text: REGIONAL ASSOCIATION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC) WORKING GROUP ON PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WWW IN REGION V HONOLULU, HAWAII, USA 7-10 DECEMBER 2009 REPORT (1st FEBRUARY 2010) WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION -1- GENERAL SUMMARY OF THE WORK OF THE SESSION 1. ORGANIZATION OF THE SESSION 1.1 OPENING OF THE SESSION (AGENDA ITEM 1.1) 1.1.1. At the kind invitation of the U.S.A NOAA NWS, the fifth session of the Working Group on Planning and Implementation of the World Weather Watch (WWW) in Region V (RA V WG/PIW) was held in Honolulu, in the conference room of the Pacific Guardian Center from 7 to 10 December 2009. Mr T. Hart, Chairperson of RA V WG/PIW welcomed participants and expressed his appreciation for their contribution prior to the meeting and looked forward to their contributions to what is expected to be the last meeting of the Working Group on Planning and Implementation of WWW in RA V. He also thanked the WMO Secretariat and the U.S.A NOAA NWS for organizing the session. 1.1.2. Dr T. Toya, Regional Director for Asia and the South-West Pacific, on behalf of Mr M. Jarraud, Secretary-General, welcomed participants and expressed his appreciation and gratitude to Dr J. Hayes, Permanent Representative of U.S.A with WMO, for hosting the session in Honolulu and for the warm hospitality and excellent arrangements made for the meeting. He extended his gratitude to USA for its substantial contribution to the implementation of the World Weather Watch in the Region, and its active role in the capacity development and regional collaboration for Members of RA V. He also expressed his appreciation to Mr T. Hart, Chairperson of the Working Group, Mr K. Alder, Coordinator of the Subgroup on Regional Aspects of Information Systems and Services (RA V Subgroup/ISS), and rapporteurs for their considerable contributions to the work of the Working Group, contributing to the implementation of WWW in the Region. With reference to progress on the development of the RA V Strategic Plan and its Action Plan and a new approach for the organization of the fifteenth session of Regional Association V, he expressed his confidence that the outcomes of this session would be of significant input to the further development of the Strategic Action Plan for the Enhancement of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services in Region, as well as the development of a new WMO Strategic Plan 2012-2015; the proposal for future working mechanism of the Association; and more efficient and cost- effective organization of the upcoming fifteenth session of RA V (XV-RA V). 1.1.3. Mr E. Young, Deputy Director of the Pacific Regional Headquarter of U.S.A NOAA NWS also welcomed the participants to Honolulu, on behalf of Dr. Jack Hayes, Permanent Representative from the US to WMO. In his welcoming remarks, He expressed hope that this meeting will build on the work covered last week by the Sub Group on Regional Aspects of Information Systems and Services (ISS) Implementation Coordination meeting on WIS- GTS in the Pacific (RA V). He noted with less than five months before the 15th Session of the WMO Regional Association V meeting in Bali, Indonesia, this meeting provided an opportunity to review the progress that the Region has achieved in implementing the programs of the World Weather Watch, as well as discuss plans and make recommendations to be forwarded for consideration in Bali. He also noted the timeliness of the meeting, where opportunities for increased focus on the status and progress of national meteorological and hydrological services are being reviewed, such as the effort currently underway by SPREP, mandated by the Pacific Island Forum, and the initiation of a Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) capacity building project by the Government of Finland. He spoke of an increased interest within the US for addressing and partnering on capacity building activities within the Pacific Islands, particularly after the September 29, 2009 Samoa Islands earthquake and tsunami event, that again has highlighted local multi-hazard threats in a data sparse areas of our Region, and limited capabilities to issue warning messages that can be delivered to our vulnerable coastal populations. 1.1.4 Mr. Young made a brief mention of Pacific Island participation and impact at an IEEE- Globecomm GEOSS XXX-II Workshop on Mitigation and Management of Disasters through -2- Communications, that was held in Honolulu on Monday, November 30th, and it gave workshop participants a better understanding of the need to engage Pacific Island countries. 