The WWRP Scientific Steering Committee Meets in Buenos Aires to Shape the Programme’s Future

The meeting represented a pivotal moment for the programme as it transitions from the current 2024-2027 Implementation Plan to a new framework for 2028-2031. The agenda reflected the importance attached to shaping WWRP's future direction and ensuring that its research priorities remain aligned with the evolving needs of WMO Members, the WMO Strategic Plan for 2028-2031, and global efforts to strengthen weather, climate, water and disaster resilience. A central objective of the meeting was the provisional approval of the WWRP Implementation Plan for 2028-2031.  

Throughout the week, SSC members reviewed progress made by the Projects, Working Groups and Expert Team under the current plan, assessed lessons learned, and identified gaps, emerging priorities and opportunities for greater impact. Dedicated discussions on partnerships, research activities, endorsed and partner projects, artificial intelligence, early-career engagement and regional initiatives provided critical input into the new plan. These discussions were intended to ensure that WWRP remains scientifically innovative while delivering practical benefits for forecasting, early warning systems and societal resilience. 

The SSC discussed the strategic priorities that should guide WWRP over the next four years, identified new initiatives and areas requiring increased investment, defined the future role and evolution of existing projects, strengthened links with other WMO and international programmes, and established mechanisms for monitoring progress and impact. Particular attention was given to the role that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, collaboration across disciplines, and support for developing countries could play. The culmination of the meeting will be the finalization and formal approval of the WWRP Implementation Plan for 2028-2031 by the Research Board in 2026 and then the WMO Executive Council in March 2027.   

The detailed agenda with presentations can be found here: 19th Session on the World Weather Research Programme Scientific Steering Committee