The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has launched the operational phase of its WMO Information System 2.0 (WIS 2.0) that will help change the way nations share Earth system data.
The system, which became operational on January 1, is the framework for WMO data sharing in the 21st century and will make international, regional and national data sharing simple, effective and inexpensive, according to the WMO.
By enabling real-time data sharing, WIS 2.0 will enhance both the accuracy of weather forecasts and global data sharing cooperation, as well as support vital early warning systems, aid climate research, deliver significant economic and safety benefits and enable Earth system monitoring. Lowering the barrier to adoption underpins the WIS 2.0 technical framework, which embraces open standards and web technologies to facilitate sharing of increasing variety and volume of real-time data.
“With WIS 2.0, we are stepping into a future where predicting and preparing for weather-related events, tracking changes in the environment, and contributing to climate research will be more efficient and effective than ever before,” confirmed Enrico Fucile, chief of WMO Information System Section.
“This success story shows how international cooperation can make a real difference in addressing global challenges. Working together, we’re supporting key international initiatives like Early Warnings for All and ensuring that advanced data sharing capabilities are accessible to all nations, including developing countries, least developed countries and small island developing states,” he added.
A key factor in this widespread adoption has been WIS 2.0 in a box, an open-source software solution, combined with comprehensive training programs. This approach has made the technology more accessible, enabling countries of all levels of development to implement and benefit from WIS 2.0.
According to the WMO, WIS 2.0 builds on the legacy of the Global Telecommunication System established in 1971, creating a more inclusive and efficient framework for sharing atmospheric, oceanic, hydrological and cryospheric data.
More than 60 nations have participated in WIS 2.0, with the WMO recognizing in particular the 11 countries providing the global infrastructure that makes it all possible: Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Morocco, the Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, the UK and the USA.