1.1.5 There were 21 participants attending the session and a list of participants is presented in Annex I 1.1.6 At the beginning of the meeting representatives from Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga and Cook Islands gave presentations on the impact of the 29 September 2009 tsunami. NMHSs in these countries had been heavily involved in providing warnings and in the response and recovery phase, and some in follow-up reviews to improve the warning systems in their countries. The graphic images brought home the impact of natural disasters in the region and the vital role of the NMHSs and the WWW which supports their operations. All participants at the meeting expressed their sympathy to the countries affected and encouraged further development of the tsunami warning in the Region to reduce the impacts in future events. 1.2 ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA (AGENDA ITEM 1.2) 1.2.1. The session adopted the agenda as presented in Annex II 1.3 WORKING ARRANGEMENTS (AGENDA ITEM 1.3) 1.3.1. The session was conducted in English. The documentation were made available in English only. The participants at the session agreed on the working hours. 2. STATUS OF WWW IMPLEMENTATION AND OPEARTION 2.0 REPORT OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE WORKING GROUP (AGENDA ITEM 2.0) 2.0.1 Mr T. Hart, Chairperson of the Working Group presented a summary of the work of the Working Group since its re-establishment at the fourteenth session of RA V (XIV-RA V) in 2006. All those nominated have remained as members of the Working Group since 2006 although Mr Y. Gregoris, Regional Rapporteur on Aeronautical Meteorological Data Relay (AMDAR), has recently moved out of Region V from French Polynesia to La Reunion. 2.0.2 Members of the Working Group have participated, either through Expert Teams established under the Commission on Basic System (CBS) Open Programme Area Groups (OPAG) or directly to the Working Group or offering technical expertise. The Implementation/Coordination Teams (ICT) generally include regional rapporteurs on the specific programme areas in addition to the Chairpersons of the Expert Teams (ET) under each OPAG. This participation is an opportunity to represent the needs of RA V to the work of the CBS and also of gaining knowledge and experience that could be used within the Region. 2.0.3 Mr Hart reminded members of the Working Group of the specific tasks assigned to them by XIV-RA V. Generally, there had been good progress across all aspects of WWW. Some specific tasks had been completed and others showed significant progress, even though action plans had not been prepared as requested by XIV-RA V. 2.0.4 There has been significant activity through leveraging of other organizational arrangements and the actions of individual NMHS (National Meteorological and Hydrological Service). One example is developing strong cooperation with the Tropical Cyclone Committee for the South Pacific and South-East Indian Ocean (RA V TCC). The twelfth session of TCC (XII-RA V TCC) in 2008) has provided a key forum to initiate the Severe Weather and Disaster Risk Reduction Demonstration Project (SWFDDP). 2.0.5 Links with other key stakeholders such as the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) community and regional organizations such as SOPAC and the Secretariat of the Pacific -3- Environment Programme (SPREP) have been strengthened through coordination on tsunami warnings and planning for the SWFDDP. 2.0.6 From the overall perspective of the WWW, there have also been projects of individual NMHS and regional groupings that have brought developments to WWW. The continued developments in the availability of satellite data are examples, as are individual projects such as the Radio and Internet for the Communication of Hydro-Meteorological Information for Rural Development (RANET), the Low Resolution Information Transmission (LRIT) upgrade, greater availability of Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) products and the support for SWFDDP. The Finnish-Pacific Project for Increased Capacity for SPREP and NMS Staff to Meet the Growing Demand of Meteorological and Climatological Information for Society (FFPICS) would benefit WWW through enhancing strategic planning and the extension of the Quality Management System Framework (QMF). WWW activities would also benefit from the outcome of the Urgent Review of Meteorological Services initiated from the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders 2008 Communiqué and being organized through SPREP. 2.0.7 However, the lack of resources to hold sessions has been a barrier to the effectiveness of the Working Group to make progress on the work plan. The RA V Subgroup/ISS has only met for the first time very close to the end of the four-year inter- sessional period, just prior to the only meeting of the full Working Group since 2005. 