EGOS-IP actions listed in the table below, and to
provide feedback on how they are implemented at the national level. However, the remaining
actions are also important and need to be addressed by the identified actors in the EGOS-IP.
Action
Action Performance indicator
No.
C3 WIS Standards – Ensure all operators producing observations Extent to which WIS
adhere to the WIS standards. standards are applied.
Action
No.
C4 Users consultation – Careful preparation is required before Extent to which user
introducing new (or changing existing) observing systems. community concerns are
The impact needs to be assessed through prior and ongoing captured.
consultation with data users and the wider user community. Also,
data users need to be provided with guidance on data reception/
acquisition, processing and analysis infrastructure, the provision
of proxy data, and the provision of education and training
programmes.
C7 “Change management” procedures – Ensure time continuity and Continuity and consistency
overlap of key components of the observing system and their of data records.
data records, in accordance with user requirements, through
appropriate change-management procedures.
C8 Data sharing principles – For WMO and co-sponsored observing Continued availability of all
systems, ensure continued adherence to WMO data sharing essential observational data
principles irrespective of origin of data, including data provided to all WMO members.
by commercial entities.
C12 Radio frequencies – Ensure a continuous monitoring of the radio Observation frequency
frequencies which are needed for the different components of bands available/not
WIGOS, in order to make sure they are available and have the available with required level
required level of protection. of protection.
G2 Hourly data exchange – Ensure, as far as possible, a global The standard monitoring
exchange of hourly data which are used in global applications, indicators used in global
optimized to balance user requirements against technical and NWP.
financial limitations.
G4 WIGOS Standards – Ensure exchange of observations from Statistics on the data
atmosphere, ocean, terrestrial observing system, according to made available to each
the WIGOS standards. If needed, organize different levels of application.
pre-processed observations in order to satisfy different user
requirements.
G7 Radiosondes in data-sparse areas – Expand radiosonde stations, The standard monitoring
or re-activate silent radiosonde stations, in the data sparse areas indicators used in NWP
of Regions I, II and III which have the poorest data coverage.
Make all possible effort to avoid closing of existing stations in
these data sparse areas, where even a very small number of
radiosonde stations can provide an essential benefit to all the
users.
G13 Radiosonde data availability – Identify radiosonde stations that A number of the above
make regular measurements (including radiosondes operated radiosonde stations
during campaigns only), but for which data are not transmitted in providing data to GTS,
real time. Take actions to make data available. plus standard monitoring
indicators on radiosonde
data availability and
timeliness.
G14 HR Radiosonde data – Ensure a timely distribution of radiosonde Number of radiosonde
measurements at high vertical resolution, together with position sites providing the high
and time information for each datum, and other associated resolution profiles.
metadata.
G17 Regional remote sensing profiling stations – Develop networks A number of profiling
of remote-sensing profiling stations on the regional scale in stations providing quality-
order to complement the radiosonde and aircraft observing assessed data in real time
systems, mainly on the basis of regional, national and local user to WIS/GTS.
requirements (although part of the measured data will be used
globally).
G18 Processing & exchange of profiler data – Ensure, as far as A number of profiling
possible, the required processing and the exchange of profiler stations exchanged globally.
data for local, regional and global use. When profiler data can be
produced more frequently than 1 hour, a dataset containing only
hourly observations can be exchanged globally following the WIS
principles.
Action
No.
G40 Metadata & representativeness of special stations – Ensure, as A percentage of
far as possible in real time, exchange of observations, relevant observations from the
metadata, including a measure of representativeness made above stations exchanged
by surface-based stations serving specific applications (road regionally and globally in
transport, aviation, agricultural meteorology, urban meteorology, real-time.
etc.).
G45 Dual polarization radars – Increase the deployment, calibration Data coverage obtained
and use of dual polarization radars in those regions where it is from this type of radar for
beneficial. each Region.
G47 Weather radars for developing countries & DRR – For areas in The number of operational
developing countries which are sensitive to storms and floods, a weather radar stations in
special effort has to be made to establish and maintain weather the above areas.
radar stations.
Use of the Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review tool/Surface for the
collection and recording of the WMO Integrated Global Observing System metadata
Noting:
(1) The Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1160), and the
obligation of Members to submit WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS)
metadata about the observing systems they operate,
(2) Recommendation 28 (CBS-16) – Submission and maintenance of WMO Integrated Global

Observing System metadata in the Observing System Capability Analysis and Review tool
by Members,
(3) The final report of the eighteenth session of the Commission for Basic Systems
Having considered that the development of machine-to-machine interfaces for the

exchange of metadata between existing databases (including national databases) and the
Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review tool (OSCAR) is essential for the upload
and management of the WIGOS metadata, for avoiding duplication of work and for increasing
reliability and quality of WIGOS metadata in OSCAR,
Recognizing:
(1) That some observing systems, namely the Global Atmosphere Watch (GAW) with the
GAW Station Information System (GAWSIS), the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS),
sponsored by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, the World Meteorological
Organization, the United Nations Environment Programme and the International Science
Council, with the JCOMM in situ Observations Programme Support Centre (JCOMMOPS) and
the Global Observing System (GOS) with the WMO Weather Radar Database (WRD), have
already developed their own information systems for WIGOS metadata,
(2) That the above information systems should continue to be used and interfaced with
OSCAR/Surface for centralizing all WIGOS metadata of surface-based observing systems
within OSCAR/Surface,
(3) That Members have also developed national databases for the recording of WIGOS
metadata, and that such databases ought to be preferably interfaced with OSCAR/Surface
through machine-to-machine interfaces in order to reduce the workload of OSCAR/Surface
National Focal Points and the risk of introducing typographic errors when using the human
interface,
Adopts Recommendation 28 (CBS-16) – Submission and maintenance of WMO Integrated

Global Observing System metadata in the Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review
tool by Members;
Requests the Secretariat and OSCAR/Surface Project Committee to ensure development and
operational implementation of the Application Program Interface (API) for machine-to-machine
interface with OSCAR/Surface by the end of 2018;
Recommends that Congress request:
(1) Members to submit to OSCAR the required WIGOS metadata for all observing stations, as
described below:
(a) For all relevant WIGOS observing systems operated by them, in addition to the ones
explicitly listed below, (i) preferably through machine-to-machine interface as soon as
available, or (ii) directly to OSCAR using human interface;
(b) For any GAW observing stations they operate, through the GAW Information System
(GAWSIS);
(c) For any weather radars they operate, through the WRD;
(d) For any marine meteorological and oceanographic observing systems they operate,
through JCOMMOPS;
(2) Members operating their own databases of WIGOS metadata to develop and implement
procedures for the use of machine-to-machine interfaces with OSCAR;
(3) Members to consider collaborating and contributing to efforts of the Commission for Basic
Systems to develop a WMO stand-alone national implementation metadata management
tool for holding national WIGOS metadata;
(4) Members who have not already done so to nominate OSCAR/Surface National Focal Points
as soon as possible in order to ensure that WIGOS metadata in OSCAR/Surface are
maintained to the agreed standard;
(5) The Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology to
ensure that JCOMMOPS will be fully compliant with the WIGOS metadata standard and
to facilitate ingestion of relevant WIGOS metadata in its database while providing fully
compliant machine-to-machine interfaces with the surface-based observation system
component of OSCAR (OSCAR/Surface).
Radio frequencies for meteorological and related environmental activities
Recalling Resolution 29 (Cg-17) – Radio frequencies for meteorological and related

environmental activities, and subsequent Executive Council decisions listed in the annex to the
present recommendation,
Noting the final report of the eighteenth session of the Commission for Basic Systems
Considering the rationale detailed in the annex to the present recommendation,
Recommends that Congress adopt Draft Resolution XX (Cg-18) – Radio frequencies for
meteorological and related environmental activities, as provided in the Annex to the present
recommendation.
RADIO FREQUENCIES FOR METEOROLOGICAL AND

RELATED ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVITIES
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 29 (Cg-17) – Radio frequencies for meteorological and related environmental
activities,
(2) Decision 33 (EC-69) – Preserving the radio-frequency spectrum for meteorological and
related environmental activities at the World Radiocommunication Conference 2019,
(3) Decision 22 (CBS-16) – Preserving the radio-frequency spectrum for meteorological and
related environmental activities at the World Radiocommunication Conference 2019,
Considering:
(1) The prime importance of the specific radiocommunication services for meteorological and
related environmental activities required for the detection and early warning of hazards
and the prevention and mitigation of natural and technological (human-induced) disasters,
the safety of life and property, the protection of the environment, climate change studies
and scientific research,
(2) The importance of information provided by the Earth exploration systems including
meteorological systems for a wide range of economic activities such as agriculture,
transportation, construction and tourism,
(3) The crucial importance of the allocation of suitable radio-frequency bands for the operation
of surface-based meteorological observing systems, including in particular radiosondes,
weather radars and wind profiler radars,
(4) The crucial importance of the allocation of suitable radio-frequency bands for the operation
of meteorological and research and development satellites, including remote-sensing, data
collection and data distribution links,
Stressing that some radio-frequency bands are a unique natural resource due to their special
characteristics and natural radiation enabling spaceborne passive sensing of the atmosphere
and the Earth surface, which deserve adequate allocation to the Earth exploration satellite
service (passive) and absolute protection from interference,
Expresses its serious concern at the continuing threat to several radio-frequency bands
allocated to the meteorological aids, meteorological-satellite, Earth exploration satellite and
radiolocation (weather and wind profiler radars) services posed by the development of other
radiocommunication services;
Requests the Commission for Basic Systems to pursue the continuous review of regulatory
and technical matters related to radio frequencies for operational and research meteorological
and related environmental activities, and preparation of guidance and information for National
Meteorological and Hydrological Services, in coordination with other technical commissions
especially the Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation, and in liaison with
other relevant international bodies, in particular the Coordination Group for Meteorological
Satellites;
Requests regional associations to coordinate on a regional basis contributions of

meteorological experts to the work of relevant regional telecommunication organizations and
of ITU-R, especially ITU-R Study Groups 5 and 7 on Terrestrial (including radiolocation) and
Science Services, respectively;
Encourages RAs to establish a focal point on RFC matters;
Urges all Members to do their utmost to ensure the availability and protection of suitable
radio-frequency bands required for meteorological and related environmental operations and
research, and in particular:
(1) To ensure that their national radiocommunication administrations are fully aware of the
importance of and requirements for radio frequencies for meteorological and related
activities, and to seek their support in the ITU World Radiocommunication Conferences and
Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) activities;
(2) To participate actively in the national, regional and international activities on relevant
radiocommunication regulatory issues and, in particular, to involve experts from their
Services in the work of relevant regional telecommunication organizations and of ITU-R,
especially ITU-R Study Groups 5 and 7 on Terrestrial (including radiolocation) and Science
Services, respectively;
(3) To register adequately with their national radiocommunication administrations all

radiocommunication stations and radio frequencies used for meteorological and related
environmental operations and research;
Appeals to the International Telecommunication Union and its Member Administrations:
(1) To ensure the availability and absolute protection of the radio-frequency bands which,
due to their special physical characteristics, are a unique natural resource for spaceborne
passive sensing of the atmosphere and the Earth surface and are of crucial importance for
weather, water and climate research and operations;
(2) To give due consideration to the WMO requirements for radio-frequency allocations
and regulatory provisions for meteorological and related environmental operations and
research;
(3) To pay special attention to the WMO positions related to the WRC agenda, in the light of
Appeals (1) and (2) above;
(1) To bring the present resolution to the attention of all concerned, including the International
Telecommunication Union;
(2) To pursue as a matter of high priority the coordination role of the Secretariat in
radiofrequency matters, especially with ITU-R, including participation of WMO in ITU-R
Radiocommunication Study Groups, conference preparatory meetings and World
Radiocommunication Conferences;
(3) To facilitate the coordination between National Meteorological and Hydrological Services
and their national radiocommunication administrations, particularly in preparing for the
ITU World Radiocommunication Conferences, by providing appropriate information and
documentation;
(4) To assist the Commission for Basic Systems in the implementation of the present
resolution.
Note: This resolution replaces Resolution 29 (Cg-17).
Tropical Pacific Observing System 2020
Recalling Decision 28 (EC-69) – Tropical Pacific Observing System 2020, which contains the
rationale for WMO support to the Tropical Pacific Observing System (TPOS) 2020, recognized as
a WIGOS preoperational phase pilot project, and an acknowledgment that the first report on the
TPOS 2020 project includes recommendations for the sustained backbone observing system,
and identification of pilots and process studies to further refine the future design while targeting
forecast model systematic errors with key actions,
Noting Decision 27 (JCOMM-5) – Tropical Pacific Observing System 2020 transition and
implementation, supporting implementation of the System through the TPOS 2020–JCOMM
Transition and Implementation Task Team,
Noting also the efforts of TPOS 2020 to prepare a second report with recommendations on the
implementation of a tropical pacific observing system, and that the report should be available
around the beginning of 2019 at the latest,
Recommends that Congress review the second report and consider supporting its
recommendations with relevant guidance to Members and constituent bodies.
Ensuring adequate marine meteorological observations and data coverage for the
safety of navigation and the protection of life and property in coastal and offshore
areas
Recalling:
(1) Article 2 of the Convention of the World Meteorological Organization, committing

Members: “(a) To facilitate worldwide cooperation in the establishment of networks
of stations for the making of meteorological observations as well as hydrological and
other geophysical observations related to meteorology … ”, and “(b) “To promote the
establishment and maintenance of systems for the rapid exchange of meteorological and
related information”,
(2) The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982 (UNCLOS),
(3) The report of the Third Committee (Preservation of the marine environment, Scientific
research, Development and transfer of technology) of the Third United Nations Conference
on the Law of the Sea (1973–1982), expressing the uncontested opinion of the Chairman
that the provisions of part XIII of UNCLOS on marine scientific research would not create
any difficulties or obstacles hindering adequate meteorological coverage from the ocean
areas, including areas within the exclusive economic zones, carried out both in the
framework of existing operational activities and international research programmes and
by all vessels and indispensable for the issue of timely and accurate storm warnings for
the safety of navigation as well as for the protection of life and property in coastal and
offshore areas, since such operational and research activities had already been recognized
as routine observation and data collecting which, although not covered by part XIII of the
negotiating text, were in the common interest of all countries and had undoubted universal
significance,
(4) Resolution 9 (Cg-IX) – United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea, which requested
the Executive Council and the Secretary-General: (a) To arrange, in close consultation with
the president of the Commission for Marine Meteorology (now Joint WMO/IOC Technical
Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology), for a continuing review of the
implications of the legal provisions of the Convention on the ocean-related activities of
WMO with a view to informing the United Nations and Members of WMO, as appropriate;
and (b) To take action, as necessary, to ensure that the ocean-related activities of WMO,
both operational and scientific, are undertaken under the most favourable conditions,
(5) Resolution 40 (Cg-XII) – WMO policy and practice for the exchange of meteorological
meteorological activities, which recognizes marine meteorological observations as essential
data,
(6) The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS, 1974) as amended,
Noting:
(1) The Technical Regulations (WMO-No. 49), Volume I, Part I,
(2) The Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1160),
(3) The Manual on Marine Meteorological Services (WMO-No. 558), Volume I, Part I, defining
WMO Members’ responsibility for issuing warnings for high seas and coastal waters
according to internationally agreed procedure,
Realizing that, at present, WMO plans and coordinates two types of activity over the oceans:
(1) Operational activities, such as those undertaken within the frameworks of the World
Weather Watch and the Marine Meteorology and Oceanography Programme, and regulated
under the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS),
(2) Marine scientific research activities, which are regulated under UNCLOS and may be
undertaken or coordinated by WMO and partner organizations within the framework of
WMO research and co-sponsored programmes such as the Global Ocean Observing System
and Global Climate Observing System, sponsored by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission (IOC), the World Meteorological Organization, the United Nations Environment
Programme (UNEP) and the International Science Council (ISC),
Considering:
(1) That adequate marine meteorological data coverage from ocean areas, including those
from the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), is indispensable for the issue of timely and
accurate storm warnings for the safety of life at sea and the protection of life and property
in coastal and offshore areas,
(2) That the SOLAS Convention, Chapter V, Safety of Navigation, Regulation 5, specifies
that the contracting governments undertake, inter alia, to encourage the collection of
meteorological data by ships at sea and to issue warnings of gales, storms and tropical
storms,
(3) That Members of WMO have undertaken the responsibility of issuing warnings for the high
seas and coastal waters according to internationally agreed procedures,
(4) That WMO-coordinated research programmes require extensive marine meteorological and
oceanographic data sets from the world ocean, including EEZs,
(5) That meteorological observations from satellites over the oceans, including over EEZs, are
routinely made available for operational purposes,
(6) That marine meteorological and oceanographic observations included in numerical models
contribute to improving prediction skills at all time scales,
(7) That marine observing platforms such as voluntary observing ships, data buoys, uncrewed
surface vehicles, Argo profiling floats and sub-surface gliders are capable of providing
meteorological observations primarily from data sparse areas of the ocean,
Recognizing:
(1) That since Resolution 9 (Cg-IX) was adopted, the observational user requirements of
operational WMO applications, including global and high-resolution numerical weather
prediction and sub-seasonal to longer-range prediction, and climate services have
substantially evolved, and are now increasingly relying on marine meteorological and
oceanographic observations,
(2) The future direction of WMO, as part of the Strategic Plan, in support of Earth
system prediction, which coupled with ocean models will be relying greatly on marine
meteorological and oceanographic data made routinely available to WMO,
(3) That in situ observations over the oceans complement satellite data for calibration and
validation purposes, and that some of the marine meteorological and oceanographic
observations, such as sea-level pressure, sub-surface temperature and salinity profile,
cannot currently be adequately measured from space,
(4) That technological advances can now provide in situ observational data of the requisite
enhanced quality and spatial and temporal resolution, from the world oceans, including
from EEZs,
(5) That there is no clear regulation in place for the collection of marine meteorological and
oceanographic measurements within EEZs in support of operational applications of WMO,
while the IOC Guidelines for the Implementation of Resolution XX-6 of the IOC Assembly
Regarding the Deployment of Profiling Floats in the High Seas within the Framework of the
Argo Programme (IOC Resolution EC-XLI.4) are operated effectively,
Recommends that the eighteenth World Meteorological Congress adopt a resolution on the
making of marine meteorological and oceanographic observations over the oceans, including
EEZs, to replace Resolution 9 (Cg-IX);
Requests the Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology
jointly with the Commission for Basic Systems and the Commission for Instruments and
Methods of Observation, including participating Members, to prepare a draft resolution on
collecting operational meteorological measurements from EEZs for Congress approval, with the
following objectives:
(1) To check that operational meteorological observations are obtained from EEZs, and to
propose new Technical Regulations in this regard;
(2) To urge Members to continue to promote marine meteorological and related oceanographic
observational and research programmes over the ocean for operational purposes;
(3) To identify a mechanism for a continuing review of the implications of the legal provisions
of SOLAS for the ocean-related activities of WMO with a view to informing the United
Nations and Members of WMO, as appropriate;
(4) To propose the necessary actions to ensure that WMO ocean-related operational and
research activities aimed at supporting safety of navigation and protection of life and
property are undertaken under the most favorable conditions;
(5) To invite Members to support the referring of such a Congress resolution in the Resolution
on Oceans and the Law of the Sea to be adopted by the seventy-fourth session of the
United Nations General Assembly.
Seamless Global Data-processing and Forecasting System

Implementation Plan
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 11 (Cg-17) – Towards a future enhanced integrated and seamless Data-
processing and Forecasting System, which:
(a) Decided to initiate a process for the gradual establishment of an enhanced, integrated
and seamless WMO Data-processing and Forecasting System, in light of the
conclusions of the first World Weather Open Science Conference (Montreal, Canada,
August 2014),
(b) Requested the Executive Council to provide terms of reference for this process and
a description of the set of items the system should produce, for consideration by the
eighteenth World Meteorological Congress,
(2) Decision 55 (EC-68) – Implementation of the Seamless Data-processing and Forecasting

System, which endorsed the Vision for the Seamless Data-processing and Forecasting
System and established a Steering Group with the main task of developing and proposing
the implementation plan of the Seamless Data-processing and Forecasting System for
consideration by the sixty-ninth session of the Executive Council,
(3) Resolution 17 (EC-69) – Seamless Data-processing and Forecasting System, which:
(a) Decided that the Executive Council Steering Group on the Seamless Data-processing
and Forecasting System be co-chaired by the presidents of the Commission for Basic
Systems (CBS) and the Commission for Atmospheric Sciences (CAS),
(b) Requested the Steering Group on the Seamless Data-processing and Forecasting
System to develop a detailed implementation plan, in line with the ongoing
development of the WMO Information System and the WMO Integrated Global
Observing System, through consultations with regional associations and technical
commissions, for consideration by the Executive Council at its seventieth session,
(c) Requested also the Secretary-General to arrange for the establishment of the Trust
Fund for the implementation of the seamless Data-processing and Forecasting
System,
(4) Decision 50 (EC-69) – An integrated research and development approach, which endorsed
the principle of filling the gap between research and operations, and emphasized the need
for a continuous joint consultation of research and operations with the user community,
building research guidance related to operational support for impact-based forecast and
risk-based warning systems,
Considering Strategic Objective 2.3 of the draft WMO Strategic Plan for the next financial
period, 2020–2023 (see Recommendation 20 (EC-70)) on forecasting and prediction, which
states: “Enable access and use of numerical analysis and Earth system prediction products, at
all temporal and spatial scales, from the WMO seamless Global Data-processing and Forecasting
System”; and Strategic Objective 3.2 : “Enhance the science-for-service value chain ensuring
scientific and technological advances improve predictive capabilities”,
Considering further that one of the focus areas of Strategic Objective 2.3 is to “Advance the
GDPFS to accommodate increased emphasis on probabilistic forecasting and coupled Earth
system modelling to improve predictions over timescales ranging from long-term climate
variability to seasonal/sub-seasonal to short-term weather events”,
Noting that the implementation of the future Global Data-processing and Forecasting System
(GDPFS) is an extremely complex undertaking requiring ongoing consultation among regional
associations, technical commissions, GDPFS Producing Centres, National Meteorological and
Hydrological Services (NMHSs), academia and other partners to stay abreast of evolving science
and technology in order to regularly refine and adapt implementation plans and activities,
indicating a clear need for dedicated resources to ensure timely and effective implementation,
Noting further that the GDPFS needs to evolve, similarly to its sister programmes within the
World Weather Watch (WWW) Programme, which have evolved respectively from the Global
Telecommunication System (GTS) into the WMO Information System (WIS) and from the Global
Observing System (GOS) into the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS),
Noting with satisfaction the work of the Steering Group on the Seamless Data-processing
and Forecasting System in developing the draft Seamless GDPFS Implementation Plan (see EC-
70/INF. 8(2)),
Recognizing that the consultation with the technical commissions, regional associations, World
Meteorological Centres, Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres and other relevant bodies
is ongoing and will lead to improvements in the Implementation Plan in the coming year,
Endorses the overall approach of the Executive Council Steering Group on Seamless GDPFS
to the implementation of the future Seamless GDPFS, as described in EC-70/INF. 8(2), which
was submitted to the CBS Technical Conference (TECO), the CBS Management Group meeting
(March 2018) and the CAS Management Group (April 2018). The Executive Summary is provided
in the annex to the present recommendation;
Recommends the draft Seamless GDPFS Implementation Plan to the Eighteenth World
Meteorological Congress for approval;
Urges Members:
(1) To provide their comments on the draft Implementation Plan and to assist in the definition
of future pilot projects;
(2) To contribute to the Trust Fund and support secondments to assist in fostering the
Implementation Plan and establishing pilot projects;
Requests the Secretary-General to make available the resources needed to support the
continued development of the Implementation Plan in a manner that strengthens the synergies
between science and services.
Future Seamless Global Data-processing and Forecasting System Implementation

