The United Nations(UN)’s World Meteorological Day (WMD) is annually observed across the globe on 23rd March to spread awareness about the behaviour of the Earth’s atmosphere and to emphasise the role of individuals and their actions in protecting the atmosphere of the Earth.
- Every 23 March commemorates the coming into force of the Convention establishing the World Meteorological Organization(WMO) on 23 March 1950.
World Meteorological Day 2023 on 23rd March 2023 is observed under the theme “The Future of Weather, Climate, and Water across Generations”.
- The 2023 theme reflects topical weather, climate or water-related issues.
History:
i.World Meteorological Organization(WMO) originated from the International Meteorological Organization (IMO), which was founded in 1873 to facilitate the exchange of weather information across national borders. The idea of IMO originated during the 1873 Vienna International Meteorological Congress.
ii.WMO was established on 23rd March 1950 and later became a specialized agency of the United Nations in 1951.
Note: 2023 marks the 150th anniversary of the WMO’s predecessor, the International Meteorological Organization.
Background:
i.During the 12th session of the Executive committee in 1960, WMO adopted the resolution WMO/EC-XII/Res.6 and proclaimed the 23rd March of every year as the World Meteorological Day.
ii.The first-ever World Meteorological Day was observed on 23rd March 1961.
- Since then, the WMD is annually observed with a theme/slogan in all the member countries.
Significance of WMD:
i.The WMD raises awareness about the crucial role of the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) in ensuring the safety and well-being of society
ii.The day also highlights the impacts of weather, climate and water-related issues on the lives of the people.
Meteorology:
i.Meteorology is the scientific study of atmospheric phenomena, particularly of the troposphere and lower stratosphere.
ii.This entails the systematic study of weather and its causes and provides the basis for weather forecasting.
About World Meteorological Organization(WMO):
WMO is a UN Agency dedicated to international cooperation and coordination on the state and behaviour of the Earth’s atmosphere.
Secretary-General– Prof. Petteri Taalas
Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland
