Seychelles Meteorological Authority (SMA) and GeoSphere Austria are preparing to formalize closer cooperation following a strategic visit to Vienna focused on forecasting, early warning and climate services.
SMA CEO Vincent Amelie visited GeoSphere Austria on February 10-11, 2026, accompanied by a World Meteorological Organization technical expert. The visit was supported by the CREWS Southwest Indian Ocean program and the CREWS Accelerated Support Window for Seychelles.
Discussions centered on strengthening multihazard early warning systems, improving impact-based forecasting and expanding climate service delivery. One focus was Austria’s Multi-Hazard Impact-Based Advice Service (AMAS), an operational framework that translates meteorological hazards into risk-based guidance for decision-makers.
The meeting also addressed climate service development in Seychelles following the creation of the country’s National Framework for Climate Services. According to SMA, improving the operational use of tailored climate information is a priority, including co-producing services with end users, strengthening sector-specific advisories and integrating climate data into planning and decision-making.
Delegates reviewed monitoring and forecasting tools and discussed opportunities for knowledge exchange, training and technical cooperation. Areas identified for collaboration include improving data use and enhancing operational forecasting capabilities.
The organizations agreed on priority areas for joint work and began preparations for a memorandum of understanding to formalize the partnership. SMA said the collaboration is intended to support its strategic goals and strengthen the delivery of multihazard warnings and climate services.
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