Plan
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Authoritative weather, ocean, water, climate and other related environmental information is
critical in preparing for and responding to natural disasters, and in ensuring the safety and
efficiency of day-to-day socioeconomic activities and sustainable long-term planning and
decision-making. When combined with socioeconomic and vulnerability data the information can
help to understand the impacts of environmental conditions and be used to improve the safety,
security and competitiveness of citizens and economies.
The effect of environmental conditions on society is increasing as the climate changes, as

populations move to mega-cities, as reliance on infrastructure and connectivity grows and
becomes essential to food production, water supply protection and overall quality of life. Recent
scientific and technological advances bring new opportunities for the provision of environmental
information but also present new challenges. This is fundamentally impacting the way
meteorology and hydrology is conducted and delivered globally and is forcing WMO Members
to rethink National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (NMHS) business models and the
World Weather Watch (WWW).
The three components of the WWW are evolving given advances in science and technology and
the evolving needs of society. As the Global Observing System (GOS) evolves into the WMO
Integrated GOS (WIGOS) and the Global Telecommunications System into the WMO Information
System (WIS), the GDPFS needs to evolve into the future seamless GDPFS (S/GDPFS) given:
the need to move beyond the WWW to address societal needs for relevant, coherent and
authoritative weather, water, climate and other environmental information; the trend toward
Earth system modelling to provide products at all timescales and to all sectors and applications
that require such information; the opportunity to leverage the recent unprecedented
improvement in the availability of computing power and the accuracy and forecast lead-time
of numerical prediction across a wide range of time and space scales; the need to consider the
increasing role of the private sector in the global weather enterprise and rethink engagement
with partners; and the need for increased effectiveness and efficiency in delivering on the core
purpose of WMO.
In the context of the S/GDPFS, seamless refers not only to all compartments of the Earth
system, but also all disciplines of the weather–climate–water–environment value cycle
(monitoring and observation, models, forecasting, dissemination and communication, perception
and interpretation, decision-making, end-user products) to deliver tailor-made weather, climate,
water and environmental information covering minutes to centuries and local to global scales.
The GDPFS is an international mechanism that coordinates Members capacities to prepare and
make meteorological analyses and forecast products available to all Members. The Manual on
the GDPFS (WMO-No. 485) provides the overall framework of technical regulations and includes
the criteria for designation of operational centres at Global, Regional and National levels. The
GDPFS has proven to be an effective mechanism to make modeling and prediction capabilities
available to countries that do not have them so that they can provide better meteorological
services to their populations. However, more and more, the private sector is becoming active
in the delivery of value-added meteorological services around the world. The GDPFS evolution
needs to take advantage of this in order to increase its usefulness and maintain its relevance to
Members.
EC-68 endorsed a Vision for a future Seamless Global Data-processing and Forecasting System
(S/GDPFS) with the following characteristics:
(a) The future S/GDPFS will be a flexible and adaptable ecosystem of independent centres that
will expand and strengthen prediction of the environment, making impact-based forecasts
and risk-based warnings accessible, thus enabling Members and partners to make better
informed decisions;
(b) The S/GDPFS will facilitate partnerships and collaboration globally and regionally among
jurisdictions, academia and the private sector to access and make available related
information of relevance to the mandate of WMO across all timescales and domains of the
Earth system;
(c) The S/GDPFS will, as much as possible, share authoritative weather, water, climate and
related environmental data, products and services freely and openly and in a viable and
sustainable way, ensuring no Members are left behind.
This implementation plan is built on the solid foundation of the current GDPFS structure,
considered as a baseline. It lays out areas in which action must be taken in order to develop the
S/GDPFS system, deliver the necessary research and innovation and enhance the accessibility
of the information. A number of overarching challenges need to be addressed as part of the
implementation process. Furthermore, the need for a new interactive model linking science
and services is emphasized. Pilot projects and benchmarks will be designed to advance all
action areas with appropriate time built in for “shakedown” and realistic target dates for
operationalization. In fact, there are many initiatives already under way that can be linked
directly to GDPFS evolution.
This implementation plan will be further developed and refined in preparation for submission to
Cg-18, responding to the decisions of EC-70, in close consultation with the WMCs and RSMCs,
and taking input from all relevant WMO programmes, technical commissions and regional
associations and from external partners.
Overarching Issues
The GDPFS Manual will articulate a business model and will have built-in processes and
mechanisms to ensure flexibility, sustainability and long-term relevance.
Governance mechanisms will be improved to identify and fill internal gaps in capabilities,
broaden coverage to include Earth system compartments while avoiding proliferation of centres
and duplication of effort, and sharpen the WMO designation process.
All facilities of the future S/GDPFS platforms will adhere to a Quality Management System and
will be regularly audited for compliance with designation criteria. Verification procedures will
be established with reporting and tracking of product quality. Mechanisms will be developed
to identify end users and obtain their feedback and initiate activities to provide the necessary
improvements.
A strategy to develop a skilled, trained, knowledgeable, innovative and diverse workforce will
be implemented. Training methodologies will be implemented to increase the capacity within
NMHSs to use S/GDPFS platforms, information and tools.
Key sectors of the weather enterprise will be identified, and interfaces designed to enable a
smooth interaction by all players involved. Networking people with different kinds of knowledge
and ways of tackling problems will be leveraged to promote innovation in the Earth system
sciences and a better link will be established between WMO activities and related existing
initiatives.
A culture of co-designing future activities that involves all players will facilitate achievement of
some of the Sustainable Development Goals and could leverage access to financial resources
from the societal sectors where effective user engagement is taking place or from international
funding structures.
System and services action areas
Integration and customization
Through this action area, WMO will evaluate and foster the development of seamless services
using the outputs and results of the Quality Management System (QMS) which will assess the
technical and scientific quality of the services including the value to members and users.
Interoperability
The future S/GDPFS will be able to exchange and use data from a variety of sources, including
vulnerability and exposure data to facilitate impact-based forecasting and risk-based warnings
across different disciplines.
Coordination and regulations
The future S/GDPFS will benefit from a higher level of coordination internally, with other WMO
systems and with external agencies and organizations.
Research and innovation action areas
Science for services
Research and innovation will strengthen the science linkages among compartments of the Earth
system to spawn the development of innovative products on all time-space scales, adapt to new
emerging technologies, and promote socioeconomic research within the weather enterprise
value cycle. Key elements will be modularity, operational-oriented development of modelling
and data tools, and open-source strategy. A rolling review will be established to understand
user requirements in all socioeconomic sectors acts as a key input to research in support of the
development of impact-based services.
Seamless prediction
All compartments of the Earth system as well as disciplines of the weather enterprise value
cycle will be advanced through seamless prediction. Research in all relevant disciplines will
facilitate delivery of tailor-made environmental information from minutes to decades and from
global to local.
Accessibility and web platform action areas
Availability and visibility
The system will provide access to data, models and products in a user-friendly manner,
ensuring interoperability and integration with other systems, geospatial reference data,
metadata and advanced standards and documentation. Technological aspects such as federated
nodes and bandwidth issues will be considered and linked to WIS development. The whole S/
GDPFS infrastructure will be visible and easy to identify.
Usability: monitoring software and user-oriented tools
Software infrastructure will produce web tools for handling data and creating on-demand
products based on core requirements; the maintenance of metadata and infrastructure will be
clarified in collaboration with WIS-WIGOS. The usability of the future S/GDPFS will be enhanced
significantly, considering aspects such as authenticity of the source, quality of access and cost
effectiveness. Focus areas are providing tools/documentation on how to combine/interpret
multiple datasets, providing guidance on seamless products (help desk services), developing
integrated web tools for tailoring information, ensuring local ownership and developing
downstream statistics.
Developing an interactive model linking science and services
A new interactive model for integrating science and services will increase the effectiveness
of research to operations knowledge transfer to provide improved weather, climate, water
and related environmental services to Members and include multiple interactions between
the research and operational communities to address the needs of users, stakeholders and
decision-makers.
A key part of the implementation of the future S/GDPFS will be the definition and carrying out
of benchmarks, pilot projects and test beds. These can, for example, allow some of the more
challenging aspects to be tested in a research or quasi-operational setting. Currently a number
of potential activities have been identified around:
• Developing and strengthening regional partnerships e.g. around the new RSMC on
nowcasting in Japan and the existing SWFDP to co-design activities, develop products of
mutual benefit and work together on verification;
• Seamless prediction at the weather-climate interface e.g. by leveraging the Polar Prediction
Project to engage and determine stakeholder requirements to identify how the future
requirements might develop across a range of time and space scales;
• Seamless Prediction from minutes to hours: enabling a seamless transition from

nowcasting to numerical weather prediction in a probabilistic framework; e.g. around the
RSMCs on nowcasting, limited-area deterministic weather prediction, and limited-area
ensemble numerical prediction in Offenbach (Germany) and the WWRP;
• Developing public-private partnerships e.g. leveraging pilot projects in the field of big
data and analytics currently underway in Canada and the US with IBM and others to
demonstrate the potential of these private sector applications;
• Seamless prediction at multiple geographic scales e.g. developing integrated air quality
monitoring, prediction and forecast systems in Africa under the auspices of Global
Atmosphere Watch from Pan-African to Urban scale to inform populations of expected
acute pollution events;
• Developing probabilistic products e.g. a pilot project to link the CHAMP project with
GLOFAS to develop experimental hydrological products such as ensemble streamflow
forecasts, flood warnings, and net basin supply and make them visible and accessible;
• Assessing future multiscale requirements e.g. a joint activity of the Lead Centre for
Long-range Forecasting and the Seasonal to Sub-seasonal Prediction Project to enhance
the visibility of the Lead Centre, improve access to data and quantify its usage, define
and implement an interactive science-to-services approach based on the value cycle for
selected applications.
The future S/GDPFS will bring benefits to different user communities including:
• stakeholders responsible for high-impact events preparedness;
• sectors using weather and climate information (e.g. energy, agriculture);
• health sector;
• urban stakeholders and city planners.
Those benefits will include:
• Members are enabled to harness the power of environment prediction;
• Enhanced information is available to make quicker and better decisions;
• Improved access to information and data by NMHS saves time and resources, allowing
them to add more value to their services;
• Members will have the tools and skills to handle the growing and complex data and
information;
• NMHSs will have more time to apply skills and expertise through further automation of
routine tasks;
• New observations, new science and new technologies are pulled through into operational
services; and
• By 2025, in line with WIS2 implementation plan milestones, the further development of S/
GDPFS will result in substantial benefits for developing NMHSs.
While this IP can be considered a “roadmap” it is by no means the detailed work plans that are
needed to identify specific deliverables, their interdependencies, the resources required and
identification of responsible persons or working groups in carrying them out. It will be important
for the Steering Group to task development of detailed plans for implementation to the various
constituent bodies and their working structures as soon as possible. The Steering Group must
be vigilant in terms of overarching policy concerns and from time to time review and seek
guidance from Congress/EC where appropriate e.g. related to governance, data policy, role of
the private sector, etc.
The design and development phase will continue until at least the end of 2019 in order to
consolidate project participants and contributing stakeholders. Following approval of the
implementation plan by Cg-18 (2019), initial implementation activities will start in mid-2019 and
by 2025, the core services required for the operation of S/GDPFS will be fully operational.
Building on experience from SWFDP, a Project Office with a full-time programme manager
will be established within the Secretariat to coordinate the implementation and support of all
implementation activities.
Key directions of the polar and high-mountain agenda for the next WMO financial
period (2020–2023)
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 40 (Cg-17) – WMO polar and high-mountain activities,
(3) Decision 48 (EC-69) – Polar and high-mountain regions priority activity,
Noting the reports of the sixth, seventh and eight sessions of the Executive Council Panel of
Experts on Polar and High-mountains Observations, Research and Services (2015, 2017 and
2018),
Having considered:
(1) The need to scope WMO polar and high-mountain activities within the draft Strategic Plan,
(2) That WMO is an Observer to the Arctic Council and an invited Expert to the Antarctic
Treaty, and the need to provide input on polar policy matters to the Arctic Council and
Antarctic Treaty,
Recommends considering WMO polar and high-mountain activities as part of the WMO
Strategic Plan;
Recommends to Congress draft Resolution XX (Cg-18) – WMO polar and high-mountain

activities, as provided in the annex to the present recommendation;
Requests the Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar and High-mountains Observations,
Research and Services to keep the list of proposed activities under review and to make a final
proposal to Congress (i.e. a revision of the annex to the present recommendation, with details
about each planned activity).
WMO polar and high-mountain activities
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 40 (Cg-17) – WMO polar and high-mountain activities,
(2) Resolution 41 (Cg-17) – Antarctic Observing Network,
(3) Resolution 48 (Cg-17) – Global Integrated Polar Prediction System,
(4) Resolution 49 (Cg-17) – Year of Polar Prediction,
(5) Resolution 43 (Cg-17) – Global Cryosphere Watch,
(6) The WMO Strategic Plan,
(7) Resolution 40 (Cg-XII) – WMO policy and practice for the exchange of meteorological
meteorological activities,
Noting Manual on WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WMO-No. 1160), and the
regulation of the Antarctic Observing Network (AntON),
Having considered:
(1) That considerations 1 to 11 of Resolution 40 (Cg-17) with regard to the rationale for WMO
polar and high-mountain activities remain valid,
(2) The societal needs in both polar and high-mountain regions related to weather, water and
climate changes, and the risks to society related to water scarcity and disaster resilience in
high-mountain regions,
(3) The achievements of the Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar and High-mountain
Observations, Research and Services (EC-PHORS) in ensuring coordination of operational
activities with other international organizations active in polar and high-mountain regions
and in engaging WMO technical commissions and regional associations in the work of the
Panel,
(4) The role of WMO being an Observer to the Arctic Council and an invited Expert to the
Antarctic Treaty;
Decides:
(1) That an integrated approach continues to be needed to provide required services to users
and advice to governments about adaptation and mitigation, based on an understanding
of the global impact of changes in polar and high-mountain regions, and as the changing
climate in the polar regions will have an impact on weather and climate in other regions of
the world, teleconnection impact studies will be part of this integrated approach;
(2) That the future priorities for WMO Polar and High-Mountain Regions Activities within the
new Strategic Plan should be those provided in Annex to this Resolution;
(3) That operational and research observing networks including AntON, the observing
component of GCW, oceanographic observations and other activities in polar and High-
Mountain regions, should be integrated within the framework of WIGOS and WIS;
(4) That concerted efforts continue to be made to engage Members, technical commissions
and regional associations, as well as the World Weather and Climate Research Programmes
and other relevant research and international bodies, to improve services in high-latitude
and high altitude regions by promoting observations and predictive capability on timescales
from hours to centuries;
Invites Members, particularly those that have operational activities in polar and high-mountain
regions:
(1) To ensure continuity of their weather, climate, hydrology and related environmental
activities in polar and high-mountain regions;
(2) To ensure that appropriate hydrometeorological and related environmental data from
publicly funded research is made available to the operational community in real time or
near real time;
(3) To provide additional observations in polar and high-mountain regions by using manned
and automatic hydrometeorological stations, atmospheric soundings, remote-sensing
systems and other geophysical observatories on land, by recruiting additional voluntary
observing ships, by equipping aircraft with appropriate means of recording and distributing
observations, and by deploying automated observing platforms on and under the sea and
ice, in order to meet the needs of numerical weather prediction, hydrological services,
climate studies and research programmes, including in particular the Year of Polar
Prediction Special Observing Periods (SOPs);
(4) To enhance their satellite programmes in delivering appropriate satellite observing system
infrastructure and products and services required for polar and high-mountain regions;
(5) To consider the possibility of cooperating with other Members in sharing the costs of
reopening and operating previously functioning stations, in expanding existing stations or
in deploying new observing and communication systems;
(6) To support WMO polar and high-mountain activities by providing both human and financial
resources in its endeavours to enhance observations, research and services in polar and
high-mountain regions;
Encourages Members to liaise with all their national groups that may have operational
activities in polar and high-mountain regions;
Requests the Executive Council:
(1) To promote the coordination of weather, climate, hydrology and related environmental
activities in polar and high-mountain regions and facilitate execution of this Resolution,
(2) To ensure close collaboration with other international organizations concerned such as
the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, the Arctic Council, the Intergovernmental
Oceanographic Commission of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization, the Group on Earth Observations and the International Science Council
and their relevant bodies (for example, the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research,
the International Arctic Science Committee, the International Association of Cryospheric
Sciences) and other relevant associations of the International Union of Geodesy and
Geophysics, the Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs, the Forum of
Arctic Research Operators, the Third Pole Environment, and the International Centre for
Integrated Mountain Development,
(3) To ensure that WMO polar and high-mountain priority activities described in the Annex to
this Resolution are aligned with the WMO Strategic Plan;
Requests the regional associations and the technical commissions to support WMO polar and
high-mountain activities;
Requests the Secretary-General to bring the present resolution to the attention of all
concerned.
Note: This resolution replaces Resolution 40 (Cg-17), which is no longer in force.
Priority activities for polar and high-mountain regions for the next financial period, as
part of the WMO Strategic Plan
The following priority activities are proposed for WMO polar and high-mountain activities as part
of the Strategic Plan:
No. Activity Strategic Goals
1 Surface and Space Observations 2, 3
2 Polar Predictions and Services, including Climate 1 and 2

Services
3 GCW Preoperational Phase 1, 2 and 4
4 High-Mountain Activities 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
5 Transition from Research to Operation and Services 2, 3 and 5
6 Resources and Partnership 2, 3 and 5
[Secretariat note: The above activities are described in detail in EC-70/INF. 9; EC-PHORS is
tasked to further elaborate them in the view to propose a new version of this annex with details
about each activity]
Preoperational phase of the Global Cryosphere Watch
Recalling:
(2) Resolution 27 (EC-70) – Terms of reference of the Executive Council Panel of Experts on
Polar and High-mountain Observations, Research and Services,
(3) Resolution 29 (EC-70) – Global Cryosphere Watch Surface Observing Network,

Noting the recommendations of the eighth session of the Executive Council Panel of Experts on
Having considered:
(1) The overall progress made in the development of the Global Cryosphere Watch (GCW) as a
cross-cutting, end-to-end activity within the WMO Programmes,
(2) The progress made on engaging research and operational organizations in establishing the
Global Cryosphere Watch Surface Observing Network, including its regulatory framework,
(3) The joint efforts of GCW and the Arctic and Third Pole Regional Climate Centres (under
development) to define relevant cryosphere-specific climate products,
(4) The engagement of GCW at the regional level,
Recommends to Congress draft Resolution XX (Cg-18) – Preoperational phase of the Global

Cryosphere Watch, as provided in the annex to the present recommendation.
Preoperational phase of the Global Cryosphere Watch
Noting:
(2) Resolution 27 (EC-70) – Terms of Reference of the Executive Council Panel of Experts on
(3) Resolution 29 (EC-70) – Global Cryosphere Watch Surface Observing Network,
(4) Decision 21 (RA II-16) – Development of the Asia High-Mountain Global Cryosphere Watch
Observing Network,
(5) Decision 20 (RA IV-17) – Development and implementation of the Global Cryosphere Watch
in the polar and high-mountain regions of Regional Association IV,
(6) Decision RA VI-17/18 on the RA VI engagement with the Global Cryosphere Watch,
(7) Resolution 1 (CHy-15) – Response of the Commission to decisions of Congress of relevance

to hydrology and water resource management,
(8) Resolution 8 (JCOMM-5) – Services and Forecasting Systems Programme Area, and Annex
to Resolution 8 (JCOMM-5),
(9) Decision 6 (JCOMM-5) – Collaboration with the Global Cryosphere Watch,
Further Noting:
(1) The GCW Implementation Plan, as updated under the auspices of the Executive Council,
(2) That GCW is a significant contributor to the implementation of Global Framework for
Climate Services,
(1) The progress made on engaging research and operational organization on establishing
the GCW Surface Observing Network, and development of the GCW Data Portal as a Data
Collection and Production Centre,
(2) That joint efforts between GCW and the Arctic and Third Pole Regional Climate Centres are
resulting in the definition and use of relevant cryosphere specific climate products,
(3) The engagement with the Arctic, Antarctic, and high-mountain scientific communities
on standardization of observations, data exchange, and information on the state of the
cryosphere;
Noting also that the development of GCW has progressed with resources allocated by
Seventeenth Congress, and with support from extra-budgetary resources,
Taking note of the outcome of the WMO High-mountain Summit,
Appreciating the important contributions being made by Members, partner organizations and
programmes towards the implementation of GCW as a mechanism for providing authoritative
information on the state of the world snow and ice resources,
Mindful:
(1) That cryosphere is global, existing in various forms spanning all latitudes and occurring in
approximately 100 countries in addition to the Antarctic regions,
(2) That cryosphere-related feedbacks in the amplification of climate change cause impacts on
weather, climate and water globally;
Decides that the development of GCW will continue during its preoperational phase in the
eighteenth financial period, with the aim proving to Members the benefits of a fully operational,
end-to-end GCW, as a cross cutting activity, from 2024 onward;
Decides further:
(1) That the GCW priorities during the preoperational phase, will be:
(a) Supporting Members in developing national frameworks for cryosphere end-to-end

monitoring and service partnership;
(b) Developing and publishing value added cryosphere products, relevant to water
resource and ecosystems management, to safety (e.g. transportation), to
understanding natural hazards and risks, to energy production, etc.;
(c) Establishing the GCW Data Portal as a Data Collection or Production Centre (DCPC)
in the WMO Information System (WIS), thus improving the access to, and the
management of quality of current and past cryosphere data, information, and
products;
(d) Developing and publishing GCW regulatory and guidance material, including for
supporting capacity development;
(2) That special priority must be given to those activities which will assist Members in
addressing national cryosphere related priorities (e.g. water resource management,
disaster risk reduction), with a special focus on developing countries;
(1) To approve the draft Plan for the GCW preoperational phase;
(2) To provide oversight of GCW during the preoperational phase;
(3) To re-establish the GCW Steering Group, with strengthened regional representation, to
guide the further implementation of GCW;
(4) To develop a plan for the transition of GCW within the working structure of WMO, by the
end of the eighteenth financial period;
(5) To ensure the representation of agencies undertaking cryosphere related activities;
Requests the regional associations:
(1) To support Members regarding specific cryosphere related priorities within the framework
of the GCW Implementation Plan, subject to availability of resources;
(2) To collaborate with GCW on the development of cryosphere products, capacity

development, and outreach activities, relevant to their Members;
Requests the Technical Commissions to collaborate with GCW in developing technical

