Assessing observing capabilities and enhancing data accessibility and exchange through the ClimSA Programme
Since the inception of the Intra-ACP Climate Services and Related Applications (ClimSA) Programme in 2020, WMO has shown notable progress in the efforts to bolster climate observation networks in the Programme’s focus countries: Angola, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Jamaica, Kenya and Samoa. Significant updates have been made, including the enhancement of surface station metadata (OSCAR/Surface) and the provision of technical assistance in the designation of compliant GBON stations, marking a pivotal step in improving observation capabilities. WMO has further facilitated improved international data exchange with hourly messages by addressing needs and proposing technical solutions.
Hands-on training sessions on WIGOS- and WIS-related tools were provided to focus country staff, enhancing their technical proficiency, and a significant milestone was the migration to WIS 2.0 for Burkina Faso and Kenya, achieved through collaborative efforts with WMO WIS branch. Action plans have been proposed for the remaining countries.
Case Study: Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso was considered a pilot country, and the results were beyond expectations. Hourly Data from nine Synoptic Stations and 255 Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) were successfully integrated and made available, through WIS 2.0 tools (WIS2BOX), for forecasters, climatologists, network managers and stakeholders. Using the same tools, international data accessibility and exchange was ensured for 41 Synoptic and AWS stations. Furthermore, collaboration between the National Meteorological Service (ANAM) and the National Hydrological Authority (DGRE) was also enhanced regarding mutual metadata and data sharing. More than 120 hydrological stations are now registered in OSCAR/Surface and some stations data will soon be made available internationally, using WHOS.
Quality Monitoring Results of Burkina Faso in June 2022 (left) and Data into WIS2 national node by December 2023 (right). Black dots represent problematic reporting at international level and green dots represent correct reporting at international level.
For the other focus countries, challenges persist in integrating data from diverse AWS networks into WIS2.0, prompting the exploration of centralized data collection solutions.
The review and assessment of national plans and projects related to observations and networks provided valuable insights, leading to recommendations for the effective implementation of WIGOS and GBON initiatives and to the development of strategic plans for observation in those countries. A draft plan for sustainable observation was developed with a focus on operations and maintenance of the observing network. Additionally, the capabilities related to calibration and field verification were assessed, with recommendations proposed for its modernization in alignment with WMO guidance and ISO 17025 standards. These efforts reflect the WMO commitment to improving climate observation infrastructure in the Programme’s focus countries, paving the way for enhanced climate services and resilience in their regions.
The Intra-ACP Climate Services and Related Applications (ClimSA) Programme is an initiative funded by the European Union.