World Meteorological Day

World Meteorological Day History

World Meteorological Day marks the founding of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) - an international body aimed at fostering worldwide cooperation in atmospheric science, climatology, hydrology, and geophysical research. This annual observance helps to underline the essential contribution that National Meteorological and Hydrological Services make to the safety and wellbeing of society. It drives awareness of the vital role of the weather, climate, and water in our daily lives, and encourages understanding of and preparation for extreme weather events.

World Meteorological Day holds specific relevance to Australia given the country's unique climatic identity and diversity. It was in 1876, that meteorology in Australia officially commenced with the establishment of the colonial meteorological service. The national agency, Bureau of Meteorology, helps provide Australians with critical weather forecasts and warnings, public safety services, and environmental observations. Over the years, Australians have endured extreme weather conditions - from droughts and severe heatwaves to destructive bushfires and floods. Hence, effective meteorological practices and communication have crucial bearing on life, property, and the overall economic stability of Australia.

Australia observes World Meteorological Day with a variety of programs and initiatives aimed at public education and engagement. The Bureau of Meteorology and other organisations and institutions host events, conduct workshops, and utilise various media to promote awareness and comprehension of weather, water, and climate science. Lectures, presentations, and interactive displays focusing on the annual theme are common. World Meteorological Day is celebrated on the 23rd of March each year, promoting deeper understanding of meteorology, underlining its social value and supporting continued Australian resilience in the face of changing weather conditions.

Facts about World Meteorological Day

• The theme for World Meteorological Day in 2025 was Closing the early warning gap together, in 2024 it was At the frontline of climate action, and in 2023 was The Future of Weather, Climate and Water across Generations.
• According to the World Meteorological Organization, the global mean temperature in 2023 increased by 1.45 C compared to 1850-1900 average, it was the warmest year on record, and global sea level increased 4.3 in since 1993.
• According to UNICEF, about 700 million people around the world could be displaced due to intense water scarcity by 2030.
• With Australia’s diverse climate and geography, the data and services provided by the WMO are crucial for managing the country's weather-based challenges, from floods and tropical cyclones, to droughts and bushfires.
• Australia is known to experience some of the world's most extreme weather conditions. This has highlighted the importance of meteorological awareness and the observance of World Meteorological Day.

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Meteorological Day

Top things to do in Australia for World Meteorological Day

• Explore the online World Meteorological Organization Library. View reports and publications about the climate and what can be done to save it.
• Visit the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex: This complex works alongside NASA and provides a fascinating look into space communication and weather.
• Read a book to learn more about Meteorology in Australia:
  The Atmosphere and Climate of Australia - by Roger G. Barry and Andrew M. Carleton.
  Essentials of Meteorology: An Invitation to the Atmosphere - by C. Donald Ahrens