standards, guidelines, and products for sustainable cryosphere services;
Urges Members:
(1) To further sustain the observing component of GCW, within the WMO Integrated Global
Observing System, especially in data-sparse regions, and in support of application areas
relying on cryosphere information;
(2) To develop national cryosphere related implementation plans, addressing emerging issues
on climate, water, natural hazards, etc.;
(3) To make historic research and routine cryosphere data available via the GCW Data Portal
or other appropriate Data Collection and Production Centres, and archiving them for
climate purposes;
(4) To include the GCW stations within the framework of the WIGOS Data Quality Management
System;
(5) To contribute to the GCW Trust Fund, facilitating the development of products and services,
as defined in the Implementation Plan;
Invites partner organizations:
(1) To participate in relevant activities during the GCW preoperational phase;
(2) To support the implementation of GCW by contributing with human and financial resources;
(1) To ensure, to the extent possible, within available resources, the appropriate support for
preoperational phase of GCW;
(2) To take the necessary actions to further develop and maintain WMO collaboration in
matters of cryosphere, through GCW, with relevant organizations, agencies, groups and
institutions.
Note: This resolution replaces Resolution 43 (Cg-XVII), which is no longer in force.
Future WMO research and supporting activities
Having considered the recommendations of the seventeenth session of the Commission for
Atmospheric Sciences, as contained in the abridged final report of that session,
Appreciates the work done by the Commission for Atmospheric Sciences and the outcomes of
the Science Summit that preceded the seventeenth session of the Commission;
Recommends to Congress:
(1) Draft Resolution XX/1 (Cg-18) – Integrated and coordinated WMO research to serve
society, as laid out in Annex 1 to the present recommendation;
(2) Draft Resolution XX/2 (Cg-18) – A seamless research structure for WMO, as laid out in
Annex 2 to the present recommendation;
(3) Draft Resolution xx/3 (Cg-18) – Seamless regional research for water, as laid out in Annex
3 to the present recommendation;
(4) Draft Decision XX (Cg-18) – Creating an environment for innovation and its optimal
resourcing, as laid out in Annex 4 to the present recommendation;
Considering the need for promoting research across temporal and spatial scales, and the
outcomes of the mid-term review of the Sub-seasonal to Seasonal Prediction project (see EC-
70/INF. 10.1),
Considering further the advances made in downscaling atmospheric chemical composition

forecasting, and the outcomes of the meeting on air-quality forecasting for Africa (see EC-70/
INF. 10.1),
Endorses the second phase of the Sub-seasonal to Seasonal Prediction project;
Requests Members to support the Monitoring, Analysis and Prediction of Air Quality project as
a priority activity for Region I;
Taking note of the request made by the seventeenth session of the Commission for
Atmospheric Sciences to the Environmental Pollution and Atmospheric Chemistry Scientific
Steering Committee to develop a recommendation on the use of low-cost sensors for air-quality
observations,
Noting with appreciation the statement of the Commission for Atmospheric Sciences
entitled:Low-cost sensors for the measurement of atmospheric composition: overview of topic
and future applications (see EC-70/INF. 10.1),
Requests the Commission for Atmospheric Sciences, in collaboration with the Commission for
Instruments and Methods of Observation, to continue developing guidance on good practices
for characterization and utilization of emerging measurement technologies, including low-cost
sensors and reference instruments;
Recommends to consider the representatives of the regional associations in the Commission

for Atmospheric Sciences Management Group as a crucial point of contact for WMO research
programmes, and to task the regional representatives with advocating the agreed priorities of
the region and with promoting the interaction of regional associations with the WMO research
programmes for mutual benefit;
Requests the Secretary-General, within available resources, to provide support to ocean

research in particular in least developed countries, developing countries and small island
developing States, in collaboration with relevant bodies.
Annex 1 to Recommendation 18 (EC-70)
Integrated and coordinated WMO research to serve society
Recalling:
(1) Decision 50 (EC-69) – An integrated research and development approach, which includes
the main principles to fill the gap between research and operations,
(2) Decision 41 (EC-69) – Guidelines for the development of an integrated operational

platform to meet urban service delivery needs, which requested to “expedite work on a
Guide for Urban Integrated Hydrometeorological/Climate/Environment Services, using the
expertise of the WMO GAW (Global Atmosphere Watch) Urban Research Meteorology and
Environment (GURME)” project, which would improve the connection between research and
operations,
Recognizing:
(1) The advances in Earth system prediction that integrate different time scales and
compartments, and the growing need of the user community for more sophisticated
services,
(2) That better integration of science and services requires a move from the current linear
model of sporadically transferring research results to operations, to an interactive model in
which stakeholders assess and articulate their future needs, researchers work in dialogue
with stakeholders to define and implement appropriate research programmes, the research
results are transferred to operations at appropriate intervals, and stakeholder needs
and research programmes are refined taking into account the knowledge and experience
gained,
(3) That the World Climate Research Programme and programmes of the Commission for
Atmospheric Sciences (the World Weather Research Programme and Global Atmosphere
Watch) draw on the capabilities of a much larger science community than those in
National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs), and that those capabilities are
fundamental for advancing the WMO strategy for service delivery,
(4) That WMO research activities have a central role in promoting innovation across different
service applications and that their coherence and consistency are an added value for WMO
in promoting its international profile,
Noting that the development of specific services in diverse application areas requires
involvement of the scientific community at all stages of the production chain,
Decides that WMO research needs to be better integrated and more closely coordinated across
weather, climate, water and related environmental domains in order to provide the necessary
scientific and technical advances needed to address the growing need for targeted and
societally relevant services and to create an attractive environment in which NMHSs, academic
institutions, the private sector and end users can engage in research to their mutual benefit;
Requests WMO technical commissions and regional associations:
(1) To co-design in advance, when designing operational projects that rely on research, with
WMO research Programmes the full range of activities that are required to bring a new or
improved service or supporting system from conception through the different phases of
production;
(2) To promote the development of integrated research pilots to foster the value chain
approach by jointly identifying research needs based on regional priorities for
meteorological and environmental services;
Urges Members to improve connections between NMHSs and research institutions and
academia on a national level to ensure that research responds to the requirements for the
development of new services, and that the advances in research are appropriately included in
operations;
(1) To take all necessary actions, within available budgetary resources, to ensure a strongly
coordinated and integrated WMO research function to support science-based services that
will promote innovation across the Organization;
(2) To ensure a coordination mechanism within the Secretariat, led by the Research
Department, to identify and coordinate, according to the agreed principles of the
integrated research and development approach, WMO activities aimed at developing new
or improving existing services and supporting systems in the weather, climate, water and
related environmental domains;
(3) To assist Members in promoting research as part of the development of new and
enhancement of existing services, particularly in developing countries, by promoting
capacity-building, facilitating training and exchange of scientists, and providing guidance
and advice, as required, within available budgetary resources;
(4) To take all necessary actions to initiate, develop and maintain WMO collaboration in
matters related to weather, climate, water and related environmental research with
relevant organizations, agencies, groups and institutions, from both the public and private
sectors.
A seamless research structure for WMO
Noting:
(1) That leveraging the predictive skill at a broad range of temporal and spatial scales that are
inherent in the various components of the Earth system and their interactions would allow
Members to improve their services,
(2) That the Data-processing and Forecasting System (DPFS), through Resolution 17 (EC-69) –
Seamless Data-processing and Forecasting System, will become a pillar in the future WMO
Service Delivery Strategy,
(3) Decision 50 (EC-69) – An integrated research and development approach, which endorsed
the principles towards better integrated research and development support to Members,
management, in support of the ambitious work plan of the Commission for Hydrology,
Recalling that the implementation plans of the World Weather Research Programme (WWRP)
and of the Global Atmosphere Watch (GAW) Programme, endorsed by Decision 61 (EC-68)
– World Weather Research Programme Implementation Plan for the period 2016–2023, and
Decision 62 (EC-68) – Global Atmosphere Watch Implementation Plan for the period
2016–2023, respectively, call for development of integrated modelling products and services,
Considering that:
(1) Advancing the scientific understanding of the Earth system has been endorsed by Decision
65 (EC-69) – Preparation of WMO Strategic Plan 2020–2023, as a strategic objective
(strategic objective 3.1) of the Plan,
(2) Collaborations among GAW, WWRP and other partners are essential to make research
advances in the emerging strategic areas of WMO, in particular on aspects of model
development, the water cycle and urban development,
(3) The ongoing Sub-seasonal to Seasonal Prediction Project (S2S Project) (Resolution 16
(EC‑64) – Sub-seasonal to Seasonal Prediction Project), Polar Prediction Project (Resolution
17 (EC-64) – Polar Prediction Project), High-impact Weather Project (Resolution 12 (EC-
66) – High-impact Weather Project), GAW Urban Research Meteorology and Environment
Project, and Integrated Global Greenhouse Gas Information System (Decision 51 (EC-
69) – The Integrated Global Greenhouse Gas Information System Implementation Plan)
complement each other towards a seamless-oriented research structure,
Agrees that:
(1) Research plays a critical role in developing future predictive seamless systems and in
underpinning decisions on the development of related observing systems for weather,
climate, water and environment;
(2) The Working Group on Numerical Experimentation should play a central role in coordinating
the development of seamless research components across GAW, WWRP and the World
Climate Research Programme (WCRP), including interacting and building connections with
the Commission for Basic Systems (CBS) and Commission for Hydrology (CHy) subsidiary
bodies that work on aspects of numerical experimentation and with JCOMM on marine
research;
Requests the Joint Steering Committee of WCRP and the Scientific Steering Committees of
WWRP and GAW to provide the Commission for Atmospheric Sciences Management Group
with suggestions on how to further strengthen collaborative efforts between the Programmes
mentioned in the preceding paragraph to support innovation for DPFS;
Requests the Scientific Steering Committee of WWRP and the Joint Steering Committee of
WCRP to encourage CHy and the Commission for Agricultural Meteorology to further promote
the use of S2S Project database products, and strengthen interactive feedbacks between multi-
disciplinary research activities within WMO;
Requests the Secretary-General to align the appropriate research activities and resources
in WMO to optimally support the development and enhancement of DPFS and of the Global
Framework for Climate Services;
Requests Members to actively participate in research activities for predictive seamless

systems, to contribute to the trust funds of the above-mentioned Programmes and to provide
strong support for the implementation of project activities in their respective countries;
Decides:
(1) That GAW, WWRP and WCRP, in collaboration with relevant subsidiary bodies of CBS, CHy
and JCOMM, shall play a major role in promoting research across temporal and spatial
scales and across environmental domains towards a unified, integrated Earth system
modelling approach in an interactive set-up that ensures the transfer of research concepts,
tools and techniques to operations as informed by users;
(2) To facilitate this integrated and interactive approach by organizing an overarching Open
Science Conference on the Earth System, possibly in 2022.
Seamless regional research for water
Noting:
(1) Resolution 12 (EC-66) – High-impact Weather Project, which established the

Project,
(2) Decision 5 (EC-69) – Flood forecasting, which requested the relevant technical
commissions to ensure that the future Global Data-processing and Forecasting System is
an operational system that has a direct interface to applications such as the Flash Flood
Guidance System,
management, which expressed support for the ambitious work plan of the Commission for
Hydrology (CHy),
Noting further:
(1) That sustainable development requires a systematic assessment of water resources from
global to regional and local scales,
(2) The common interests of the World Weather Research Programme (WWRP), the World
Climate Research Programme and the International Groundwater Resources Assessment
Centre in the monitoring of groundwater and dissemination of data,
(3) The need to develop links between the Global Atmosphere Watch Programme, WWRP
and the Global Energy and Water Cycle Experiment on aspects of extreme events and
precipitation processes, such as quantitative precipitation forecasts and urban flooding,
(4) The role of water vapour as a climate driver and an atmospheric chemical constituent,
Stressing:
(1) The need to strengthen WMO regional activities related to the understanding and
assessment of the coupled water cycle, avoiding redundancy and duplications across
weather, climate, water and environment programmes,
(2) The need to establish integrated pilot projects, which should be developed in collaboration
with key partners , as well as with stakeholders and users, following the example the
Hydrological Cycle in the Mediterranean Experiment,
Requests the technical commissions, in particular CHy and the Commission for Basic Systems,
to co-design research activities focusing on the exchange processes between Earth system
components related to water, in cooperation with the WMO research Programmes;
Requests the Secretary-General to strengthen or establish cooperation on water-related issues

with relevant United Nations and other international organizations.
Draft Decision XX (Cg-18)
Creating an environment for innovation and its optimal resourcing
Recalling:
(1) Decision 73 (EC-68) – Cooperation between the public and private sectors for the benefit
of society, which promotes a framework for fruitful collaboration between National
Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) and the private sector for the benefit of
society,
(2) Decision 50 (EC-69) – An integrated research and development approach, which

endorsed the principles towards better integrated research and development, and among
which it stressed the role of co-design and continuous consultation between users and
stakeholders,
(3) Decision 69 (EC-68) – Resource mobilization, which approved the WMO Resource
Mobilization Strategy that highlighted, among potential mechanisms, appropriate
partnerships with the private sector and increased focus on research funding mechanisms,
(4) Resolution 17 (EC-69) – Seamless Data-processing and Forecasting System, which

requested the Steering Group on the Seamless Data-processing and Forecasting System
(DPFS) to develop a detailed implementation plan, and the Commission for Atmospheric
Sciences (CAS) to utilize its forthcoming Science Summit and its seventeenth session
as a platform for interaction between the Commission for Basic Systems, CAS and
representatives of other technical commissions and regional associations, to define the
scientific progress needed to realize the future seamless DPFS,
Recalling also Decision 65 (EC-69) – Preparation of WMO Strategic Plan 2020–2030, which
endorsed the overarching priorities of the WMO Strategic Plan for that period, which contains
as goals advancing targeted research with the purpose of improved understanding of the Earth
system and the implications to weather, climate, water and related environmental matters, and
enhancing predictive capabilities in a seamless context through the application of scientific and
technological advances,
Noting that:
(1) The development of integrated services for urban environments was requested by
Members and supported by the technical commissions and the Global Framework for
Climate Services, and that development of such services requires advances in science and
innovation to resolve processes on different spatial and temporal scales,
(2) Research and operations need to work hand in hand with user needs as a target in
advancing the seamless DPFS,
(3) Research activities are at the base of any innovation, and that these require adequate
investment, the involvement of a critical mass of experts through shared facilities and
virtual partnership, and a culture that recognizes and values excellence,
Mindful that non-optimal use of resources in research and the duplication of effort between
different stakeholders lead to the depletion of innovation potential,
Satisfied with the fact that the private sector and foundations create opportunities for
innovation through open calls and competition,
Recognizing that research needs a balanced approach, combining long-term activities that will
support continuous improvement and short-term innovation for targeted challenges,
Agrees that:
(1) There is a need to join efforts between NMHSs, the private sector, civil society and the
academic world in promoting partnerships at the national, regional and global levels;
(2) There is a need to involve key international partners in co-designing WMO research
activities with a special focus on the seamless DPFS and on cross-cutting areas of interest;
(3) There is a need for a formal engagement of key international stakeholders in setting up the
WMO research agenda in order to deliver the WMO Strategic Plan and long-term goals and
in providing concrete inputs to research implementation and governance;
Urges Members:
(1) To contribute to the WMO research coordination efforts through global partnerships
towards a dramatic increase in predictive skills, to be materialized in improved services of
the seamless DPFS;
(2) To sustain funding for long-term research activities and fund research supporting the
development of new products and services, including research activities that incorporate
social sciences;
(3) To work closely with funding agencies and other resourcing mechanisms to ensure inclusion
of the unified scientific priorities defined by the WMO Strategic Plan and long-term goals in
their agendas;
Encourages NMHSs to take a more active part in innovation calls supported by the private
sector;
Requests technical commissions and regional associations to work towards the establishment
of centres of excellence and virtual networks to be driven by ambitious scientific targets in
order to catalyse innovation, for example using the Severe Weather Forecasting Demonstration
Project as an opportunity to foster innovation through co-design between research and
operations;
Requests Members to ensure support of communication systems to allow distributed access

to the centres of excellence and virtual networks and for effective cooperation on research
challenges;
(1) To take all necessary action, within the available budgetary resources, to encourage the
culture of innovation and research across the Organization;
(2) To assist Members in establishing global partnerships towards the development and
utilization of distributed centres of excellence;
(3) To assist Members in mobilizing resources through research funding mechanisms;
(4) To promote the value of research and innovation in partnership with the private sector and
other stakeholders in civil society within WMO, and acknowledge the excellence of groups
for their contribution;
(5) To ensure that excellence in science is recognized through appropriate incentive schemes;
(6) To take all necessary actions to initiate, develop and maintain WMO collaboration on
matters related to weather, climate, water and related environmental research with
relevant organizations, agencies, groups and institutions, from both public and private
sectors.
WMO mandatory publications and distribution policy for

the eighteenth financial period
Recalling Resolution 58 (Cg-17) – Publications for the seventeenth financial period,
Having considered the report of the Secretary-General on production of publications during

the seventeenth financial period, and relevant recommendations by constituent bodies,
Recommends to Congress draft Resolution XX (Cg-18) – WMO mandatory publications and

distribution policy for the eighteenth financial period, as provided in the annex to the present
recommendation.
WMO mandatory publications and distribution policy

for the eighteenth financial period
THE CONGRESS,
Recalling Resolution 58 (Cg-17) – Publications for the seventeenth financial period,
Reaffirming that the free and unrestricted dissemination of WMO publications to the
operational, scientific, educational and other interested institutions of Members promotes
awareness and broader use of WMO standards, guides and other products,
Reaffirming further:
(1) That the management of the Publications Programme, notably the presentation and
method of reproduction of publications and the most economical use of the available
publication funds, including the revenue from sales of publications, shall be the
responsibility of the Secretary-General within the framework established by the World
Meteorological Congress and taking into account the guidance given by the Executive
Council,
(2) That additional publications may be produced during the eighteenth financial period given
the availability of the necessary funding,
Mindful that web distribution is given preference over the distribution of hard-copy versions,
which are reserved only for exceptional cases,
Adopts the list of WMO publications proposed by the Executive Council as mandatory for
production during the eighteenth financial period and included in the regular budget as provided
in Annex 1 to the present resolution;
Approves the Distribution Policy of WMO Publications as provided in Annex 2 to the present
resolution;
Requests the Secretary-General to provide the Executive Council with the appropriate
mechanism and resources for the regular review of the Publications Programme, and to allocate
funding within the available budget and to take the necessary measures for translating and
publishing more technical publications as requested by Members;
Invites Members to provide in-kind support to translation and publishing and through
contributing to WMO Mandatory Publications Trust Fund to have more technical publications
available in all WMO official and working languages.
Note: This Resolution replaces Resolution 58 (Cg-17), which remains in force until
31 December 2019.
Annex 1 to draft Resolution XX (Cg-18)
List of WMO publications proposed as mandatory for production during

the eighteenth financial period and included in the budget proposal
Publication Number Languages Responsibility
1. Governance and technical

publications
Basic documents WMO-No. 15 A, C, E, F, R, S CER
Abridged reports with resolutions of A, C, E, F, R, S ASGO

Congress
Abridged reports with resolutions of the A, C, E, F, R, S ASGO

Executive Council
Abridged reports with resolutions Same as DRA

and recommendations of the regional for session
associations documentation
Abridged reports with resolutions and A, C, E, F, R, S Technical

recommendations of the technical departments
commissions
Abridged reports with resolutions of the A, C, E, F, R, S GFCS Office

Intergovernmental Board on Climate
Services
Abridged reports with resolutions of the E GFCS Office

Management Committee of IBCS
Resolutions of Congress and the WMO-No. 508 E CER

Executive Council
WMO Strategic Plan A, C, E, F, R, S CER
WMO Operating Plan 2020–2023 A, C, E, F, R, S CER
Technical Regulations, Volume I WMO-No. 49 A, C, E, F, R, S Technical

commissions,
technical
departments
Technical Regulations, Volume II WMO-No. 49 A, C, E, F, R, S CAeM, WDS
Technical Regulations, Volume III WMO-No. 49 A, C, E, F, R, S Chy, CLW
Technical Regulations, Annexes:
Annex I – International Cloud Atlas, WMO –No. 407 A, C, E, F, R, S CIMO, OBS

Volume I – Manual on the Observation of
Clouds and Other Meteors
Annex II – Manual on Codes, Volume I.1 WMO-No. 306 E, F, R, S CBS, OBS

(Part A – Alphanumeric Codes);
Volume I.2 (Part B – Binary Codes, Part
C – Common Features to Binary and
Alphanumeric Codes), Volume I.3 (Part D
– Representations derived from data
models)
Annex III – Manual on the Global WMO-No. 386 E, F, R, S CBS, OBS

Telecommunication System
Annex IV – Manual on the Global Data- WMO-No. 485 E, F, R, S CBS, OBS

processing and Forecasting System
Annex V– Manual on the Global WMO-No. 544 E, F, R, S CBS, OBS

Observing System, Volume I
Annex VI– Manual on Marine WMO-No. 558 E, F, R, S JCOMM, OBS and

Meteorological Services, Volume I WDS
Annex VII – Manual on the WMO WMO-No. 1060 A, C, E, F, R, S CBS, OBS

Information System
Annex VIII – Manual on the WMO WMO-No. 1160 A, C, E, F, R, S CBS, OBS

Integrated Global Observing System
Manual on Flood Risk Mapping WMO-No. E CHy, CLW
Guide to Meteorological Instruments and WMO-No. 8 A, C, E, F, R, S CIMO, OBS

Methods of Observation
Guide to Climatological Practices WMO-No. 100 A, C, E, F, R, S CCl, CLW
Guide to Hydrological Practices, WMO-No. 168 E, F, R, S Chy, CLW

Volumes I and II
Guide to Marine Meteorological Services WMO-No. 471 E, F, R, S JCOMM, OBS
Guide to the Global Observing System WMO-No. 488 C, E, F, R, S CBS, OBS
Guide to the Practices for Meteorological WMO-No. 732 E, F, R, S CaeM, WDS

Offices Serving Aviation
Guide to Public Weather Services WMO-No. 834 E, F, R, S CBS, WDS

Practices
Guide to aeronautical meteorological WMO-No. 904 E, F, R, S CaeM, WDS

services cost recovery: principles and
guidance
Guidelines on the role, operation and WMO-No. 1003 A, C, E, F, R, S CHy, CLW

management of NHS
Guide to the WMO Information System WMO-No. 1061 A, C, E, F, R, S CBS, OBS
Guide to Information Technology Security WMO-No. 1115 E CBS, OBS
Guide to participation in Radio Frequency WMO-No. 1159 A, C, E, F, R, S CBS, OBS

Coordination
Guide to the WMO Integrated Global WMO-No. 1165 A, C, E, F, R, S CBS, OBS

Observing System
WIGOS Metadata Standard WMO-No. 1192 A, C, E, F, R, S
Use of radio spectrum for meteorology: WMO-No. 1197 A, C, E, F, R, S CBS, OBS

weather, water and climate monitoring
and prediction
Guide to Aircraft-Based Observations WMO-No. 1200 A, C, E, F, R, S CBS, OBS
Guide to General Service Delivery WMO-No. A, C, E, F, R, S CBS, WDS
Guide to information management WMO-No. A, C, E, F, R, S CBS, OBS
Satellite Data Telecommunication WMO-No. A, C, E, F, R, S CBS, OBS

Handbook
Technical Reference on the Global Data WMO-No. A, C, E, F, R, S CCl, CLW

Management Framework for Climate
2. General information publications

WMO Annual Report All CER
WMO Bulletin WMO-No. E, F, R, S CER
MeteoWorld E, F CER
World Meteorological Day package E, F, R, S CER
WMO Statement on the State of the A, C, E, F, R, S CLPA/CLW

