Advancing Weather Verification for Improved Forecast Accuracy
Overview of the 9th International Verification Methods Workshop and Verification Tutorial held in May.
The 9th International Verification Methods Workshop from 20 to 22 May and Verification Tutorial from 5 to 18 May, both hosted by the South African Weather Service in Cape Town, were the first such events to be held in Africa. The Workshop and Tutorial were organized by the WMO World Weather Research Programme’s (WWRP) Joint Working Group on Forecast Verification Research and the WMO Working Group on Numerical Experimentation to showcase WMO’s dedication to global outreach and scientific exchange.
The Tutorial gathered 25 early-career scientists, postgraduate students and senior scientists from diverse regions. Twelve were representatives from National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) in Cameroon, Kenya, Senegal, South Africa and United Republic of Tanzania. Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) projects sponsored 10 participants. The tutorial taught essential verification techniques through lectures and hands-on projects that demonstrated how to tackle real-world weather data problems. The trainees developed and presented innovative verification tools and enhanced their practical skills.
The Workshop that followed the Tutorial featured keynote talks and presentations. Experts shared the latest in verification research, addressing topics such as operational verification, ensemble forecasting, and high-impact weather event evaluation. The Workshop emphasized the critical role of verification science in supporting the Early Warnings for All initiative.
The two events fostered partnerships and enhanced the capabilities of the next generation of verification experts. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, the Workshop and Tutorial laid a strong foundation for future advancements in weather verification research. The in-person format allowed for active interaction and a richer learning experience, reinforcing the value of such gatheringsin advancing global weather research and protecting communities worldwide.
For more information, including the Tutorial and Workshop programs, abstract booklet, lectures and presentations, visit www.9thverificationworkshop.weathersa.co.za.