WMO Newsletter: MeteoWorld

Climate prediction and information for decision-making

31 August–4 September 2009
Geneva International Conference Centre, Switzerland

The challenges for the provision of weather, climate and water services cross all national boundaries, making international cooperation essential to achieve the objectives of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Bali Action Plan and Millennium Development Goals. WCC-3 will initiate a framework for the effective delivery of high-quality climate information and prediction services, aimed at meeting the needs of decision-makers and enhancing the ability of governments, societies, institutions and the public to access and use climate information products and services.

Vision

A global framework for climate services that links science-based climate predictions and information with the management of climate-related risks and opportunities and supports adaptation to climate variability and change.

The challenge

It is not possible to stop the occurrence of extreme climate-related events. The negative impacts on communities, can, however, be mitigated through the efficient delivery and use of climate information and products.

To make better decisions about their climate-related activities and livelihoods, people need better access to climate prediction and information to support the management of risks and opportunities as relates to the availability of clean water, food security and safety.To make better decisions about their climate-related activities and livelihoods, people need better access to climate prediction and information to support the management of risks and opportunities as relates to the availability of clean water, food security and safety.

With better seasonal forecasts, farmers can plan optimal planting dates, the best mix of crops to grow and which disease- and pest-resilient varieties to choose. This can help to improve food security, which can then reduce poverty. Climate scientists and farmers must develop close partnerships to effectively use seasonal forecasts and to develop coping strategies in the event of natural disasters.

Weather and climate conditions have direct and indirect impacts on health. They can increase the risk of epidemics of airborne and waterborne diseases, malnutrition, heatstroke and respiratory problems. Climate prediction and information help in the monitoring and management of disease outbreaks.

Water availability can provide or deny us life-supporting needs. It can lead to enhanced food production but also to extreme water stress, high levels of poverty and even loss of life. Better seasonal predictions of water availability can help managers in planning and operating their water resource management systems more efficiently.

Climate-related disasters such as flooding or drought have a high impact on societies and vital socio-economic activities. Early warning systems can prevent much loss of life and livelihood by alerting people to specific threats and enhancing the level of preparedness.

Renewable and clean energy is essential for the sustainable growth of economies. Solar, wind and wave energy are directly linked to climate conditions, which also dictate energy demands.Adequate climate information is essential in the development and management of renewable energy sources.

Global transport, accommodation, the supply chain and services are all highly vulnerable to severe weather conditions and climate extremes. WCC-3 will help to develop climate services that will greatly enhance the management of risks and benefits for the tourism and transport sectors, at global, regional and national levels.

Word Climate Conference-3 (WCC-3)