Global Climate
WMO Greenhouse Bulletin A, C, E, F, R, S ARE
GFCS Success Stories A, C, E, F, R, S GFCS office
Distribution policy of WMO publications
1. Distribution to Members and experts from NMHSs
1.1 To further the objectives of the Organization and its Members, the Secretariat pursues
WMO publications sales and distribution policies, including pricing, within the framework
established by Congress and taking into account the guidance given by the Executive Council
and the views of WMO Members.
1.2 The Secretariat should make publications freely available online and inform Members
and experts from NMHSs of each release. Unlimited and free distribution of WMO publications
(both, in low and high resolution) to Members and experts from NMHSs would be effected by
electronic means. Any requests for hard copies within that free distribution would be met only
in the case of least developed country Members, using the most cost-effective way, for example
by providing a printout of the electronic files.
1.3 Certain publications, like some technical ones and public information material, such as
the WMO Bulletin, annual report, information brochures and kits produced for special events,
may be distributed both in hard-copy format and electronically. In such cases free distribution
of printed copies is done according to the list of recipients defined in the best interests of the
Organization and approved by the Secretary-General.
2. Distribution to non-Members and public users
Electronic copies in low resolution are freely available to non-Members and all web public users,
whereas high-resolution and/or printed copies are sold through the WMO bookstore.
WMO Strategic Plan
Recalling:
(1) Decision 65 (EC-69) – Preparation of the WMO Strategic Plan 2020–2023,
(2) The recommendations of the Working Group on WMO Strategic and Operational Planning,
Confirms that the final version of the draft WMO Strategic Plan has been prepared
in accordance with the above-mentioned decision of the Executive Council and the
recommendations of the Working Group;
Recommends to the Eighteenth World Meteorological Congress draft Resolution XX (Cg‑18) –

WMO Strategic Plan, as laid out in the annex to the present recommendation.
WMO Strategic Plan
THE CONGRESS,
Noting:
(1) Resolution 69 (Cg-17) – WMO Strategic Plan (2016–2019),
(2) Resolution 71 (Cg-17) – Preparation of the Strategic and Operating Plans 2020–2023,
(3) Decision 65 (EC-69) – Preparation of the WMO Strategic Plan 2020–2023,
(4) Recommendation 20 (EC-70) – WMO Strategic Plan,
Noting further that the WMO strategic planning process for the period 2020–2023 and beyond
is based on and comprises three interlinked key components, namely:
(1) The WMO Strategic Plan, which provides a high-level vision and overarching priorities of
the future direction of WMO, articulated in long-term goals and strategic objectives with
focused implementation areas for the financial period 2020–2023 and related monitoring
indicators,
(2) The WMO Operating Plan, which presents outcomes in the form of benefits to Members,
outputs, activities and related performance indicators to address the global societal needs
and achieve the strategic objectives,
(3) The WMO Results-based Budget, which identifies resources for implementing the Strategic
Plan, including functioning of constituent bodies, the Secretariat and activities,
Approves, under the provision of Article 8 (a), (b) and (c) of the Convention of the World
Meteorological Organization, the WMO Strategic Plan, as contained in the annex to the present
resolution;
Urges Members to take the WMO Strategic Plan into account in developing and carrying
out their national development, disaster risk reduction, climate services and other relevant
strategies on programmes in meteorology, hydrology and related disciplines, as well as in their
participation in the programme activities of the Organization;
Requests the Executive Council, the regional associations, the technical commissions and the
Secretary-General to adhere to the vision, overarching priorities, long-term goals and strategic
objectives set forth in the Strategic Plan and to organize programme activities so as to achieve
the expected outcomes;
Requests the Executive Council to use the Strategic Plan, complemented by the WMO
Operating Plan, as a benchmark to monitor progress and performance in achieving the expected
outcomes by implementing programmes and activities of the Organization and to submit a
report to the Nineteenth World Meteorological Congress;
Requests the Secretary-General to arrange for the publication of the Strategic Plan, for its
distribution to all Members and constituent bodies of WMO, to United Nations system and other
partner organizations, as appropriate.
Note: This resolution replaces Resolution 69 (Cg-17), which is no longer in force.

WMO Strategic Plan
World Meteorological Organization
STRATEGIC PLAN
Draft
Foreword (will be added at the stage of publishing)

Executive summary (will be a separate publication for external communication)
APPENDIX 4. RECOMMENDATONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION 291
Our Vision
By 2030, we see a world where all nations, especially the most vulnerable, are more resilient
to the socioeconomic consequences of extreme weather, climate, water and other
environmental events;1 and underpin their sustainable development through the best possible
services, whether over land, at sea or in the air.
Our Mission
Our Mission is outlined under Article 2 of WMO Convention as to facilitate worldwide
cooperation on monitoring and predicting changes in weather, climate, water and other
environmental conditions through the exchange of information and services, standardization,
application, research and training.
(Box)
WMO is a specialized agency and an authoritative voice of the United Nations
WMO Member States and Territories own and operate the scientific infrastructure required for
providing the weather, climate, water and related environmental services, and primarily
delivered through their national meteorological and hydrological organizations.
WMO enables the performance of its Member States and Territories in the provision of their
monitoring, forecasting and warning services, leads and informs the global agenda where it best
serves their interest through provision of credible information, reports and assessment at global,
regional scales, channels their scientific expertise to address emerging issues such as climate
change, and fosters effective and strategic partnerships.
For more than a century, WMO has been providing the essential worldwide leadership and
coordination in support of nations’ responsibilities to provide weather, climate, water and
related environmental services that protect lives, property and livelihoods. The cross-border
nature of the weather, water and climate phenomena requires close coordination among all
WMO Members States and Territories in building highly standardized systems for their
monitoring, analysis and prediction. WMO, through its various bodies and programmes, has
established and facilitated an unprecedented global scientific and operational cooperation,
encompassing Members’ National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs), academic
and research institutions, business partners, communities and individuals.
The role of WMO will remain to support the activities of its Member States in understanding the
past, monitoring the present and predicting the future state and interactions of the
atmosphere, the hydrosphere and other vital elements of our planet, enabling adequate and
effective preparedness, adaptation and response to related natural extremes. This will require
further enhancement of coordinated and interoperable networks and systems for data
collection and processing, improvement of predictive skill through advanced science and
computational technologies, and finally highly innovative approaches of service delivery that
will ensure that accurate, fit-for-purpose information will reach its users on time for making
their weather-, water- and climate-informed decisions.
1
In the context of this Strategic Plan, the term “weather” refers to short-term variations in the state
of the atmosphere and their phenomena or effects, including wind, cloud, rain, snow, fog, cold spells,
heat waves, drought, sand and dust storms and atmospheric composition, as well as tropical and
extratropical cyclones, storms, gales, the state of the sea (e.g. wind-generated waves), sea ice,
coastal storm surges etc. “Climate” refers to longer-term aspects of the atmosphere-ocean-land
surface systems. “Water” includes freshwater above and below the land surfaces of the Earth, their
occurrence, circulation and distribution, both in time and space. Related “environmental” issues
refer to surrounding conditions affecting human beings and living resources, for example the quality
of air, soil and water, as well as “space weather” - the physical and phenomenological state of the
natural space environment, including the Sun and the interplanetary and planetary environments.
Our Core Values
The WMO recognizes, above all, in fulfilling its mandate, the principles of striving to ensure
that “no Member State or Territory should be left behind”, and to sustain the public trust and
confidence in the science underpinnings and the authoritative voice of the Organization and its
Members. As WMO works to translate its vision into results, the Organization will be guided by
the following values:
(1) Accountability for results and transparency. To serve as an authoritative voice

and a global leader in its field of work, WMO decisions and actions must be
characterized by adherence to the highest scientific and technical standards, integrity,
professionalism, capacity to perform and effectiveness. WMO sets clearly defined
objectives and assumes responsibility for delivering high-quality results. In so doing,
the WMO remains mindful of the need for quality management and cost-effectiveness;
(2) Collaboration and partnership. Collaboration lies at the foundation of WMO

mandate. WMO recognizes the importance of partnerships among Members,
multilateral and bilateral development partners and other relevant actors, including the
private sector, academia and other non-state players, to leverage investment, enhance
capability and performance of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services, and
deliver improved outcomes for society. WMO would expect that any such partners
uphold the highest standards of ethical behavior;
(3) Inclusiveness and diversity. WMO is committed to support all Members and narrow
the capacity gaps among them in the delivery of services by sustaining government
support, international cooperation, catalyzing investment and targeted assistance.
Based on the priorities identified by its regional bodies, WMO will ensure the
coordination and implementation of its programmes, strategies and activities and
facilitate the transfer of knowledge within and across regions to better serve the needs
of its Members. WMO will also pursue gender equality and effective participation of
women and men in governance, scientific cooperation and decision-making in
implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 5, the WMO Gender Equality Policy,
and UN criteria.
The WMO Core Values also guide the behaviour of Secretariat staff. As custodians of the
Organization’s image and reputation, they are expected to uphold a commitment to the
highest standards of ethical behaviour as expressed in the WMO Code of Ethics and the
Standards of Conduct for the International Civil Service.
Key Drivers
Global agenda creating unprecedented demand for actionable, accessible and
authoritative science-based information
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Paris Agreement on

climate change, and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction
serve as the centrepieces for national and international policymaking and
action. And as a consequence, their implementation will increasingly
demand actionable, accessible and authoritative information and services
on the changing states of the entire Earth System.2
(Box/infographics)
The meteorological and hydrological information and services provided through Member States’
institutions are essential to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty,
agriculture and food security, health, water, climate change, oceans, energy, settlements,
consumption and production, and partnerships.
As governments, organizations and international bodies align their development activities

within these frameworks, WMO and NMHSs in particular, have enormous roles to play in
supporting implementation. The concomitant decisions at all levels will continue to be
contingent upon a better understanding of the changing threat levels from natural hazards,
weather, water and climate extremes and climate change. The measurements and reports of
the WMO community in these areas currently serve as the backbone of Earth System
monitoring and prediction services. Global Earth System observations will provide a basis for
meeting the demand for increasing seamless prediction capability from weather to climate
scales based on a unified modeling approach.
As new forms of measurements emerge, and new uses for these measurements become more
sophisticated, the reliance on WMO through its Members for this authoritative information will
only increase. Furthermore, advancing the global observation and numerical modeling system
will provide a foundation for addressing the increasing requirements for impact decisions
related to a wide range of applications from public safety, to agriculture, energy, health, and
water resource management and relevance to climate change.
This means that the quality of these decisions will depend to a greater extent on the WMO
ability to properly measure and report on changes in the climate, to assess and communicate
weather, climate, water-related and air quality risks and to provide effective multi-hazard,
extended range forecasts and early warnings. Governments, organizations, and international
bodies will increasingly rely on information from WMO and NMHSs as they pursue their
sustainable development goals on land, at sea and in the air.
The provision of climate services at global, regional and national levels for economic sectors in
support of energy, water, health, and food production among others will be vital in building a
low-carbon and climate-resilient economy. The Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS)
provides a basis to support international policies and actions, National Adaptation Plans and
progress towards achieving Nationally Determined Contributions.
To address these growing demands for actionable scientific information, Members’ NMHSs will
need targeted investments, scientific and technical development and strategic partnerships.
2
In this context, the Earth is being considered as an integrated system of atmosphere, ocean,
cryosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and geosphere, which informs policies and decisions based on a
deeper understanding of the physical, chemical, biological and human interactions that determine the
past, current and future states of the Earth.
Increasing threats of extreme weather and

climate urge action for resilience, mitigation (Box/Graph)
and adaptation The World Economic Forum identified
weather extremes, natural disasters, failure
of climate change adaptation and
High-impact weather, water and climate extremes mitigation, and water crises as the highest
four global risks in 2018. According to
have devastating consequences for the safety of
Munich Re, the costs of natural
people, national economies, urban and rural catastrophes in 2017 spiralled upwards to
environments, and food and water security. Extreme US$ 330 billion, less than half of which are
hydrometeorological3 events currently account for insured, including the costliest hurricane
season on record (US$ 215 billion) and a
more than 80% of the world’s natural disasters.
major humanitarian disaster in South Asia
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on due to floods.
Climate Change, these extremes are expected to
occur with greater frequency and intensity as
greenhouse gas concentrations continue to rise. Sea levels rise, also linked to climate change,
will further increase the threat to more than half of the world’s population who are living in
coastal regions.
Society’s exposure and vulnerabilities to these hazards will be further exacerbated due to:
population growth, reaching more than 9 billion by 2050; the development of human
settlements, further urbanization and growth of mega cities worldwide, particularly in flood
plains and coastal zones; significant expansion of built environments and critical
infrastructures to service human needs; and the relocation of vulnerable populations. To affect
smart mitigation and adaptation policy development and decision-making by governments at
all levels, international institutions, economic decision-makers and citizens, demand for
increasingly useful, accessible, and authoritative meteorological and hydrological information
and services is growing.
To support national agendas for disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, WMO fosters
the production and delivery of accessible and authoritative meteorological and hydrological
information and services. This information is critical to strengthening resilience to the impacts
of high impact weather, climate and water extremes. It provides an essential underpinning to
support the development and implementation of National Adaptation Plans under the Paris
Agreement and UN system needs on humanitarian and crisis management.
Growing capacity gap threatens global infrastructure and services

All WMO Member States collectively contribute to the global meteorological and hydrological
infrastructure and facilities. While this collective global system is a public good that benefits
all, the contribution and service performance among the Members continues to be uneven.
Many NMHSs are facing substantial development needs and capability gaps in providing the
weather, climate, water and related environmental information and services to meet national,
regional and global requirements. The typical challenges center around maintaining sustainable
infrastructure, human resources, and the ability to benefit from the advances in science and
technology.
Such deficiencies are often present in those countries that are particularly vulnerable to natural
disasters. These could jeopardize effective protection of life and property and slow down
socioeconomic recovery. Moreover, globalization and the interdependence of critical
infrastructure may further contribute to widening capacity gaps among NMHSs and related
agencies. Narrowing the capacity gaps by sustaining government support, international
cooperation, catalyzing investment and targeted assistance is more important than ever in
view of the increasing frequency and intensity of weather-, climate- and water-related
extremes.
3
Hydrometeorological hazards are of atmospheric, hydrological or oceanographic origin.
Rapid advancements in science and technology and changing landscape of data and
service delivery urge for innovative partnerships
Rapid progress in science and technology provides the opportunity to greatly improve services
and to make them more accessible. Advanced weather, climate and hydrological services
contribute to timely and effective planning and decision-making, resulting in greater
socioeconomic benefits. The contribution of science and technology is further enhanced by
accelerating the research-to-operations cycle in all fields.
This poses challenges to WMO since the 21st century systems for monitoring, prediction and
service delivery are of the highest complexity handling increasingly large datasets and
sophisticated numerical models. Therefore, WMO plays a major role in the transfer of modern
knowledge and technology from developed to developing countries to enable them to benefit
from the new information era.
The increasing demand for more and more diverse services from increasingly sophisticated and
capable users changes rapidly the service delivery and business models in many parts of the
world. Trends like “big data”, “crowd sourcing” and “open system”, the appearance of
commercial observing networks, data and service providers, the affordability of digital
technology, the introduction of artificial intelligence and cognitive computing to rapidly extract
useful information from “big data”, all are game changers. The private sector, as well as
academia and other players, contribute by accelerating the uptake of technological
innovations, and assisting Member States in offering more efficient, attractive and accessible
services in support of their sustainable development goals. There are many opportunities for
optimization and efficiency through integration of networks, computing power and service
delivery through use of social media.
Member States must support their NMHSs to better and readily adapt to this dynamic changing
environment, while WMO must elaborate the means to strengthen cooperation, mutual
reinforcement and complementarity among state and non-state actors. It is important to
advocate for the essential role of NMHSs in providing the critical infrastructure, competence
and authoritative services for serving their governments’ fundamental public good function for
protecting life and property.
Overarching Priorities
The Strategic Plan sets out long-term goals for 2030 horizon and strategic objectives, focused
on addressing the most pressing developments and needs during the 2020-2023 planning
cycle of the Organization. The Plan articulates expected outcomes expressing clear benefits to
Members. As we translate these goals and objectives into detailed plans we will focus our
resources in accordance with three overarching priorities:
(1) Enhancing preparedness and reducing losses of life and property from
hydrometeorological extremes;
(2) Supporting climate-smart decision making to build resilience and adaptation to climate
risk;
(3) Enhancing socioeconomic value of weather, climate, hydrological and related
environmental services.
Reflecting on these key priorities, there will be a need to involve a broad set of stakeholders
and multidisciplinary expertise to address the current and future challenges facing society as a
consequence of changing weather, climate and water patterns worldwide. To be effective,
WMO fosters collaborative mechanisms to better align interests, build community and engage
stakeholders and experts under weather, climate and water.
Long-term Goals and Strategic Objectives

Goal 1 Better serve societal needs: delivering, authoritative,
accessible, user-oriented and fit-for-purpose information and
services
Long-term outcome: Enhanced capability of

Member States to develop, access and utilize (Box/illustration)
WMO authoritative flagship products
accurate, reliable and fit-for-purpose weather,
climate, water and related environmental impact- WMO Statement on the State of the Global
based services to best support the policy-making Climate
and actions that implement sustainable Greenhouse Gas Bulletin
WMO Antarctic Ozone Bulletin
development and mitigate weather, climate and El-Niño – La-Niña Update ...
water-related risks.
Objective 1.1 Strengthen national multi-hazard early warning/alert systems and

extend reach to better enable effective response to the associated risks
Warnings on weather, climate, water and other environmental extreme events are essential
for the safety of lives and livelihoods, recognized under UN Global Agenda and foundational
to all governments’ NMHSs’ mandates. In many countries capacities to deliver warnings are
lacking and will be addressed, particularly through focused action in the most vulnerable
least developed countries.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Enhance impact- and risk-based extended forecast and warning products and services
to enable better preparedness and response to hydrological and meteorological events.
 Strengthen national capacity in multi-hazard early warnings.
 Enhance access to official national meteorological and hydrological forecasts and
warnings globally in support of regional and global requirements.
Objective 1.2 Broaden the provision of policy- and decision-supporting climate

The Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) provides a unique platform for guiding
and supporting activities across the value chain for climate services, which contribute to
adaptation, mitigation and reduction of loss and damage. Availability and access to these
products will be expanded and broadened to benefit all Members.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Advance a climate service information system enabling all Members to access, and add
value to, the best available global and regional climate information products and
methodologies through improved processing, exchange and enhancement of
information on past, present and future climate.
 Support Members’ production and delivery of authoritative national climate information
products and services in GFCS priority areas to adapt and respond to climate variability
and change, including through participation in National Adaptation Plans, and to avert
loss or damage as well as to optimize benefits from climate-related opportunities.
 Refine WMO products containing key climate indicators, seasonal outlooks, and
improved characterization of extremes and associated impact information recognized as
key inputs for international climate-related policy implementation and UN system
action.
Objective 1.3 Further develop services in support of sustainable water management
To mitigate related risks and subsequent losses, improved access to reliable global and
regional information on the current status and future conditions of water resources is
critical, but stakeholders do not have a central source for this information. WMO will
establish a system to enable easy access to essential water resources information to
support informed decisions based on current and expected hydrological conditions.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Enable better access to improved hydrological services, forecasts and warnings for
water resources, drought and flood risk management and planning.
 Facilitate exchange of transboundary data and products through the Global Hydrological
Status and Outlook System to enhance understanding of current and future water
resources.
 Regular reporting on the state of global water resources.
Objective 1.4 Enhance the value and innovate the provision of decision-supporting
weather information and services
Weather-informed decision-making for all modes of transport (aviation, marine, land),

energy, agriculture, health, tourism, urban and other sectors will be raised to new levels,
resulting in substantial productivity gains and positive environmental impacts. Service
delivery approaches will be innovated to build Members’ capacity to provide modern, fit for
purpose and high quality services.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Enhance and increase weather services by uptake of modern technology in service
delivery and quality management principles.
 Design and implement new weather and water prediction services for the specific needs
of megacities and other urban areas.
 Provide NMHSs with further guidance and assistance in the assessment and
enhancement of socioeconomic benefits of their services.
 Establish principles and guidance for successful public-private engagement, and
facilitate a continuous dialogue between players and stakeholders based on
collaboration and mutual reinforcement.
 Develop and adopt international standards, quality control mechanisms and
recommended practices in a holistic manner for all service areas based on best national
practices.
Goal 2 Enhance Earth system observations and predictions:
Strengthening the technical (Box/illustrations)

foundation for the future WMO core global public good systems
WIGOS and its component networks

