WMO Embraces AI with New Joint Advisory Group

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has taken a significant step forward in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) by forming a new Joint Advisory Group. This group will play a crucial role in informing WMO activities related to the development and use of AI technologies in meteorology and hydrology. The primary focus is to integrate AI into the WMO Integrated Processing and Prediction System (WIPPS), which is the backbone of all weather forecasting.

WMO will collaborate with public, private, and academic sectors to apply AI and machine learning technologies. These efforts aim to strengthen the entire weather, climate, and water science to services value cycle. The organization recognizes the revolutionary potential of AI while emphasizing the need to align with scientific and ethical standards. National Meteorological and Hydrological Services will continue to serve as the authoritative source of public warnings.

"AI is rapidly reshaping how we work, creating a demand for new skills and increased adoption of AI Technology. We need to embrace this challenge, balancing short-term caution with long-term engagement with AI innovation and its expansion," said WMO President Abdulla Al Mandous.

In addition to the AI initiative, the WMO Executive Council (EC) has agreed to accelerate the rollout of the Early Warnings for All initiative, which is the organization's top priority. The EC has also given overwhelming backing to gender and youth action plans. Future research and operational activities, including greenhouse gas monitoring, have been endorsed. The commitment to efficiency is reflected in a 40% reduction in EC documents, allowing more time for shaping solutions and driving innovation.

The EC has established the agenda for an extraordinary World Meteorological Congress in October 2025, focusing on the Early Warnings for All initiative and AI. This congress will play a crucial role in ensuring that WMO maximizes its effectiveness and achieves its mandate in an era of resource constraints and growing demands.

In summary, the WMO's embrace of AI through the new Joint Advisory Group marks a significant milestone in the organization's commitment to leveraging advanced technologies for the betterment of global weather and climate services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the new Joint Advisory Group on AI?

The new Joint Advisory Group on AI will inform WMO activities related to the development and use of AI technologies in meteorology and hydrology, with a focus on integrating AI into the WMO Integrated Processing and Prediction System (WIPPS).

How will AI be used in weather forecasting?

AI will be used to enhance weather forecasting by improving data processing, predictive models, and real-time decision-making, ultimately leading to more accurate and timely weather warnings.

What are the ethical considerations for using AI in meteorology?

Ethical considerations include ensuring transparency, data privacy, and the alignment of AI applications with scientific and ethical standards, while maintaining the role of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services as authoritative sources.

What other initiatives is the WMO focusing on?

The WMO is also accelerating the Early Warnings for All initiative, backing gender and youth action plans, endorsing future research activities, and committing to efficiency and innovation.

How will the WMO ensure effective governance in the era of AI?

The WMO will consider the location and resourcing of regional offices and reduce the number of EC documents by 40% to ensure more time is spent on shaping solutions and driving innovation.