Long-term outcome: An integrated Earth system WIS schematics
observational network increasingly automated and GDPFS global and specialized centres
optimized to ensure effective global coverage. High
quality fit-for-purpose measurements feeding a continuous global data exchange underpinned
by data management and data processing mechanisms.
Objective 2.1 Optimize the acquisition of Earth system observation data through the
WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS)
All in-situ and space-based observing programmes of WMO are being consolidated in a
single integrated system, the WIGOS, which will be operational in 2020. Worldwide
implementation of WMO standards, principles and tools will enable Members to optimize
their observing networks. It will allow Members to leverage observing systems operated by
all relevant government agencies, research entities, non-profit organizations and private
companies, including also non-traditional data acquisition vehicles such as crowd-sourcing
and the Internet of Things.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Advance the implementation of WIGOS rapidly through coordinated global and regional
plans, in particular further development and operational implementation of Global Basic
Observing Network (GBON), electronic metadata inventories for all observing platforms,
along with quantitative tools to monitor their data delivery and data quality.
 Increase compliance with regulations and standards, and identify critical gaps in
observational data coverage and address that through the integrated design of
observing networks.
 Develop additional regulatory and guidance material developed to facilitate integration
of externally-sourced observations under the WIGOS umbrella.
Objective 2.2 Improve and increase access to, exchange and management of
current and past Earth system observation data and derived products through the
WMO Information System
The useful shelf life for observations accessed through the WIS is unlimited. Atmospheric
composition, climate, hydrological and oceanographic observations from all times will need
to be continuously available and accessible for research, climate monitoring, re-analysis
and other applications. Therefore, WMO will streamline and coordinate all WMO data
management systems.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Foster the continuous growth and evolution of WIS to accommodate and exploit the
different technical capabilities of the Members and provide continued access to all
observations acquired under WIGOS and all data generated under the Global Data
Processing and Forecasting System for all Members.
 Further develop regulatory and guidance material governing international exchange of
data, along with strengthened monitoring of compliance.
 Consolidate and further develop WMO data management systems and practices through
WIS to help ensure that all observational data and key products are properly archived.
Objective 2.3 Enable access and use of numerical analysis and Earth system
prediction products at all temporal and spatial scales from the WMO seamless Global
Data Processing and Forecasting System
Major weather patterns are routinely predicted more than a week ahead, tropical cyclone
landfalls are predicted accurately several days ahead, and even small-scale severe weather
with high local impact is often forecasted with enough lead-time to mitigate its impact.
WMO will further promote the development of Earth system Prediction, facilitate the use of
cascading seamless system of numerical models4 operated by centres around the world and
coordinated through WMO to enhance national forecasting capabilities of all Members.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Advance the GDPFS to accommodate increased emphasis on probabilistic forecasting
and coupled Earth system modelling to improve predictions over time scales ranging
from long-term climate variability to seasonal/sub-seasonal to short-term weather
events.
 Further develop regulatory and guidance material governing the functioning of the
GDPFS.
 Enhance the GDPFS to enable all Members to develop and/or improve their own
national predictive capabilities benefiting from advances in quantitative model- and
impact-based forecasting products.
Goal 3 Advance targeted research: Leveraging leadership in science

to improve understanding of the Earth system for enhanced
services
Long-term outcome: Leveraged global research community resulting in fundamental

advances in the understanding of the Earth system, leading to improved policy-relevant advice
and predictive skill at all time scales in a seamless context. This will result in the strengthened
forecast and warning performance of all Members as research and operations coalesce to apply
the best science to all components of the service value chain.
Objective 3.1 Advance scientific knowledge of the Earth system
WMO is uniquely placed to step up to the challenges and opportunities associated with
fundamental Earth system science questions and will lead a global research effort that
draws on the best expertise within NMHSs, academia and research institutes.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Address overarching challenges in Earth system scientific research, modelling, analysis
and observations, on topics such as atmospheric composition, the ocean/atmosphere/
land coupling, cryosphere, clouds and circulation, water availability and flooding,
regional sea level and coastal impacts, high-impact weather, and climate variability and
change.
 Prioritize research implementation plans and mobilize broad scientific community to
help leverage global research potential to generate enhanced knowledge and
understanding of the Earth system and related weather, water and climate linkages.
 Support advancement of WMO-coordinated priority scientific assessments and services.
4
“In the context of WMO, seamless prediction considers not only all compartments of the Earth system,
but also all disciplines of the weather–climate–water–environment value chain (monitoring and
observation, models, forecasting, dissemination and communication, perception and interpretation,
decision-making, end-user products) to deliver tailor-made weather, climate, water and environmental
information covering minutes to centuries and local to global scales” (WMO/WWRP, Catalysing
Innovation in Weather Science: WWRP Implementation Plan 2016-2023, 2016).
Objective 3.2 Enhance the science-for-service value chain ensuring scientific and
technological advances improve predictive capabilities
WMO demonstrates the value of translating science into enhanced operational service
delivery with societal benefits. Considering the exponential growth in the expectations of
users and stakeholders in improved predictive capabilities and socioeconomic relevance,
WMO will work to ensure an effective science-for-service transition by accelerated research
to operations applications.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Improve predictive capabilities in high-impact weather forecasting, seasonal to sub-
seasonal to decadal prediction, polar prediction, urban and environment prediction and
water cycle prediction.
 Enhance relevance and utility of products and services through broader engagement of
social science expertise and closer collaboration between physical and social scientific
groups.
Objective 3.3 Advance policy-relevant science
In the next decade science is expected to provide tools and solutions for suitable use in the
implementation of national and international policies and actions. WMO key research
initiatives, working closely with its partners, will advance scientific assessments and climate
projections, authoritative global reports on greenhouse gases and other atmospheric
constituencies, and new technologies to better quantify the carbon, energy and water
cycles.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Implement an integrated global greenhouse gas information system to enable Members
to improve the quality and confidence in national greenhouse gas emission inventories.
 Enhance the body of scientific knowledge assessed by IPCC and other global scientific
reports.
 Improve the basis of understanding for water resource management decisions drawing
upon improved capabilities, especially in sub-seasonal to seasonal range.
Goal 4 Close the capacity gap on weather, climate, hydrological and

related environmental services: Enhancing service delivery
capacity of developing countries to ensure availability of
essential information and services needed by governments,
economic sectors and citizens
Long-term outcome: Improved access to regional and global monitoring and prediction
systems and utilization of weather, climate and water information and services bringing
tangible benefits to developing Members, in particular least developed countries, small-island
developing states and Member island territories. This will be achieved through strategic
investments, technology transfer, knowledge and experience sharing, and by taking due
account of social inclusion and gender factors.
Objective 4.1 Address the needs of developing countries to enable them to provide and
utilize essential weather, climate, hydrological and related environmental services
The increasing vulnerability of many societies and economies to natural hazards and
extreme weather events and the gaps in the capabilities of NMHSs to deliver adequate
services – particularly those of developing countries, least developed countries and small
island developing States and Member island territories – require WMO to strengthen its
capacity development efforts, building upon existing capacities in NMHSs, taking advantage
of the capacity of developed country NMHSs in twinning and other arrangements, and
leveraging the investments of the UN system and other development partners towards this
goal.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Improve understanding of the specific capacity needs of each developing country with
respect to technical, institutional and human resources, to enable them to provide
adequate weather, climate, hydrological and related environmental services, in
particular for protection of life, property and economic productivity.
 Mobilize strategic resources involving development partners and national governments
and assisting NMHSs to develop long-term strategies and operational plans to address
the identified capacity needs.
 Increase visibility and sustainability of NMHSs in LDCs and SIDS by demonstrating,
promoting and communicating the societal-economic value of their weather, climate,
water and related environmental observations, research and services.
Objective 4.2 Develop and sustain core competencies and expertise
There is a growing deficit in the capability and numbers of adequately educated and trained
staff needed to provide weather, climate, hydrological and related environmental services
in many countries and territories. Additionally, rapid advances in scientific innovation and
technological developments require corresponding and continuous training of NMHS
personnel. WMO will increase its training and long-term education activities to help
Members to obtain and maintain needed competencies.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Support Members to acquire the qualification and competencies required for effective
service delivery through appropriate education and training programmes focused on
WMO standards and recommendations.
 Support cooperation between developing and developed Members and full utilization of
the WMO Regional Training Centres.
Objective 4.3 Scale-up effective partnerships for investment in sustainable and

cost-efficient infrastructure and service delivery
Enhance the full spectrum of the weather, climate and hydrological services delivery to
support the protection of life, property and the environment and the security of food
production, energy and water resources. Scale up partnership investments to minimize cost
and maximize the opportunity for the networks to be sustainable long beyond the lifetime
of donor funded projects.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Strengthen partnerships and alliances among all Members to share knowledge,
technology and expertise with particular emphasis on the use of twinning
arrangements.
 Enter into strategic, functional and mutually beneficial development partnerships and
alliances with the key relevant UN, intergovernmental and nongovernmental
organizations, the private sector, and academia.
 Provide leadership in promoting the principles on which global meteorology is built,
emphasizing authoritative voice, common standards, data and product sharing.
Goal 5 Strategic realignment of WMO structure and programmes for

effective policy- and decision-making and implementation
Long-term outcome: Improved relevance, effectiveness and efficiency of the constituent

bodies and implementation of this Strategic Plan through closer alignment of structures and
processes with the strategic goals of the Organization.
Objective 5.1 Optimize WMO constituent body structure for more effective decision-
making
Ensure the effective and efficient use of resources, including those of Members, through a
more strategic focus of the WMO action, and constituent body constructs, structures and
processes adapted to implement the Strategic Plan.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Implement the decisions of Congress on optimized constructs, processes and duties of
WMO constituent bodies and organs to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the
Organization and good governance.
Objective 5.2 Streamline WMO programmes
WMO scientific and technical programmes need to be periodically reviewed by the Congress
to ensure their relevance to the Strategic Plan of the Organization as well as their
effectiveness and efficiency of delivery. This will be done based on the principles of quality
management, cost-effectiveness, and optimal support by contributing experts and the
Secretariat.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Streamline WMO scientific, technical and service programmes to enable the
Organization to better achieve the goals and objectives set in the Strategic Plan,
ensuring coherence and consistency between the strategic, programmatic and financial
frameworks.
Objective 5.3 Advance equal, effective and inclusive participation in governance,

scientific cooperation and decision-making
Organizations that respect diversity and value gender equality demonstrate better
governance, improved performance and higher levels of creativity. Gender equality and the
empowerment of women are further key to scientific excellence and essential to meeting
the challenges of climate change, disaster risk reduction and sustainable development,
particularly Sustainable Development Goal 5.
Focus in 2020-2023:
 Advance gender equality across the Organization, especially in governance and
decision-making, in implementation of SDG5 and the WMO Gender Equality Policy.
 Provide equitable access to, interpretation of and use of information and services to
both women and men.
 Attract more women and girls to science and employment in NMHS through showcasing
role models and investing in human capital.
Implementation of the Strategic Plan
This Strategic Plan will guide the decisions and activities of WMO in helping to realize its 2030
vision, and will serve as the focus for the upcoming financial period 2020–2023, bringing the
greatest benefits to Members.
The Strategic Plan takes into account strategic, operational, financial, compliance and
reputational risks for the Organization and its Members as outlined in key drivers.
The integrated WMO Operating Plan 2020-2023 presents time-bound programme activities and
projects, result-oriented budgets and success indicators (see Annex for a series of illustrative
indicators). The Operating Plan forms the basis for resource allocation, and defines the risks
and performance matrices against which to assess progress to achieve expected outcomes
through the WMO Monitoring and Evaluation System.
_____________
Annex
Monitoring indicators
Strategic objective Monitoring indictors
1.1 Strengthen national multi-hazard 1.1.1 Number of Members participating in a global alert system
early warning/alert systems to extend
reach and better enable effective 1.1.2 Number of Members with a MHEWS integrated in a national
decision response to the associated DRR management system
risks
(TBD) Number of countries cataloguing high impact weather,
weather and climate events using WMO standard unique identifiers
1.2 Broaden the provision of policy- 1.2.1 Number of Members with basic system for climate services
and decision-supporting climate
information and services at all levels 1.2.2 Number of Members with enhanced CSIS capacity
1.2.3 Number of Members offering tailored products within GFCS

priority areas
1.2.4 Number of Members making use of RCCs and/or RCOFs
1.2.5 User/stakeholder assessment of the relevance, usefulness

and timeliness of WMO flagship products (e.g. Statement of the
Global Climate, El Niño Outlook, etc.)
1.3 Further develop services in 1.3.1 Number of Members participating in WMO status and outlook
support of sustainable water system
management
1.3.2 Number of Members with operational flood forecasting
1.3.3 Number of Members with operational drought warning

system
1.4 Enhance the value and innovate 1.4.1 Number of Members with QMS for selected services
the provision of decision-supporting (aviation, marine, EWS)
weather information and services
1.4.2 Number of Members with socioeconomic benefit analysis
conducted in the past X years
1.4.3 Number of Members with signed agreements between

NMHSs and private sector/academia actors on (a) service delivery
and (b) maintenance of networks
1.4.4 Number of Members using (a) web applications and (b) social
media in service delivery
2.1 Optimize the acquisition of Earth 2.1.1 Percentage of the Earth system covered by observations
system observation data through the (especially hydrosphere, cryosphere, developing and LDCs, SIDs)
WMO Integrated Global Observing
System (WIGOS) 2.1.2 Number of Members complying with WMO observation
standards
2.1.3 Number of Members implementing national observing system

WIGOS
2.2 Improve and increase access to, 2.2.1 Number of Members with national network monitoring and
exchange and management of current data management systems established
and past Earth system observation
data and derived products through the 2.2.2 Number of Members implementing data exchange policies, as
WMO Information System per Resolutions 40, 25 and 60
2.3 Enable access and use of 2.3.1 Number of Members (a) accessing and (b) using quantitative
numerical analysis and Earth system numerical model fields in support of national product generation
prediction products at all temporal and and service delivery
spatial scales from the WMO seamless
Global Data Processing and 2.3.2 Number of Members providing verification data to the
Forecasting System producing centres
3.1 Advance scientific knowledge of 3.1.1 Assessed value of WMO-led research to Members and the
the Earth system global UN agenda (measured in terms of excellence, relevance and
impact)
Strategic objective Monitoring indictors

3.2 Enhance the science-for-service 3.2.1 Number of downloads of Sub-seasonal to Seasonal Prediction
value chain ensuring scientific and (S2S) database in Terabytes
technological advances improve
predictive capabilities
3.3 Advance policy-relevant science 3.3.1 Number of Members with national greenhouse gas
monitoring systems supporting climate action
3.3.2 Number of Members with capability for decadal predictions
4.1 Address the needs of developing 4.1.1 Number of NMHSs with strategic plans and legal basis for
countries to enable them to provide their operation
and utilize essential weather, climate,
hydrological and related 4.1.2 Number of NMHSs with documented inputs to (a) NAPs and
environmental services (b) NDCs
4.1.3 Number of NMHSs with enhanced capacity to provide a range

of services (based on CPDB self-assessment)
4.2 Develop and sustain core 4.2.1 Number of NMHS staff trained at WMO training centres
competencies and expertise and/or fellowships
4.2.2 Number of NMHSs whose staff have adequate (to be defined)

level of core competencies to meet national mandate
4.3 Scale up effective partnerships for 4.3.1 Number of NMHSs receiving international capacity
investment in sustainable and cost- development assistance through WMO technical advisory role
efficient infrastructure and service and/or partnerships
delivery
4.3.2 Number of Members benefiting from WMO-catalyzed
development projects
4.3.3 Volume of development projects catalyzed through WMO

(in CHF)
4.3.4 Number of Members with legal basis for public-private

partnerships
5.1 Optimize WMO constituent body 5.1.1 Members perceptions based on Stakeholder Survey (e.g. on
structure for more effective decision- structure, effectiveness and mode of operation of WMO Constituent
making Bodies) – see Section 3 of 2016 Survey
5.2 Align WMO programmes 5.2.1 Members perceptions based on Stakeholder Survey
(e.g. value of WMO programmes to operational services provided
by Members) – see Section 4 of 2016 Survey
5.3 Advance equal, effective and 5.3.1 Proportion of female and male delegates to WMO constituent
inclusive participation in governance, body meetings
scientific cooperation and decision-
making 5.3.2 Proportion of male and female members of constituent body
working structures (working groups, expert teams)
Maximum expenditure for the eighteenth financial period (2020–2023)
Recalling:
(1) Article 23 of the Convention of the World Meteorological Organization,
(2) Articles 3 and 4 of the Financial Regulations of the Organization,
(3) Recommendation 20 (EC-70) – WMO Strategic Plan,
Having considered the Secretary-General’s proposal for the budget for the eighteenth
financial period (2020–2023) (see EC-70/INF. 16.2 (2)), including a zero nominal growth scenario
and additional resources, based on the draft Strategic Plan and the draft Operating Plan for
2020–2023 (see EC-70/INF. 16.2 (3)),
Having further considered the relevant recommendations of the thirty-seventh meeting of

the Financial Advisory Committee (see EC-70/INF. 16.1 (1)), and those of the first 2018 session
of the Working Group on Strategic and Operational Planning (see EC-70/INF. 16),
Noting that the Secretary-General’s proposal is compliant with Decision 66 (EC-69) – Outline of
the Operating Plan and budget 2020–2023,
Noting further:
(1) That financial requirements in the eighteenth financial period shall be funded from both
assessed, at least at zero nominal growth, and voluntary contributions,
(2) The Secretary-General’s proposal for a financing modality of voluntary contributions

from Members whereby they firmly commit themselves at Congress to funding additional
initiatives and other WMO activities,
(3) That the governance reform and transition process have been taken into account in the
budget proposal,
Invites WMO Members to fund additional initiatives and other WMO activities through the new
financing modality;
Requests the Secretary-General to ensure that the Operating Plan:
(1) Indicates sources of funding (assessed and voluntary contributions with/without indication
of commitments) for activities foreseen in the plan;
(2) Provides clarity on the intended use of resources and added value to Members of both the
zero nominal growth proposal and the additional initiatives;
Further requests the Secretary-General to monitor the implementation of the Operating Plan
at both the outcome and output levels, in accordance with the WMO monitoring and evaluation
system, in particular in relation to the use of budgetary resources;
Recommends to Congress draft Resolution XX (Cg-18) – Maximum expenditure for

the eighteenth financial period (2020–2023), as provided in the annex to the present
recommendation.
Maximum expenditure for the eighteenth financial period (2020–2023)
Noting:
(1) Article 23 of the Convention of the World Meteorological Organization,
(2) Article 4 of the Financial Regulations of the Organization,
Considering the long-term goals and strategic objectives set in the WMO Strategic Plan
(Resolution XX (Cg-18)),
Authorizes the Executive Council during the eighteenth financial period from 1 January 2020 to
31 December 2023:
(1) To incur maximum expenditures of 266,220,000 Swiss francs (… to be decided by

Congress) to be funded through assessed contributions;
(2) To distribute the regular budget resources by appropriation part as provided in the Annex 1
to this resolution; and
(3) To approve the biennial appropriations for 2020–2021 and for 2022–2023 within these
limits;
Takes note of the commitments made by Members for the funding of the additional initiatives
aimed at accelerated, expanded and/or scaled up implementation of strategic objectives as
indicated in Annex 2;
Further authorizes the Executive Council to incur other expenditure from voluntary resources
contributing to enhanced implementation of programme activities in line with the Strategic Plan,
including co-sponsored programmes and initiatives.
Maximum expenditure for 2020–2023 by appropriation part

(in Swiss francs)
Budget
Appropriation Parts
2020–2023
1. Part I. Long-Term Goal 1 58,285,300
2. Part II. Long-Term Goal 2 47,925,000
3. Part III. Long-Term Goal 3 26,138,500
4. Part IV. Long-Term Goal 4 52,891,600
5. Part V. Long-Term Goal 5 2,982,900

Budget
Appropriation Parts
2020–2023
6. Part VI. Policy-Making Organs, Executive 39,150,400

Management and Oversight
7. Part VII. Language Services 38,846,400
Total maximum expenditure: 266,220,100

(to be decided by Congress)
(Minor adjustments could be introduced by the Secretary-General in the final budget proposal).
Voluntary contributions with commitment for the financing of

additional initiatives for 2020–2023
(in Swiss francs)
Strategic Contributors: Total by

Additional initiative by Long-Term Goal
Objective WMO Members Contributor
LTG.1
Early warning services for international
SO 1.1
organizations
SO 1.2 Climate Regional Forums
SO 1.3 Water Regional Forums
SO 1.3 Hydrological Status and Outlook System
Urban services: air quality, disasters, climate
SO 1.4
adaptation
LTG.2
WMO Hydrological Observing System member

SO 2.1
support capacity building
SO 2.2 Leveraging the data revolution (WIGOS and WIS)
LTG.3
SO 3.3 Integrated Global Greenhouse Gas Information

System (IG3IS)
LTG.4
SO 4.1 Country Profile Database operations

Regional MHEWS advisory systems for Africa,
SO 4.1
South America, Central Asia (GMAS)
Regionalizing WMO/Strengthening National
SO 4.2 Institutional Systems in NMHS for Weather Water
Climate Services
SO 4.2 Support and coordination of SIDS and MITs
Strategic Contributors: Total by

Additional initiative by Long-Term Goal
Objective WMO Members Contributor
SO 4.3 Private sector engagement coordination
(The list could be refined by the Secretary-General following consultations with Members).
Officers of the Organization
Having considered the process of election to the positions of Vice-President of the

Organization as they become vacant in between sessions of Congress,
Recommends to Congress draft Resolution XX (Cg-18) – Designation of acting Vice-Presidents

in between sessions of Congress.
Acting Vice-Presidents in between sessions of Congress
THE CONGRESS,
Having examined Recommendation 22 (EC-70) – Officers of the Organization,
Convinced of the need to ensure continuity in the offices of the Vice-Presidents;
Decides that in case the position of the Third Vice-President becomes vacant in between
sessions of the Congress, the Executive Council shall designate an Acting Third Vice-President
from amongst elected members of the Executive Council in accordance with the provisions of
Article 13 of the Convention of WMO. The Acting Third Vice-President shall serve for a period
not exceeding the remainder of the term of office of the Vice-President whom he replaces. The
General Regulation 15 shall therefore be amended as follows:
If the position of the Third Vice-President of the Organization becomes vacant in between
sessions of Congress, the Executive Council shall designate an Acting Third Vice-President from
amongst elected members of Executive Council in accordance with the provisions of Article
13 of the Convention of the WMO. The Acting Third Vice-President shall serve for a period not
exceeding the remainder of the term of office of the officer whom he/she replaces;
Decides further to clarify General Regulation 13 and 14 to indicate that in case of the Second
or Third Vice-Presidents serve as Acting First or Second Vice-President respectively, he/she
shall also continue serving in their original office. The General Regulations 13 and 14 shall
therefore be amended as follows:
Regulation 13
If the First Vice-President of the Organization resigns or is not able or eligible to carry out
the functions of his office, for any cause, the Second Vice-President of the Organization shall
also serve as Acting First Vice-President of the Organization for a period not exceeding the
remainder of the term of office of the First Vice-President whom he/she replaces;
Regulation 14
If the Second Vice-President of the Organization resigns or is not able or eligible to carry out
the functions of his office, for any cause, the Third Vice-President of the Organization shall
also serve as Acting Second Vice-President of the Organization for a period not exceeding the
remainder of the term of office of the Second Vice-President whom he/she replaces;
Decides also to amend Regulation 16 (c) to reflect the election process that was previously
detailed in Regulation 15 as follows:
Regulation 16 (c)
The elected president of the association or the commission shall arrange for election of the
vice-president of that body if the vacancy is notified to the Secretary-General at least 130 days
before the next ordinary session of the body concerned. This vice-president shall be elected to
serve for a period not exceeding the term of office of the officer whom he replaces.
WMO Executive Council
Having adopted Resolution 35 (EC-70) – WMO Executive Council structures,
Recommends to Congress draft Resolution XX (Cg-18) – WMO Executive Council, annexed to

the present recommendation.
WMO Executive Council
THE CONGRESS,
Recalling:
(1) That the Seventeenth Congress requested the Executive Council to provide
recommendations to the Eighteenth Congress on constituent body constructs,
(2) Decision 84 (EC-68) – Governance review and Decision 68 (EC-69) – WMO constituent
body reform,
Expressing appreciation for the work carried out by the Executive Council concerning the
construct of governance review of the Organization,
Having examined Recommendation 23 (EC-70) — WMO Executive Council,
Reaffirms the fundamental role of the Executive Council as established by the Convention and
in particular its primary functions as defined by Article 14;
Endorses Resolution 35 (EC-70) — WMO Executive Council structures, by which the Executive
Council has resolved to streamline the bodies reporting to it around two core bodies as well
as the Science Advisory Panel addressing respectively policy, strategic, technical and scientific
aspects in addition to the Audit Committee, Financial Advisory Committee and the Staff Pension
Committee.
Review of the WMO regional associations
Recalling:
(1) That the Seventeenth World Meteorological Congress had requested the Executive Council
to provide recommendations to the Eighteenth Congress on constituent body constructs,
Having considered the recommendations of the Working Group on Strategic and Operational
Planning concerning the construct and functions of regional associations,
Recommends to Congress draft Resolution XX (Cg-18) – WMO regional associations, as

provided in the annex to the present recommendation.
WMO regional associations
THE CONGRESS,
Recalling:
(2) Decision 84 (EC-68) – Governance review and Decision 68 (EC-69) – WMO constituent
body reform;
Expressing appreciation for the work carried out by the Executive Council concerning the
review of the WMO regional associations;
Expressing further appreciation to the presidents of regional associations and experts who
served in the regional associations subsidiary bodies during and before the eighteenth financial
period, for their leadership, commitment and contribution to the work of the Organization;
Having examined Recommendation 24 (EC-70) — Review of the WMO regional associations;
Recognizing that establishment of infrastructures and the implementation of science activities

and provision of services are undertaken at the national levels by Members, even those which
are offered for the benefit of all Members through global or regional contributions;
Recalling the core functions of the regional associations established in Article 18 of the
Convention.
[Article 18 (d) states: The functions of the regional associations shall be:
(i) To promote the execution of the resolutions of Congress and the Executive Council in
their respective Regions;
(ii) To consider matters brought to their attention by the Executive Council;
(iii) To discuss matters of general interest and to coordinate meteorological and related
activities in their respective Regions;
(iv) To make recommendations to Congress and the Executive Council on matters within
the purposes of the Organization;
(v) To perform such other functions as may be conferred on

them by Congress;]
Recognizing that the regional associations make recommendations to Congress and the
Executive Council on matters within the purposes of the Organization, and particularly in regard
with:
(1) Assessing emerging needs and priorities to inform the Organization-wide strategic and
operational planning processes and determining the activities and milestones needed to
achieve goals and objectives of the Organisation in the respective regions as outlined in
WMO Strategic Plan,
(2) Identifying capacity development needs of its Members to support the fulfilment of their
NMHS national mandates and achieve compliance with WMO adopted policies, technical
regulations and guidelines,
(3) Defining regional requirements for modernization of systems and services based on
collective needs of their Members;
Recognizing further that the requirements and expertise of regional associations should be
better utilized in the establishment of the tasks and plans of the technical commissions as well
as other bodies of the Organization;
Acknowledging:
(1) One of the key roles of Regional Associations is to encourage its Members’ cooperation and
collaborative activities that result in more effective regional, inter-regional and sub-regional
partnerships,
(2) The existence of many sub-regional groupings within or across the geographical, political
and economic domains of the current regional associations which provide for closer
collaboration and cooperation among Members at sub-global and sub-regional levels based
on various commonalities (language, technological level, inter-governmental agreements
etc.),
(3) That such cooperative and collaborative approaches should be strongly encouraged and
should be more effectively utilized within the current geographical construct of WMO
regional associations including through cross-regional cooperation;
Considering the need to improve the working mechanisms, in particular the complementary
roles of regional associations and technical commissions in the development and
implementation of global regional and national systems and services, including in the capacity
development, monitoring and evaluation activities;
Considering further that the effectiveness of regional associations activities and their
contribution to the WMO`s strategic objectives is dependent on the available secretariat support
through adequately resourced and properly geographically located WMO regional offices and
field (sub-regional offices);
Decides:
(1) That the current geographical scope of the regional associations as defined in
Regulation 162 would continue to be reviewed during the nineteenth financial period with
the aim of optimizing their efficiency and performance,
(2) To amend the General terms of reference of the regional associations in Annex II to the
General Regulations as provided in Annex,
(3) That the regional association should meet as often as necessary, and the plenary session
should continue to be organized following a 4-year cycle better aligned to support the WMO
Congressional meeting and planning cycles and shall be more productive and useful for
its Members, aimed at advancing regional priorities and producing clear action-oriented
outcomes,
(4) That the regional associations should be encouraged to influence and fully align with
the relevant structures of the technical commissions and with the strategic goals of the
WMO Strategic Plan. Furthermore, pursuing harmonized structures among all regional
associations would promote common approaches and better cross-regional cooperation;
(1) To oversee the continued review of the regional associations with the aim of making
recommendations on their form and function to Congress-19,
(2) To report on the implementation of this resolution at the nineteenth session of Congress;
Requests the presidents of the regional associations, supported by the respective management
groups, to lead a comprehensive review of the activities and working mechanisms of their
associations and report to the Executive Council with recommendations for improved processes
and mechanisms for enhanced regional and inter-regional cooperation and partnerships,
resource mobilization and plans for resolving existing capacity gaps and deficiencies;
Requests further the presidents of the regional associations:
(1) To coordinate with the presidents of technical commissions in nomination of experts by

members to ensure synergies with the respective regional bodies, better leverage the
resources and communicate regional requirements,
(2) To work with the other relevant bodies and the Secretariat towards establishing and
operating an effective performance monitoring and evaluation process that will provide
an objective assessment of attained capacity and performance of each Member and also
highlight critical deficiencies to be addressed as a matter of urgency,
(3) In addition to the above, coordinate closely with the presidents of the technical
commissions and the Secretariat in conveying regional priorities and requirements to
be considered in the work of technical commissions, as well as carrying out scheduled
performance monitoring and evaluation of the regional centres and facilities serving
Members,
(4) To strengthen their resource mobilization efforts with regional development agencies,
as well as their advocacy role with Members’ governments with regard to the needed
financial support to the NMHSs as the main providers of vital meteorological, climatological
hydrological and other related environmental information and services;
Invites the Members of the Organization to be proactive in their support and participation in
the regional cooperation activities that build the individual and collective capacity to provide
high quality services to the society, including through bilateral and multilateral agreements for
cost-effective service delivery, sharing experience and transfer of knowledge and know-how;
Requests the Secretary-General to take the required steps which will ensure adequate
resources for effective operation of the regional associations during the nineteenth financial
period.
Amendments to the general terms of reference of the regional associations

(Annex II to the General Regulations)
In carrying out the functions specified in Article 18 (d) of the Convention within the allotted
geographical areas defined in this Annex, under the general guidance of Congress and the
Executive Council and with support from the Secretariat, each regional association, in close
coordination and collaboration with other bodies concerned, shall:
1. Coordinate and organize its Members’ activities related to the planning, implementation
and evaluation of agreed programmes, strategies and activities, at the regional and
subregional levels;
2. Ensure that WMO is visible and recognized in its Region, and engage stakeholders in
regional initiatives and projects related to the strategic priorities of the Organization;
promote visibility and institutional capacity-building of its Members and subregions, and
identify and address critical deficiencies for long-term sustainable modern meteorological
services through the development of national strategic plan on meteorological services;
facilitate the exchange the best practices to communicate the societal-economic benefits of
meteorological services;
3. Identify requirements amongst members and regional bodies and communicate them
to technical commissions and impediments to the timely implementation of planned
programmes and activities; collaborate with Members, technical commissions and other
bodies, as necessary, to support, monitor and regularly review all the regional centers
established by WMO bodies, ensuring excellent performance, sustainable operation
and effective services to regional Members; consult with technical commissions on
the identification of common experts to assist with sharing of regional priorities and
requirements and implementation of technical priorities and associated capacity building
activities; identify technical gaps and promote training to develop future experts;
4. Promote cooperation and efficiency by establishing regional networks and facilities based
upon identified regional needs, in close coordination with the technical commissions
concerned; monitor the performance of regional networks and facilities, and the open
sharing of data and technical expertise, and require corrective measures, as necessary;
5. Contribute to the WMO operating plan and other implementation plans, as necessary, to
reflect agreed strategic priorities from a regional perspective and ensure the engagement
of Members in focused activities aimed at achieving the expected results of the WMO
Strategic Plan;
6. Structure its work to address regional priorities and make the best use of the expertise
of its Members to provide guidance and assistance, in accordance with the needs of the
Region;
7. Build and promote cooperation and partnerships with relevant regional organizations,
including the United Nations Regional Economic Commissions, other United Nations bodies,
subregional organizations, development partners, non-governmental organizations and
professional associations;
8. Advocate, through the presidents, with regional political and economic entities and
Members for the needed political and financial support to Members’ capabilities to ensure
provision of and access to vital meteorological, climatological hydrological and other
related environmental information and services.
WMO technical commissions and other bodies
Recalling:
(1) That the Seventeenth World Meteorological Congress had requested the Executive Council
to provide recommendations to the Eighteenth Congress on constituent body constructs,
Having considered:
(1) The functions of technical commissions as defined by Article 19 of the WMO Convention
and WMO General Regulations 180 to 196,
(2) The recommendations of the first 2018 session of the Working Group on Strategic and
Operational Planning concerning the construct of technical commissions (see EC-70/INF.
16),
(3) The concept of a revised system of technical commissions, as provided in Annex 1 to the
present recommendation,
(4) The importance of having effective mechanisms to strengthen scientific development for
the provision of better weather, climate and related environmental services,
(5) The importance for the Organization of benefitting from independent, high-level scientific
advice on global societal trends and challenges,
Having further considered:
(1) The alternative proposal by the fourteenth meeting of the Conference of Directors of the
Ibero-American Meteorological and Hydrological Services (CIMHET), advocating three
commissions for services and applications,
(2) The success of the Open Science Conferences,
(3) The outcomes of the Global Conference: Prosperity through Hydrological Services, held in
Geneva from 7 to 9 May 2018, and of the Executive Council Special Dialogue on Water, held
on 25 June 2018, which encouraged WMO to take on a stronger role in the evolving global
water agenda in order to realize opportunities and benefits for Members,
(4) That the extraordinary session of the Commission for Hydrology (December 2018) has
been charged (Resolution 18 (EC-70) – Outcomes of the Special Dialogue on Water) with
engaging the hydrological community in: (a) suggesting optimal solutions for effective
participation of WMO in the global water agenda, and (b) providing recommendations to
Congress on ways to integrate hydrological activities into the new WMO structure,
(5) That the specific conditions under which the national hydrological services currently
operate and the new direction WMO will take with regard to strengthening its hydrological
profile may require specific organizational structures and working mechanisms to
enable WMO to effectively promote and integrate activities in operational hydrology, and
contribute effectively to, and benefit from, the integrated Earth system approach embraced
by WMO in the new Strategic Plan,
Recommends to Congress:
(1) Draft Resolution XX/1 (Cg-18) – Establishment of WMO technical commissions and
other bodies for the nineteenth financial period, as provided in Annex 1 to the present
recommendation;
(2) Draft Resolution XX/2 (Cg-18) – Research Board, as provided in Annex 2 to the present
recommendation;
(3) Draft Resolution XX/3 (Cg-18) – Joint WMO-IOC Committee for Oceanography and
Meteorology, as provided in Annex 3 to the present recommendation;
(4) Draft Resolution XX/4 (Cg-18) – Scientific Advisory Panel, as provided in Annex 4 to the
present recommendation.
Establishment of WMO technical commissions and other bodies

for the nineteenth financial period
THE CONGRESS,
Recalling:
(2) Decision 84 (EC-68) – Governance review, and Decision 68 (EC-69) – WMO constituent
body reform,
(3) Resolution 43 (Cg-XVI) – Terms of reference of the technical commissions,
Expressing appreciation for the work carried out by the Executive Council and its Working
Group on Strategic and Operational Planning concerning the construct of technical commissions,
Having examined Recommendation 25 (EC-70) – WMO technical commissions and other

bodies,
Recognizing:
(1) That in accordance with the Convention, Congress has established and reviewed from time
to time commissions consisting of technical experts to study and make recommendations
to Congress and the Executive Council on subjects within the purpose of the Organization,
(2) That the technical commissions, as per their general terms of reference (Annex III to the
General Regulations) have been tasked:
(a) To study and review advances in science and technology, keep Members informed
and advise Congress, the Executive Council and other constituent bodies on these
advances and their implications,
(b) To develop, for consideration by the Executive Council and Congress, proposed
international standards for methods, procedures, techniques and practices in
meteorology and operational hydrology including, in particular, the relevant parts of
the Technical Regulations, guides and manuals,
(3) That the Congress had classified the technical commissions into two groups:
(a) Basic commissions – dealing with basic operations and facilities, and research in
atmospheric sciences,
(b) Application commissions – dealing with applications to economic and social activities,
(4) That the technical commissions have played a major role in engaging the collective
expertise of Members in coordinating the design and development of globally harmonized
systems and services operated by Members, development of related standards and
guidance, which have contributed to the achievement of the purposes of the Organization
and bringing benefits to its Members,
Recognizing further:
(1) That the rapidly changing technological and institutional environment and the growing
societal demand for information and services in all WMO business areas will require a
holistic and integrated approach along the service delivery value chain,
(2) That such holistic approach would be achieved through consolidation and streamlining of
expertise and normative work in major organizational domains covering: (a) the integrated
infrastructure and methodology for Earth system observations, information management,
and generation of forecasts and products, and (b) the development of applications and
services, and related methodologies for service delivery to governments, citizens and
economic sectors, and c) focused scientific research and capacity development,
(3) That the restructuring of the technical commissions is intended to support the Strategic
Plan, which aims to support the development of:
(a) An Earth system science approach to seamless prediction from climate scales down to
the mesoscale that is built upon the concept of the weather, water, ocean and climate
linkage,
(b) An integrated approach to weather, water, ocean and climate linkages supporting
Members’ effort to ultimately unify operational prediction systems using a fully
coupled Earth system model approach, concerned with changes in the ocean that have
a direct influence on the atmosphere and other elements of the Earth system across
all time scales,
(c) A holistic, interdisciplinary approach to services and applications with a strong focus
on users and use cases, promoting impact-based approach and supporting common
development of standards and methodologies for generic service attributes like
quality, competence, fitness for purpose, accessibility, as well as innovation in service
delivery (e.g. through social media),
(4) That, given the capacity development needs of Members, the efficiencies and savings
gained from the restructuring of technical commissions will be re-aligned to support
activities aimed at enhancing the capacity of Members;
Considering the need to maintain and strengthen the leadership of the Organization in the
domains of weather, climate, water and related environmental aspects;
Considering further the review and recommendations of the extraordinary session of

the Commission for Hydrology (CHy-Ext) by the EC Working Group on WMO Strategic and
Operational Planning (WG/SOP);
Recognizing that, in view of the scale of the restructuring, which is unprecedented in the
WMO history, the transition from the existing to the new structure should be realized through
a transparent and well-managed process encompassing proactive change management with
special focus on communication with all stakeholders, in particular, the regional associations
and their Members;
Decides:
(1) To establish, in accordance with Article 8 (g) of the Convention, the following technical
commissions for the nineteenth financial period:
(a) Commission for Observation, Infrastructure and Information Systems (COIIS), with
terms of reference provided in Annex A; and
(b) Commission for Weather, Climate, Water and Related Environmental Services and
Applications (CSA), with terms of reference provided in Annex B;
(2) That the fundamental working principle of the new commissions should be the
inclusiveness of the weather, climate, water and other relevant environmental areas
covered by the WMO constitutional purpose;
(3) That, due to the multidisciplinary nature and increased work volume the composition and
working arrangements of the new commissions should be elaborated to ensure balanced
representation of relevant disciplines, active and balanced regional engagement and
gender considerations;
(4) That the two technical commissions shall commence their work as early as possible
in accordance with the Transition Plan as provided in Resolution 36 (EC-70)) – WMO
Constituent Bodies ReformTransition Plan and Communication Strategy;
(5) That, in accordance with final paragraph of Article 8 of the Convention, the president of
each new commission and their vice-presidents will be elected by Congress, from amongst
current presidents and vice-presidents of technical commissions, as one-time measure
aimed at expediting the transition to the new structure of the technical commissions,
(6) Upon completion of the transition period, to disband the existing technical commissions
that have been active during the eighteenth financial period, as follows:
Commission for Basic Systems (CBS);
Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation (CIMO);
Commission for Hydrology (CHy) (pending CHy-Ext recommendations);
Commission for Atmospheric Sciences (CAS);
Commission for Aeronautical Meteorology (CAeM);
Commission for Agricultural Meteorology (CAgM);
Joint WMO-IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM);
Commission for Climatology (CCl);
Expresses appreciation to the presidents and experts who served in the technical
commissions during and before the eighteenth financial period for their leadership, commitment
and contribution to the work of the Organization;
Elects … [names] to serve as president and [three names] as vice-presidents of …;
Adopts the amendment to the General Regulations related to the work and specific terms of
reference of the technical commissions as presented in the Annex to this Resolution;
Requests the Executive Council to oversee the transition to the new technical commissions and
report on the implementation of this resolution at the nineteenth session of Congress;
Requests the presidents of the new technical commissions to ensure establishment of optimum
subsidiary structures as needed to implement the Strategic Plan in the most efficient and
effective manner;
Requests further the presidents of the new technical commissions:
(1) To endeavour to maximize efficiency and synergy through establishing strong liaison with
relevant internal and external bodies, including, where appropriate, joint bodies and/or
inter-agency bodies as well as relevant global and regional partnerships;
(2) To report on the subsidiary structure and the working plans of the commissions at the
seventieth-second session of the Executive Council (2020);
(3) To establish working mechanisms and processes that will respond to the priorities and
requirements set by Members by developing technical solutions to meet those priorities
and requirements in consultation with regional associations, to ensure the solutions are
feasible, affordable and implementable at the regional and national levels;
Requests Members to support the establishment of a solid community of expertise that will
underpin the technical commissions by nominating knowledgeable, experienced and motivated
professionals in the related technical fields and to support their work in the commissions, in
terms of adequate working time and financial commitment, in order to ensure the leadership
role of the commissions in the development of global standards, applying innovation and
building national, regional and global technical capacity needed to achieve the purposes of the
Organization;
Requests the presidents of regional associations to work actively with their Members to ensure
that nominated experts are representative of geographic, gender and technical diversity, in
order to facilitate comprehensive input on regional needs and issues, as well as to facilitate
implementation and uptake of evolving technical systems, standards and regulations at national
and regional levels;
Requests the Secretary-General to take the required steps that will ensure the smooth
transition to the new arrangement of technical commissions in accordance with the transition
plan.
Note: This resolution replaces Resolution 43 (Cg-XVI) – Terms of reference of the technical
commissions, Resolution 4 (EC-LX) – Role and terms of reference of the Meetings of
Presidents of Technical Commissions, Resolution 3 (EC-66) – Coordination between
regional associations and technical commissions, and Resolution 14 (Cg-XIII) – Joint
WMO-IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM),
which are no longer in force.
Annex 1 to draft Resolution XX/1 (Cg-18)
Terms of reference of the technical commissions
Note: The General Terms of Reference of Technical Commissions provided in Annex III to the
General regulations will remain unchanged.
A. Commission for Observation, Infrastructure and Information Systems (COIIS)
General mandate
The overall scope and specific terms of reference for the Commission for Observation,
Infrastructure and Information Systems (COIIS) shall be in accordance with the purposes of
Organization defined in Article 2 of the Convention, in particular, items (a) through (c) and
(e), and Regulations 180 to 196 and Annex III (as amended by this resolution) of the General
Regulations.
The Commission shall contribute to: development and implementation of globally coordinated
systems for acquiring, processing, transmitting and disseminating Earth system observations,
and related standards; coordination of the production and use of standardized analysis and
model forecast fields; and development and implementation of sound data and information
management practices for all WMO Programmes and their associated application and services
areas.
The work of the Commission shall encompass all approved WMO application areas, as listed in
the Rolling Review of Requirements, as well as updated and emerging observing, information
and infrastructure requirements.
The Commission shall promote the development of integrated systems to cover all application
areas wherever possible, and shall ensure that these systems:
(a) Are user-driven and provide earth system observations, processed data and relevant
services products and information to Members;
(b) Are applicable, accessible and with life-cycle management across the full range of WMO
Members;
(c) Are built on a modular and scalable principle to the extent possible;
(d) Make full use of existing WMO and other relevant standards and regulations;
(e) Make use of and promote public-private engagement where advantageous;
(f) Incorporate state-of-art optimal and fit-for-purpose technology;
(g) Are based on user requirements developed in coordination with CSA and the Research
Board;
(h) Are building upon existing partnerships and networks among communities of practice
within the service areas, which are beneficial for WMO Members.
The activities of the Commission shall be guided by the WMO Strategic Plan.
Specific terms of reference
(a) Development and maintenance of WMO normative material related to integrated observing
systems, data transmission and dissemination systems, data management systems, and
data processing and forecast systems as specified in WMO Technical Regulations – the
Commission shall:
(i) Coordinate development of new systems and infrastructure-related regulatory

material in application areas of its scope;
(ii) Promote and pursue integration of existing regulatory material;
(iii) Keep regulatory material up-to-date through regular amendments, as necessary;
(iv) Ensure the consistency of the new and amended regulatory material across the
application areas;
(v) Consider relevant scientific and technological developments to ensure the currency of
the regulatory material;
(vi) Accompany recommendations for new and amended regulatory material with related
impact, cost-benefit, and risk analysis;
(b) Common infrastructure and systems attributes – the Commission shall:
(i) Promote a culture of compliance with standards and relevant regulatory material
among all Members;
(ii) Further develop and promote the use of the Rolling Review of Requirements (RRR) for
the assessment of user requirements, the assessment of available capabilities, and
the development of gap mitigation strategies in to further improve the overall systems
capabilities of WMO;
(iii) Develop and promote a unified approach to data management across all disciplines
and WMO applications areas;
(iv) Develop common methodologies for quality assurance of observations and other data
products across all application areas;
(v) Actively seek engagement of Earth system observational data providers from
all relevant government entities, international organizations, private sector, and
academia.
(c) Assistance to Members to enhance systems capabilities and enable effective

implementation and compliance – the Commission shall:
(i) Consult with regional associations and Members to identify needs for improvements in
observing, data transmission and data management capabilities services and develop
the required implementation strategies;
(ii) Consult with regional associations to identify experts who can participate in technical
commission teams, to facilitate implementation and uptake of evolving technical
systems, standards and regulations at national and regional levels;
(iii) Facilitate the regional and national implementation of systems under its remit by
developing guidance material aligned with new and amended regulatory material;
(iv) In consultation with the regional associations, identify needs for assistance to
Members to improve their capabilities and provide relevant guidance and capacity
building, including training;
(v) Propose pilot and demonstration projects as necessary;
(vi) Facilitate transfer of knowledge by supporting relevant events and through

communication and outreach activities;
(vii) Providing standards and regulations for the basic measurement of variables
characterising water quantity, quality and sediments; (pending CHy-Ext
recommendations)
(viii) Support the technical aspects of the Hydrological Status and Outlook System and
the state of the water report; (pending CHy-Ext recommendations)
(d) Cooperation and partnership – the Commission shall:
(i) Establish close coordination and efficient working mechanisms with the Commission
for Weather, Climate, Water and Related Environmental Services and Applications
(CSA), relevant international organizations in the area of meteorological, hydrological,
climatological and other environmental observations, information and infrastructure;
(ii) Establish and maintain close collaboration and coordination with WMO co-sponsored
system and programmes, and other major international observing programmes and
initiatives;
(iii) Establish in the collaboration with the Research Board consultative mechanisms with
relevant scientific and operational user organizations to receive feedback and advice
(e.g. ECMWF, EUMETSAT, EUMETNET, UNFCCC, FAO) on systems capabilities;
(iv) Consider opportunities for leveraging resources through establishment of joint,

including inter-agency, bodies and projects addressing common areas of system
development.
Composition
The composition of the Commission shall be in accordance with General Regulation 183.
Participation of leading technical experts in Earth system observations, information

management and predictions in the fields of meteorology, hydrology, climatology, oceanography,
atmospheric environment and other fields covered by the terms of reference shall be ensured
by Members.
UN and international organizations partners, private partners of WMO may be invited to

nominate technical experts in their areas of expertise to participate in the work of the
Commission in accordance with General Regulation 184.
Working procedures
The Commission shall elect a president and vice-president(s) among the experts on the
Commission.
The Commission shall establish effective and efficient working mechanisms and related
necessary time-limited subsidiary bodies:
(a) Establish a work programme with concrete deliverables and timelines, aligned with the
Organization-wide Strategic and Operating Plan and monitor progress on annual basis by
reporting to the Executive Council and Congress;
(b) Use effectively electronic forms of coordination and collaboration;
(c) Establish effective coordination with other technical commissions, the Research Board,
JCOM and other relevant bodies in particular through the Executive Council’s Technical
Coordination Committee, as appropriate;
(d) Organize communication and outreach to inform the WMO community of ongoing work,
achievements and opportunities;
(e) Apply a system for recognition of achievements, promotion of innovation and include young
professionals;
(f) Ensure regional and gender balance and inclusiveness in all its structures and work plans;
(g) Ensure adequate representation and consultation with communities of practice among the
service areas.
B. Commission for Weather, Climate, Water and Related Environmental Services and
Applications (CSA)
General mandate
The Commission for Weather, Climate, Water and Related Environmental Services and
Applications (CSA) scope and specific terms of reference shall be in accordance with the
purposes of Organization defined in Article 2 of the Convention, in particular, items (d) and
(e); Regulations 180 to 196 and Annex III (as amended by this resolution) of the General
Regulations.
The Commission shall contribute to the development and implementation of globally harmonized
weather, climate, water, ocean and environment related services and applications to enable
informed decision making and realization of socioeconomic benefits by all user communities and
society as a whole.
The Commission shall encompass application areas with substructures as needed to implement
the strategic plan including, but not limited to:
(a) Regulated and existing meteorological services (covered by WMO Technical Regulations
(WMO-No. 49), in accordance with General Terms of Reference 2):
(i) aeronautical meteorological services;
(ii) marine and oceanographic meteorological services;
(iii) agrometeorological services;
(iv) public weather services;
(v) climatological services;

(vi) hydrological services; (pending CHy-Ext recommendations)
(b) Emerging services under development (currently subject of studies and evaluation for
possible inclusion in regulated services, in accordance with General Terms of Reference 1):
(i) urban services;
(ii) environmental services;
(iii) multi-hazard early warning services;
(iv) polar and mountain area services;
(v) health;
(vi) energy;
(vii) water management (pending CHy-Ext recommendations)
(vii) land transportation;
(viii) other, as may become necessary.
(c) Potential category for hydrological services (pending CHy-Ext recommendations)
The Commission shall promote a holistic approach to services and service delivery and assist
Members to apply:
(a) Risk-based decision-making in support of disaster risk preparedness and reduction;
(b) A service-oriented culture;
(c) A strong user focus with ‘fit-for-purpose’ services;
(d) Quality management in service delivery;
(e) Standards for competence and qualification of personnel;
(f) Mutually-beneficial public-private engagement providing optimized service delivery and

added value to the society;
(g) Accelerated uptake of advanced technology for service delivery;
(h) Systematic evaluation of socio-economic benefits and other relevant market-oriented

evaluations of products and services.
The activities of the Commission shall be guided by the WMO Strategic Plan and the WMO
Strategy for Service Delivery.
(a) Development and maintenance of WMO normative material related to service delivery,
as specified in WMO Technical Regulations, Volume I and its relevant Annexes, the
Commission shall:
(i) Coordinate development of new service-oriented regulatory material in all application

areas of its scope based on identified needs of Members;
(ii) Keep the service-related regulatory material up-to-date through regular amendments,
as necessary;
(iii) Ensure the consistency of the new and amended regulatory material across the
application areas;
(iv) Enhance capacity for prediction and service delivery;
(v) Consider relevant scientific and technological developments to ensure the currency of
the regulatory material;
(vi) Together with the COIIS and the Research Board, coordinate linking science,
infrastructure and services interactively;
(vii) Accompany recommendations for new and amended regulatory material with related
impact, cost-benefit, and risk analysis.
(b) Common service delivery attributes – the Commission shall:
(i) Promote service-oriented culture in all relevant application areas including a customer
focus, quality management, understanding of the value and socioeconomic benefits;
(ii) Share best practices and develop harmonized methodologies for user engagement
including identification of requirements and establishment of feedback mechanisms
with users necessary for continuous improvement of services;
(iii) Develop methodologies for impact-based products and services in all application
areas, innovative service delivery methods and integrated platforms;
(iv) Ensure harmonization of requirements for competency and qualification of personnel

involved in service delivery;
(v) Develop common methodology for verification and validation of information and
service delivery as part of quality management;
(vi) Build through appropriate studies and projects a better understanding of the
economics of service delivery, cost-recovery mechanisms, commercial and market
elements, and develop respective guidance to Members;
(vii) Seek the engagement of service providers from private sector and academia.
(viii) Promote global and regional partnerships, including building upon existing
partnerships and networks among communities of practice among the service areas,
which are beneficial for WMO Members.
(c) Assistance to Members to enhance service delivery capabilities and enable effective
implementation and compliance – the Commission shall:
(i) Consult with regional associations and Members to identify needs for new and
improved services and analyse related capabilities, and best practices;
(ii) Consult with regional associations to identify experts who can participate in technical
commission teams, to facilitate implementation and uptake of evolving services and
applications, standards and regulations at national and regional levels;
(iii) Facilitate the implementation by developing guidance material aligned with the
promulgation of new and amended regulatory material;
(iv) In consultation with the regional associations, identify needs for assistance to
Members and provide relevant guidance and capacity development activities including
training;
(v) Propose pilot and demonstration projects as necessary;
(vi) Facilitate transfer of knowledge and best practices by supporting relevant events and
through communication and outreach activities.
(d) Cooperation and partnership – the Commission shall:
(i) Establish close coordination and efficient working mechanisms with relevant
international organizations such as ICAO, IMO, FAO in the area of service delivery;
(ii) Establish consultative mechanisms with user organizations to receive feedback and
advice on services;
(iii) Consider opportunities for leveraging resources through establishment of joint,

including inter-agency, bodies and/or projects addressing common areas of service
delivery.
Composition
The composition of the Commission shall be in accordance with General Regulation 183.
Participation of leading technical experts in services and applications in the field of meteorology,
climatology, hydrology, ocean and the other fields covered by these terms of reference, shall be
ensured by Members.
UN, international organizations and private sector partners of WMO may be invited to nominate
technical experts in their areas of expertise to participate in the work of the Commission in
accordance with General Regulation 184.
Working procedures
The Commission shall elect a president and three vice-presidents among the experts on the
Commission.
The Commission shall establish effective and efficient working mechanisms and related
necessary time-limited subsidiary bodies:
(a) Establish effective and efficient working mechanisms through an adequate number of
subsidiary bodies;
(b) Make an effective use of a broad community of practice encompassing Members collective
expertise, including the private and academia sectors;
(c) Establish a work programme with concrete deliverables and timelines, aligned with the
Organization-wide Strategic and Operating Plan and monitor progress regularly appropriate
performance indicators and targets;
(d) Use effectively electronic forms of coordination and collaboration;
(e) Establish effective coordination with other technical commissions, the Research Board,
JCOM and other relevant bodies, in particular through the Executive Council’s TCC, as
appropriate;
(f) Organize effective communication and outreach to inform community of ongoing work,
achievements and opportunities;
(g) Apply a system for recognition of achievements, promotion of innovation and the
participation of young professionals;
(h) Ensure regional and gender balance and inclusiveness in all its structures and work plans;
(i) Ensure adequate representation and consultation with communities of practice among the
service areas.
Research Board
THE CONGRESS,
Recalling:
(1) Decision 50 (EC-69) – An integrated research and development approach, which includes
the main principles to fill the gap between research and operations and to better integrate
science in WMO activities,
(2) Decision 52 (EC-69) – Early career research scientist involvement in WMO activities, which
requested all Members to promote and support the early career scientist activities and
make them beneficial and accessible to young researchers in their own countries and
worldwide,
(3) Recommendation 1 (CAS-17) – The role of science in serving society, which requested
the Executive Council Working Group on Strategic and Operational Planning to take into
account the need for a stronger WMO leadership in science and research and to strengthen
the integrated role of research in the “science-for-services” context,
(4) Recommendation 2 (CAS-17) – Seamless prediction systems, which recommended

strengthening partnerships with the United Nations system and other international
organizations to promote the WMO research agenda towards seamless prediction, and
promoting innovation across the WMO technical programmes and activities to ensure the
co-design of new and improved services and products,
Considering that the implementation of the WMO Strategic and Operating Plans will benefit
significantly from effective uptake of research into operational systems and political decision
making needs a solid scientific foundation,
Considering further the need for a mechanism to coordinate the implementation of the
research programmes of the Organization to deliver on the long-term goals and strategic
objectives of the Strategic Plan, assisted by the guidance provided by the Scientific Advisory
Panel established by Resolution 35 (EC-70),
Decides, according to article 8(h) of the Convention, to establish the Research Board on
Weather, Climate, Water and the Environment with the terms of reference as given in the Annex
to this Resolution.
regional associations and technical commissions.
Annex to draft Resolution XX/2 (Cg-18)
Terms of reference of the Research Board on Weather,

Climate, Water and the Environment
Research Board on Weather, Climate, Water and the Environment

Mandate
The Research Board translates the strategic aims of WMO and decisions of the Council and
Congress into overarching research priorities, and ensures the implementation and coordination
of the research programmes to achieve these priorities in accordance with the purposes of
Organization defined in Article 2(f) of the Convention.
The Board shall coordinate implementation and resourcing of WMO research programmes taking
into account the advice of the Executive Council Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP). The Board
shall address Members’ needs and support implementation of the WMO Strategic Plan based
on science and implementation plans approved by the Executive Council and any co-sponsor
governing bodies, as appropriate, for WMO research programmes and activities.
The Board specifically shall:
(a) Promote convergence and integration between the various research programmes inside of
and external to WMO, where appropriate,
(b) Initiate, coordinate and promote research activities in weather, climate, water and
related environmental aspects through the WMO and co-sponsored research programmes
(WCRP, GCOS, GOOS, WWRP, GAW and possible future research programmes) taking into
account the advice provided by SAP and taking into consideration different needs amongst
members,
(c) Guide the implementation of WMO research programmes and act as the primary point of
contact related to weather, climate, water and related environmental research aspects in
WMO,
(d) Ensure close coordination and cooperation between the WMO research programmes and
eliminate duplication in structures and bodies,
(e) Maintain an optimal balance between weather, climate, water, ocean and environmental
research initiatives and promote the synergies among such initiatives,
(f) Ensure that the research programmes are implemented according to agreed
implementation plans and that such plans are current,
(g) Promote the co-design of research initiatives aimed at strengthening the ‘science-to-
service’ link between user needs and research project design and between research and
operations, to benefit service delivery to Members,
(h) Promote activities to strengthen scientific development in relevant areas for the benefit of
all Members and particularly for developing countries and SIDS,
(i) Ensure close coordination among the physical and social sciences,
(j) Promote the science to service and applications,
(k) Establish effective coordination with technical commissions, JCOM and other relevant
bodies, as appropriate,
(l) Organize effective communication and outreach to inform community of ongoing work,
achievements and opportunities,
(m) Apply a system for recognition of achievements, promotion of innovation and the
participation of young professionals.
Composition
The Board shall be composed of an optimum number of leading research scientists and
research funding managers active in the fields of weather, climate, water, ocean and related
environmental and social sciences, taking into account geographical balance and reflecting the
WMO gender equality policy, including:
(a) The chairs of the scientific oversight/steering committees of the WMO research
programmes (WCRP, WWRP, GAW) as ex officio members,
(b) Representatives from IOC and ICSU and major global and regional research funding
organizations based on the Research Board chair and SAP advice,
(c) One representative from each regional association based on their capacity to connect with
regional scientific institutions and activities.
The term of engagement shall be of four years with the possibility to renew once for a further
four years; for ex officio members the duration shall be based on that of their term.
Working procedures
The Board will have a chair and a vice-chair, appointed by Congress. The members will be
appointed by the EC.
The Research Board chair, based on recommendations from IOC, ICSU, other relevant
international research initiatives, and SAP will propose the three chairs of the research
programmes (WWRP, GAW and WCRP), who will be appointed by Executive Council. In case of
co-sponsored research programmes, the chair shall be selected by mutual agreement between
co-sponsoring organizations.
The chair of the Research Board has the responsibility to ensure coordination of the work in
the Research Board with the presidents of the TCs and RAs, who similarly shall coordinate their
work with the Research Board chair.
The Board shall meet in principle once per year.
The Board may establish time-bound substructures for the discharge of specific tasks during an
intersessional period. Such temporary substructures shall be discontinued at the end of every
intersessional period.
The Board shall ensure regional and gender balance and inclusiveness in all its structures and
work plans.
Joint WMO-IOC Committee for Oceanography and Meteorology
THE CONGRESS,
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 14 (Cg-XIII) – Joint WMO-IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and
Marine Meteorology (JCOMM),
(2) IOC Resolution XX-12 – Joint WMO-IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and
Marine Meteorology (JCOMM),
Considering the revision of the system of technical commissions as decided by this resolution,
Considering also the expanded collaboration between WMO and IOC of UNESCO in
marine meteorology and oceanography, including in services, observation and information
management, research and capacity building,
Considering further the evolving needs of a coordinating mechanism between WMO and IOC
of UNESCO to support such collaborative activities,
Considering the work of the Joint WMO-IOC Consultation Team on the reform of JCOMM
established by Decision 58 (EC-70),
Decides, according to article 8 (h) of the Convention:
(1) To integrate JCOMM components on observation, data management, and processing and
forecasting systems into the Commission for Observation, Infrastructure and Information
Systems, recognizing IOC co-sponsorship by relevant structures;
(2) To integrate JCOMM component on services into the Commission for Services and
Applications, recognizing IOC co-sponsorship by relevant structures;
(3) To establish the Joint WMO-IOC Committee for Oceanography and Meteorology (JCOM), as
a high-level coordination mechanism with broader engagement of the key relevant bodies
of the WMO and IOC, with the terms of reference as given in the Annex to this Resolution;
Invites the Assembly of IOC to reflect in its decisions the content of this Resolution as it
applies to the Joint WMO-IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology;
Instructs the Secretary-General to consult with the Executive Secretary of the IOC on the
further definition of the working arrangements of the Joint WMO-IOC Committee for
Oceanography and Meteorology and its substructures and to report on implementation
at the seventy-second session of the Executive Council.
regional associations and technical commissions, and Resolution 14 (Cg-XIII) – Joint
WMO-IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM),
which are no longer in force.
Terms of reference of the Joint WMO-IOC Committee for

Oceanography and Meteorology
Joint WMO-IOC Committee for Oceanography and Meteorology
The terms of reference of the Joint WMO-IOC Committee for Oceanography and Meteorology
(JCOM) shall be:
Mandate
(a) To provide guidance on the coordinated or collaborative development, integration and

implementation of the activities related to oceanographic, meteorological, hydrological
and climatological observation, data and information management, and services and
forecasting systems as well as research carried out by WMO and IOC subsidiary bodies:
(i) For WMO, the Commission for Observation, Infrastructure and Information Systems,
the Commission for Services and Applications and the Research Board,
(ii) For IOC, the Committee on International Oceanographic Data and Information
Exchange (IODE), the Working Group on Tsunamis and Other Hazards Related to Sea-
Level Warning and Mitigation Systems (TOWS-WG) and the Intergovernmental Panel
on Harmful Algal Blooms (IPHAB),
(iii) The co-sponsored entities: Global Climate Observing System (GCOS), Global Ocean
Observing System (GOOS) and World Climate Research Programme (WCRP);
(b) To report to WMO and IOC governing bodies on these activities, propose new action, as
required, and advise them regarding:
(i) Instructions to the relevant subsidiary bodies,
(ii) Any liaison or consultation required with relevant intergovernmental and international
stakeholders.
Membership
The membership of JCOM shall be constituted by:
(a) Representatives from WMO and IOC subsidiary bodies:
(i) For WMO, two members of the Commission for Observation, Infrastructure and
Information Systems, covering observation, data and information management,
and data processing and forecasting systems, two members of the Commission for
Services and Applications, covering services, appointed by the respective presidents,
and a member of the Research Board appointed by the chair,
(ii) For IOC, the chairpersons of the IODE Committee, the TOWS-WG and IPHAB;
(b) The chairs of the steering committees of entities jointly sponsored by WMO and IOC:1
(i) Global Climate Observing System,
(ii) Global Ocean Observing System,
(ii) World Climate Research Programme;
(c) Members of the WMO and IOC governing bodies:
(i) Three members of the WMO Executive Council appointed by the President, taking into
account geographical distribution and gender balance,
(ii) Three members of the IOC Executive Council appointed by the Chairperson, taking
into account geographical distribution and gender balance;
(d) One representative of the International Maritime Organization;
1
GOOS-SC being already represented under (a) (ii).
(e) No more than four experts appointed by the co-chairs.
Working procedures
The Committee shall be co-chaired by two co-chairs, one for oceanography and one from
meteorology, elected among the members.
The co-chairs shall hold their office for one intersessional period, with the possibility to be re-
elected for a second term.
The members elected in WMO and IOC governing and subsidiary bodies and co-sponsored
programmes shall also hold their office based on the duration of their term; the experts shall
hold their office for one intersessional period, with the possibility to be re-confirmed for a
second term.
The co-chairs shall represent the Committee in the sessions of the WMO and IOC governing and
subsidiary bodies.
The Committee shall meet in principle in person every two years, in conjunction with the
sessions of the WMO and IOC governing bodies, alternating with the WMO Congress and the
IOC Assembly. Intersessional work should be carried out by correspondence or virtual means.
The Committee may establish time-bound substructures for the discharge of specific tasks
during an intersessional period, provided that this is at no cost for the parent bodies. Such
temporary substructures shall be discontinued at the end of every intersessional period.
For the first intersessional period following the adoption of this Resolution, the Committee shall
be co-chaired by the current co-presidents of the Joint WMO-IOC Technical Commission for
Oceanography and Marine Meteorology.
Chairs of other relevant WMO and IOC working groups, panels and expert teams may be invited
by the co-chairs to attend meetings of the Committee as required by the agenda.
Representatives from other United Nations or international organizations may be invited as

members of or observers to the Committee as deemed appropriate.
The WMO Secretary-General and the IOC Executive Secretary shall evaluate the financial and
secretariat support requirements for the Committee and make adequate provisions in their
budget proposals to the respective governing bodies.
Note: Article 26 of the Convention refers to relations with other organizations.

Regulations 38–45 refer to joint working groups in principle of the duration of one
intersessional period.
Regulation 181 refers to joint technical commissions.
Scientific Advisory Panel
THE CONGRESS,
Recalling the global societal challenges underlying the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development, the Paris Agreement on climate change and the Sendai Framework for Disaster
Risk Reduction and the resulting demand for multi-disciplinary scientific foresight;
Considering that benefiting from independent scientific advice would strengthen the ability of
the WMO to gain from scientific and technological breakthroughs in order to lead advancements
in weather, climate, water and related environmental fields to address the above challenges;
Decides, according to article 8(h) of the Convention, to establish the Scientific Advisory Panel
with the terms of reference as given in the Annex to this Resolution.
Terms of reference of the Scientific Advisory Panel
Scientific Advisory Panel
Mandate
The Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP) shall be the scientific advisory body of the Organization,
drawing up opinions and recommendations to Congress and to the Executive Council on
matters concerning WMO research strategies and the optimal scientific directions to support
the evolution of its mandate in weather, climate, water and related environmental and social
sciences. The Panel shall provide forward-looking strategic advice on emerging challenges and
opportunities, and in particular:
(1) Advise on areas in which, on the basis of available evidence, new technological and
scientific advancement would open to new applications related to WMO core activities,
(2) Promote the global standing and visibility of WMO as a leading scientific organization in the
fields of weather, climate, water and related environmental and social sciences within the
UN and otherwise, and enhance the WMO role as facilitator of international cooperation in
weather, climate, water, ocean and environmental sciences among all role players,
(3) Promote science vision, and its downstream trends, with WMO and among its Members
as the primary driver for innovation, understanding and the development of new and
improved weather, climate, water, ocean and related environmental services and
know-how,
Composition
The Panel shall be composed of maximum fifteen independent leading internationally recognized
experts coming from the fields of weather, climate, water, ocean and related environmental and
social sciences.
The opportunity to become a member of the Panel shall be announced publicly for individuals to
put their name forward. The members of the Panel shall be appointed by the Executive Council,
taking into account regional and gender balance and representation of academia, research
bodies, the private sector and user communities reflecting the breadth of engagement in WMO
Research Programmes. The selection of the names to be proposed to the Executive Council to
be appointed as Panel members shall be done by the Secretariat in consultation with the chair
of the Research Board. The term of engagement for members shall be for four years with a
possibility to be renewed for a second term.
A WMO Vice-President shall act as an Executive Council focal point for the Panel to ensure
cross-communication.
The chair of the Research Board and a representative of the Secretariat shall take part in the
meetings of the Panel.
Working procedures
The Panel shall select a chair and a vice-chair.
The Panel shall meet in principle once per year prior to a session of Executive Council.
The chair of the Research Board together with the Secretariat shall support the chair of the
Panel in setting up and executing the meetings. The chair of the Panel may invite experts and/
or representatives from partner organizations to attend meetings of the Panel as observers.
Extraordinary session of the World Meteorological Congress in 2021
Recalling:
(1) Resolution 35 (EC-70) – WMO Executive Council structures,
(2) Resolution 36 (EC-70) – WMO Constituent Bodies Reform Transition Plan and
Communication Strategy,
(3) Recommendation 22 (EC-70) – Officers of the Organization,
(4) Recommendation 23 (EC-70) – WMO Executive Council,
(5) Recommendation 24 (EC-70) – Review of the WMO regional associations,
(6) Recommendation 25 (EC-70) – WMO technical commissions and other bodies,
Considering the high expectations placed on the National Meteorological and Hydrological
Services of WMO Members, together with their various international and national partners from
public, private and academic sectors, to provide vital support in the pursuit of the global goals
established by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement and the
Sendai Framework, and that these expectations require a new level of dynamic consultation and
coordination between Members,
Stressing the need to enhance and strengthen institutional arrangements to deliver on the
WMO mandate related to provision of information and services for sustainable management of
water resources,
Cognizant of the rapid progress in science and technology which constantly brings
opportunities for improvements in the quality of services with benefits to society,
Recognizing the need to ensure a similarly rapid uptake of innovation in the evolution of the
Organization’s main systems for the collection and exchange of observations and predictions,
and for service provision, which necessitate expeditious amendments to the framework of the
WMO Technical Regulations, development of guidance and capacity-development activities,
Recommends that an extraordinary session of Congress be called in June 2021 (duration five
days) to: (a) take stock and provide direction to the reform process, (b) strengthen institutional
arrangements to deliver on WMO mandate related to provision of information and services for
sustainable management of water resources, and (c) determine and maintain a highly relevant
Technical Regulations framework;
Further recommends considering the feasibility of two Congress sessions in the four-
year period, which would offer benefits of more frequent gathering of Members (of a shorter
duration) for an effective and inclusive governance and greater engagement of Members in
advancing the technical progress and policy-making of the Organization. The first session in
the four-year cycle would be dedicated to decisions on strategy, policy, budget, structure and
elections; a second (extraordinary session) would focus on normative and regulatory issues,
progress on strategic objectives and capacity development, and other selected topics, as
necessary.
Note: This recommendation concerns Article 10 (b) of the WMO Convention, which states that
“an extraordinary Congress may be convened by decision of the Executive Council”, as
well as Regulations 129 and 137 of WMO General Regulations.
Amendments to the Financial Regulations of the World Meteorological Organization
Noting Article 8(d) of the Convention of the World Meteorological Organization,
Having considered the Secretary-General’s proposals for the operating plan and budget for
the eighteenth financial period,
Noting further the amendments made by the Secretary-General to the Financial Rules of the
Organization (for more information, see EC-70/INF. 17.1(2)),
Recommends to Congress that Financial Regulations under Article 3 (Maximum expenditures

for the financial period), Article 6 (The biennial budget) and Article 7 (Appropriations) be
amended as shown in the annex to the present recommendation.
Revisions of the Financial Regulations of the World Meteorological Organization
Noting that Article 8(d) of the Convention of the World Meteorological Organization authorizes
Congress to determine regulations prescribing the procedures of the various bodies of the
Organization and, in particular, the Financial Regulations,
Considering that Financial Regulations under Article 3 (Maximum Expenditures for the
Financial Period), Article 6 (The Biennial Budget) and Article 7 (Appropriations) require revision,
Decides that the Financial Regulations as set out in the Annex to this resolution shall apply
effective 1 January 2020.
Revisions of the Financial Regulations of the World Meteorological Organization
Financial
Current text Revised text Reason for change
regulation
3.3 The estimates shall be The estimates shall be made by To reflect the
presented in a results-based appropriation parts corresponding to format of the
budget format and shall the Long-Term Goals and presented in proposed budget
be accompanied by such a results-based budget format based for the 18th
informational annexes and on the Long-Term Goals and shall be financial period.
explanatory statements as accompanied by such informational
may be requested by, or on annexes and explanatory statements
behalf of, Congress and such as may be requested by, or on
further annexes or statements behalf of, Congress and such
as the Secretary-General may further annexes or statements as
deem necessary and useful. the Secretary-General may deem
necessary and useful.
6.3 The biennial budget estimates The biennial budget estimates shall be To reflect the
shall be presented in a presented in a results-based format format of the
results-based format and based on the Long-Term Goals at the proposed budget
shall be accompanied by level of Strategic Objectives and shall for the 18th
such informational annexes be accompanied by such informational financial period.
and explanatory statements annexes and explanatory statements Performance will
as may be requested by, or as may be requested by, or on behalf be managed at a
on behalf of, the Executive of, the Executive Council and such Strategic Objective
Council and such further further annexes or statements as level.
annexes or statements as the the Secretary-General may deem
Secretary-General may deem necessary and useful.
necessary and useful.
Financial
Current text Revised text Reason for change
regulation
7.7 A transfer between A transfer between appropriation To reflect the
appropriation sections of parts sections of the results-based format of the
the results-based budget budget format may be made by proposed budget
format may be made by the the Secretary-General subject to for the 18th
Secretary-General subject to confirmation by the Executive Council. financial period.
confirmation by the Executive
Council.
Enhanced framework for the WMO Technical Regulations
Recalling Decision 93 (EC-68) – Roadmap to an enhanced framework for WMO Technical

Regulations,
Taking note of the progress in the implementation of the Roadmap to an Enhanced Framework
for WMO Technical Regulations, as provided in Annex 1 to the present recommendation,
Recommends that Congress adopt draft Resolution XX (Cg-18) – Enhanced framework for
WMO Technical Regulations, as contained in Annex 2 to the present recommendation.
Note: This recommendation replaces Decision 93 (EC-68), which is no longer in force.

Timeline for review and updating of governance publications
Primary responsible body

J Latest Next
WMO- C E Responsible
C C C C C edition/ edition or Comment
No. C C I T department
Title Ae Ag A B O update update
Cl Hy M R/
M M S S M
O P
M
TR VOLUMES
2015 edition
49, General Meteorological Standards and Recommended OBS, WDS,
x x x x x x x x x 2015/2017 2019 introducing partly
Vol I Practices CLW, RES
new structure;
2019 edition: new
structure finalized;
Climate service
section
ICAO amendment
49,
Meteorological Service for International Air Navigation x 2016 2018 cycle changing AEM
Vol II
from 3 to 2 years
49,
Hydrology x 2006 2019 Under progress CLW
Vol III
Discontinued;
49,
Quality Management 2011 replaced by a
Vol IV
chapter in Vol. I
ANNEXES
New edition
published
407, 2016 in English;
International Cloud Atlas, Volume I – Manual on the
Annex x electronic translation into OBS
Observation of Clouds and Other Meteors (in part)
1 version the other WMO
official languages
underway
APPENDIX 4. RECOMMENDATIONS 339

J Latest Next
Cl Hy M R/
M M S S M
O P
M
Manual on Codes, I.1: Annual

2011/2017 update The future form
Vol. I.1 (Part A – Alphanumeric Codes);
306, of publication of
Vol. I.2 (Part B – Binary Codes, Part C – Common Features I.2: Annual
Annex x these detailed OBS
to Binary and Alphanumeric Codes) 2015/2016 update
2 tech. specifications
Vol. I.3 (Part D – Representations derived from data I.3: Annual is needed
models) 2015/2017 update
Need to plan
386, future merging
Annex Manual on the Global Telecommunication System x 2015/2017 with Annex 7 OBS
3 (WIS); still needed
probably by Cg-19
485,
Manual on the Global Data-processing and Forecasting
Annex x 2017 WDS
System,
4
To be terminated
544,
beginning of 2020
Annex Manual on the Global Observing System, x 2015/2017 --- OBS
(merged with
5
Annex 8)
558,
Annex Manual on Marine Meteorological Services, Volume I x 2012 2018 WDS
6
1060,
Annex Manual on the WMO Information System x 2015/2017 2019 OBS
7
Manual on the Implementation of Education and Training Transformed into a
1083 x 2012 2016
Standards in Meteorology and Hydrology Guide No. 1083
1160,
Annex Manual on the WMO Integrated Global Observing System x x x x x x x 2015/2017 2019 OBS
8
GUIDES
Guide to Meteorological Instruments and Methods of Restructuring of
8 x 2014/2017 2018 OBS
Observation (CIMO guide) CIMO Guide
(CIMO-17; 2018)

J Latest Next
Cl Hy M R/
M M S S M
O P
M
100 Guide to Climatological Practices x 2011 2018 CLW
2020–
134 Guide to Agricultural Meteorological Practices (GAMP) x 2010/2012 CLW
2023
Guide to Hydrological Practices, 2008 2018
Volume I, Hydrology – From Measurement to Hydrological
168 Information; x CLW
Volume II, Management of Water Resources and 2009 2018
Application of Hydrological Practices
305 Guide on the Global Data-Processing System (GDPS) x 1993 2018 Update coming WDS
471 Guide to Marine Meteorological Services x 2001 2018 WDS
488 Guide to the Global Observing System x 2010/2017 OBS
To be discontinued
636 Guide on the Automation of Data-Processing Centres x 1998 OBS
by Cg-18
702 Guide to Wave Analysis and Forecasting x 1998 2019 WDS
To be discontinued,
Guide on Meteorological Observing and Information the content to be
731 x 2014 2019 WDS, OBS
Distribution Systems for Aviation Weather Services merged with WMO-
No. 732
Guide to Practices for Meteorological Offices Serving
732 x 2003 2018 WDS
Aviation
2020–
781 Guide to Applications of Marine Climatology x x 1994 WDS
2023
To be discontinued
788 Guide on WWW Data Management x 1993 OBS
by Cg-18
834 Guide to Public Weather Services Practices x 1999 2018 WDS
Guide to Aeronautical Meteorological Services Cost 2020– WDS
904 x 2007
Recovery 2023
To be
Guide on the Quality Management System for the
discontinued;
1001 Provision for Meteorological Service for International Air x 2011/2014
guidance provided
Navigation
in WMO-No.1100
APPENDIX 4. RECOMMENDATIONS 341

J Latest Next
Cl Hy M R/
M M S S M
O P
M
1044 Manual on Stream Gauging (OHR) x 2010 2018 CLW
1061 Guide to the WMO Information System x 2015/2017 OBS
1165 Guide to the WMO Integrated Global Observing System x x x x x x x 2017/2018 2018 OBS
2020–
1076 Guide to Storm Surge Forecasting x 2011 WDS
2023
Guide to the Implementation of Education and Training
1083 Standards in Meteorology and Hydrology, Volume I – 2015 ETR
Meteorology
Guide to the Implementation of a Quality Management
English edition Officer in
1100 System for National Meteorological and Hydrological 2017
issued Charge QMF
Services
1205 Guide on Competency 2018 ETR, WDS
Will be removed
Manual on Quality Monitoring (Operational Hydrology after new edition
680 x 1988 CLW
Report - OHR) of WMO-No. 49,
Vol. III is issued
Will be removed
after new edition
948 Manual on Sediment Management and Measurement (OHR) x 2003 CLW
of WMO-No. 49,
Vol. III is issued
Enhanced framework for WMO Technical Regulations
Recalling:
(1) Decision 93 (EC-68) – Roadmap to an enhanced framework for WMO Technical Regulations,
(2) Recommendation 28 (EC-70) – Enhanced framework for WMO Technical Regulations,
Noting with appreciation the significant progress that has been made towards the enhanced
framework of WMO Technical Regulations under guidance of the Executive Council,
Noting further the prime role of the technical commissions in reviewing and updating WMO
Technical Regulations and their relevant Manuals and Guides,
Recognizing that the WMO role in setting international standard and recommended practices,
supplemented by relevant implementation guidance, will become even more important in the
context of a multi-sector multi-stakeholder Global Weather Enterprise,
Acknowledging that the enhancement of the normative work carried out by the WMO is one
of the main rationales for the constituent bodies reform with expected positive impact on
the overall quality and relevance of the WMO Technical Regulations, including their broader
recognition and acceptance by stakeholders from private and academic sectors,
Requests technical commissions to cooperate closely to ensure continuity and consistency of

the normative work, including throughout the transition the new constituent bodies structure;
Requests the Executive Council to ensure the sustainability and continuity of the Technical
Regulations framework;
Requests the Secretary-General to establish the necessary supporting processes and

mechanisms of the Secretariat to ensure further the implementation of the framework in the
next financial period.
APPENDIX 5. LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
1. Officers of the session

David GRIMES President
Andrea Celeste SAULO (Ms) Second Vice-President and Acting
First Vice-President
2. Ex officio members
Daouda KONATE Acting president of RA I
Abdullah A. ALMANDOUS President of RA II
Guillermo NAVARRO President of RA III
Juan Carlos FALLAS SOJO President of RA IV
Andi Eka SAKYA President of RA V
Michael STAUDINGER President of RA VI
3. Elected members
Ahmed ABDELAAL Member
Gerhard ADRIAN Member
Mamadou Lamine BAH Member
Silvio CAU Member
Francisco DE ASSIS DINIZ Acting member
Phil EVANS Acting member
Ayman Salem GHULAM Member
Ismail GUNES Member
Agnes KIJAZI (Ms) Member
Ravind KUMAR Member
Jean-Marc LACAVE Member
Arlene LAING (Ms) Member
Jerry LENGOASA Acting member
Yaming LIU (Ms) Member
Albert MARTIS Member
Sani Abubakar MASHI Acting member
Jaecheol NAM Acting member
Richard PHILIPPE Member
Kanduri Jayaram RAMESH Member
Arni SNORRASON Acting member
Ken TAKAHASHI GUEVARA Acting member
Fetene TESHOME Member
Louis UCCELLINI Member
Chin Ling WONG (Ms) Member
Maxim YAKOVENKO Acting member
4. Alternates and Advisers
ABDELAAL Ahmed
Abdalla Abdelrahman BALIGH Adviser
Mohammad ELSHAHED Adviser
ADRIAN Gerhard
Axel THOMALLA Alternate
Siegfried DEMUTH Adviser
Ingeborg DETTBARN (Ms) Adviser
Jochen DIBBERN Adviser
Karolin EICHLER (Ms) Adviser
Tobias FUCHS Adviser
Sarah JONES (Ms) Adviser
Harald KOETHE Adviser
Claudia RUBART (Ms) Adviser
Dieter SCHROEDER Adviser
ALMANDOUS Abdullah A.
Omar A. AL YAZEEDI Alternate
Jaser RABADI Adviser
BAH Mamadou Lamine

Aminata KEBE (Ms) Adviser
CAU Silvio
Umberto DOSSELLI Alternate
Adriano RASPANTI Alternate
Angela Chiara CORINA (Ms) Adviser
Leone MICHAUD Adviser
Silvano PECORA Adviser
EVANS Phil
Jane WARDLE (Ms) Alternate
Paul DAVIES Adviser
Stephanie DAVIES (Ms) Adviser
Harry DIXON Adviser
Simon GILBERT Adviser
Alan JENKINS Adviser
Aileen SEMPLE (Ms) Adviser
Jeremy TANDY Adviser
Fiona TOVEY (Ms) Adviser
Bruce TRUSCOTT Adviser
Felicity WORSFOLD (Ms) Adviser
GHULAM Ayman Salem

Mohammed BABIDHAN Alternate
Maha ZEDAN (Ms) Adviser
GRIMES David
Dilhari FERNANDO (Ms) Alternate
Jenifer COLLETTE (Ms) Adviser
Jamie SMITH Adviser
GUNES Ismail
Ercan BUYUKBAS Alternate
HASHIDA Toshihiko
Yasuo SEKITA Alternate
Jitsuko HASEGAWA (Ms) Adviser
Yasutaka HOKASE Adviser
Fumihiko KANEKO Adviser
Satoshi OGAWA Adviser
Yoshihiko TAHARA Adviser
Miho TANAKA (Ms) Adviser
JOHNSON Andrew
Susan BARRELL (Ms) Alternate
Ben CHURCHILL Adviser
KIJAZI Agnes
Wilbert Timiza MURUKE Adviser
KONATE Daouda
Adviser
Adviser
LACAVE Jean-Marc
Catherine BORRETTI (Ms) Alternate
Matteo DELL'ACQUA Alternate
APPENDIX 5. LIST OF PARTICIPANTS 345
Laurence FRACHON (Ms) Alternate

Patrick BENICHOU Adviser
Jean-Sébastien CASES Adviser
Marie-Pierre MEGANCK (Ms) Adviser
LAING Arlene
Tyrone SUTHERLAND Alternate
Glendell DE SOUZA Adviser
David FARRELL Adviser
LIU Yaming
Xiaonong SHEN Alternate
Zhenlin CHEN Adviser
Yan DONG (Ms) Adviser
Jianwei HU Adviser
Xiaodan NA (Ms) Adviser
Xin QIAN (Ms) Adviser
Shien WANG Adviser
Xianghua XU Adviser
Jun YANG Adviser
Jun YU Adviser
Yang YU (Ms) Adviser
Qin ZENG Adviser
Zhongfeng ZHANG Adviser
Xing ZHAO Adviser
Heng ZHOU Adviser
LÓPEZ GONZÁLEZ Miguel Ángel

Alternate
Adviser
Adviser
NAM Jaecheol
Jaegwang WON Alternate
Jinwon KIM Adviser
Seungkyun PARK Adviser
Jieun SEO (Ms) Adviser
Doshick SHIN Adviser
RAMESH Kanduri Jayaram

R.K. GIRI Alternate
VIPIN CHANDRA Adviser
SAKYA Andi Eka

Anni Arumsari FITRIANY (Ms) Adviser
Dwikorita KARNAWATI (Ms) Adviser
Mulyono Rahadi PRABOWO Adviser
Bagus R. RIEVAN Adviser
Ardhasena SOPAHELUWAKAN Adviser
SAULO Andrea Celeste

Paula ETALA (Ms) Alternate
STAUDINGER Michael
Kornélia RADICS (Ms) Adviser
Andreas SCHAFFHAUSER Adviser
UCCELLINI Louis
Courtney DRAGGON (Ms) Alternate
Thomas GRAZIANO Alternate
Neil JACOBS Alternate
Fredrick BRANSKI Adviser
Antonio BUSALACCHI Adviser
Caroline CORVINGTON (Ms) Adviser

Mary GLACKIN (Ms) Adviser
Adriana GONZALEZ (Ms) Adviser
Richard JEFFERIES Adviser
Robert MASON Adviser
Daniel MULLER Adviser
Mark PAESE Adviser
Scott RAYDER Adviser
WONG Chin Ling

Sok Huang TAN (Ms) Adviser
YAKOVENKO Maxim
Alexander NURULLAEV Alternate
Ilia DEMIDOV Adviser
Tatiana DMITRIEVA (Ms) Adviser
Alexander GUSEV Adviser
Vladimir KATTSOV Adviser
Dmitry KIKTEV Adviser
Ivan NOVIKOV Adviser
Marina PETROVA (Ms) Adviser
Denis POPOV Adviser
Yury SPIRIN Adviser
Sergey VASILIEV Adviser
Roman VILFAND Adviser
5. Presidents of technical commissions

Manola BRUNET (Ms) President of CCl
Bertrand CALPINI President of CIMO
Oystein HOV President of CAS
Michel JEAN President of CBS
Harry LINS President of CHy
Chi Ming SHUN President of CAeM
Johan STANDER Co-president of JCOMM
Roger STONE President of CAgM
6. Regional hydrological advisers

Adviser
Adviser
Adviser
Adviser
Adviser
Adviser
7. Representatives of WMO Members
Algeria
Samir RAHEM
Benin
Chite Flavien AHOVE
Jean-Pierre AYENA
Eloi LAOUROU
Brazil
Péricles CARDIM
Nero CUNHA FERREIRA
Marcelo Jorge MEDEIROS
Ivan SARAIVA
Burkina Faso
Rufine Caroline BONKOUNGOU (Ms)
Colombia
Luis Antonio DIMATE CARDENAS
Finland
Juhani DAMSKI
Maria HURTOLA (Ms)
Iran, Islamic Republic of

Ebrahim MIRZAEI HAJI BAGHLOU
Davood PARHIZKAR
Lao People's Democratic Republic

Bounphady INSISIENMAY (Ms)
Niger
Moussa LABO
Nigeria
Ibrahim Shehu TURAKI
Qatar
Abdulla Mohammed AL MANNAI
Mohammad ALKUBAISI
South Sudan
Isaac MAKER AJIEC
Switzerland
Peter BINDER
Fabio FONTANA
Valentin GRAF
Manuel KELLER
Caroline LEHNER (Ms)
José ROMERO
Susanne ROSENKRANZ (Ms)
Togo
Latifou ISSAOU
Ukraine
Denys BORDIIAN
Yurii KLYMENKO
Taras POPELNIUK
United States of America

Mary Ann KUTNY (Ms)
8. Invited experts
Guy BRASSEUR
Armstrong Y.C. CHENG
Philip Lawrence DE COLA
Laure DESMAIZIERES (Ms)
Detlev FROMMING
Eric GEANNET
Fleming GERALD
John HIRST
Jack KAYE
Gordon MCBEAN
Tillmann MOHR
Didier MONNOT
Laxman Singh RATHORE

Toste TANHUA
Stewart TURNER
Felix VOGEL
Bryony WORTHINGTON (Ms)
9. Representatives of international organizations and other bodies
Agence pour la Sécurité de la Navigation aérienne en Afrique et à Madagascar

Mahfoud MOCTAR Observer
Association of Hydro-Meteorological Equipment Industry

Brian DAY Observer
Andy MCDONALD Observer
Ashish RAVAL Observer
ECOMET
William A. MCCAIRNS Observer
European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts

Andy BROWN Observer
European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites

Paul COUNET Observer
Alain RATIER Observer
Anne TAUBE (Ms) Observer
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Wirya KHIM (Ms) Observer
Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission

Peter M. HAUGAN Observer
Emma HESLOP (Ms) Observer
International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis

Pavel KABAT Observer
International Mobile Satellite Organization

John SHAW Observer
International Telecommunication Union

Nikolai VASSILIEV Observer
International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics

Arthur ASKEW Observer
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

Florin VLADU Observer
World Bank
Vladimir TSIRKUNOV Observer
World Bank Group/Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery

Thomas FREI Observer
Haleh KOOTVAL (Ms) Observer
Daniel KULL Observer
Christoph RAMSHORN Observer
David ROGERS Observer
Makoto SUWA Observer
Christian VOGLER Observer
Stefan VON GRÌNIGEN Observer
World Federation of Engineering Organizations

Massimiliano CAPEZZALI Observer
Yvette RAMOS (Ms) Observer
10. Visitors
Sabino Tom AKONYDIT
Farukh Akhter AMIL
Kofi ANNAN
Günter BLÖSCHI
Ehsan FAZLI
Simon Otoung KODING
Fabian LANGE
Sally MANSFIELD (Ms)
Rosemary MCCARNEY
Sophia PAL GAI (Ms)
Danilo TURK
11. Chairpersons of bodies reporting to the Executive Council

Linda MAKULENI (Ms) Chair of Audit Committee
For more information, please contact:
World Meteorological Organization

7 bis, avenue de la Paix – P.O. Box 2300 – CH 1211 Geneva 2 – Switzerland
Communication and Public Affairs Office

Tel.: +41 (0) 22 730 83 14/15 – Fax: +41 (0) 22 730 80 27
Email: [email protected]
public.wmo.int
JN 181095

Wmo 1218 PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Wmo 1218 PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Wmo 1218 PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Executive Council

Abridged Final Report of the Seventieth Session

20–29 June 2018

20–29 June 2018

© World Meteorological Organization, 2018

Chairperson, Publications Board

GENERAL SUMMARY OF THE WORK OF THE SESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  1

APPENDIX 2. RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  5

35 WMO Executive Council structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  118

APPENDIX 3. DECISIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  141

34 Designation of new regional instrument centres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  188

APPENDIX 4. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  235

APPENDIX 5. LIST OF PARTICIPANTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  343

BACKGROUND INFORMATION SUPPORTING THE WORK OF THE SESSION (PART II TO

2. The agenda is provided in Appendix 1.

3. The session adopted 39 resolutions, given in Appendix 2, 66 decisions, given in Appendix 3,

4. The list of participants is given in Appendix 5. Out of a total of 284 participants, 78 were

1. AGENDA AND ORGANIZATIONAL MATTERS

1.1 Opening of the session

1.2 Approval of the agenda

1.3 Establishment of committees

1.4 Programme of work of the session

1.5 Approval of the minutes

2.1 Report by the President of the Organization

2.2 Report by the Secretary-General

2.5 Reports by the presidents of technical commissions

3. DISASTER RISK REDUCTION, RESILIENCE AND PREVENTION

3.2 Global Multi-hazard Alert System (GMAS)

4. CLIMATE SERVICES, SUPPORT TO CLIMATE ACTION AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE

4.1 WMO contribution to UNFCCC and related UN processes

4.2 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

4.3 Integrated health and urban services

4.4 Integrated Global Greenhouse Gas Information System (IG3IS)

4.5 Climate Services

4.6 Research and Operations Linkages in Climate Prediction

5. WEATHER SERVICES, SEVICE QUALITY AND DELIVERY

5.1 Implementation of the WMO Strategy for Service Delivery

5.2 Meteorological services for aviation

5.3 Meteorological services for marine and coastal operations

5.4 Meteorological services for agriculture

5.5 Qualifications and competencies of personnel

7. OBSERVATIONS AND DATA EXCHANGE

7.1 WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS)

7.2 WMO Information System (WIS)

7.3 Emerging data issues

7.4 Implementation, evolution and design of observing systems

8. DATA PROCESSING, MODELLING AND FORECASTING

9. POLAR AND HIGH MOUNTAIN REGIONS

10.1 Future WMO research

10.2 World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) Review

11. CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT

11.1 Education and Training

11.2 Voluntary Cooperation Programme

12.1 Cooperation with the United Nations system

12.2 Public-Private Engagement

12.3 Decade on Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2020–2030)

12.4 Agreements with international organizations

12.5 Development partnerships

13. PUBLICATIONS AND DISTRIBUTION POLICY

GENERAL SUMMARY OF THE WORK OF THE SESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

APPENDIX 2. RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

35 WMO Executive Council structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

APPENDIX 3. DECISIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

34 Designation of new regional instrument centres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

APPENDIX 4. RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED BY THE SESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235

APPENDIX 5. LIST OF PARTICIPANTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 343