2.0.8 The RA V Management Group (RA V/MG) has considered options for restructuring Working Groups in Region V to achieve greater effectiveness and more alignment with the Strategic Thrusts and Expected Results of the WMO Strategic Plan. Given the difficulties in resources to allow the Working Group to be an effective mechanism for effective action, such a review and re-structure is timely and appropriate. It is important that any re-structure should ensure a continued coordination group for GTS/ISS as strong regional cooperation and coordination are essential for developing an effective network. Any restructure should also provide for the means to improve the collection and dissemination of observations, the use of meteorological information in NMHSs,the translation of that information into service delivery, and reduction of the impact of natural disasters. 2.1 WMO INTEGRATED GLOBAL OBSERVING SYSTEM (WIGOS) (AGENDA ITEM 2.1) 2.1.1 The session noted the development of the WIGOS concept and benefits of its implementation in collaboration with WMO"s partner organizations and their observing systems. In particular it noted that Members and partner organizations would benefit from WIGOS through: (i) Improved observing capability in a more cost effective manner to enable improved service delivery; (ii) Improved quality and consistency of observations for better products and services; (iii) Improved access to observations, whether real-time, or not; (iv) Optimization of observing network design and flexibility to incorporate new observing systems; (v) Improved coordination, standardization and evaluation of national observing networks; and (vi) Improved data assimilation techniques to allow observations to be fully exploited in NWP in an integrated manner. 2.1.2 The session recalled that at the request of the fifteenth World Meteorological Congress (Cg-XV) in 2007 that the concept of WIGOS is presently being explored through a -4- series of pilot projects undertaken by the Technical Commissions (TCs) and a series of regional demonstration projects undertaken by Members. It was pleased to note the benefits from these projects such as the continued development of the AMDAR project, and if successful, would enable greater participation by regional airlines operating in the Pacific, and allow them to be able to provide wind and temperature profiles to supplement existing surface and space based profiles in the Region. It also expressed appreciation to Australia for contributing and undertaking a RA V demonstration project, exploring the WIGOS concept of a composite observing system. However, the session expressed concern that lessons learned from the RA V demonstration project might not be generalized to the entire Region. It recommended that if WIGOS moves into the implementation stage following the upcoming sixteenth World Meteorological Congress (Cg-XVI) in 2011, a priority would be a broader regional demonstration project taking into account the diversity of Region V. 2.1.3 Furthermore, the session noted the dependence of WIGOS on the WMO Information System (WIS). Given the large variation of telecommunications capability in the Region, it recommended that RA V pay special attention to the coordination of WIGOS and WIS to ensure that the Region is not lagging behind as a result of the telecommunication technology gaps. The session also recommended that a project was needed in RA V to demonstrate WIS capability in a small developing NMHS This would integrate the roll out of WIS new functionality in the Region with benefits to advance WIGOS, and allow Members the ability to prioritise national efforts and services that protect life and the economic stability of the region. The project could also be of benefit to the RA V Severe Weather Forecasting and Disaster Risk Reduction Demonstration Project (SWFDDP). 2.2 WMO INFORMATION SYSTEM (WIS) INCLUDING GTS AND DATA MANAGEMENT (AGENDA ITEM 2.2) 2.2.1 The session recalled Cg-XV request that WIS implementation should build upon existing WMO Global Telecommunication System (GTS) in a smooth and evolutionary process. The WIS Implementation Plan would have two parts, developed in parallel: (i) Part A: The continued consolidation and further improvements of the GTS for time-critical and operation-critical data, including its extension to meet operational requirements of WMO Programmes in addition to the World Weather Watch (including improved management of services); and (ii) Part B: An extension of the information services through flexible Data Discovery, Access and Retrieval (DAR) services to authorize users, as well as flexible timely delivery services; it would be implemented essentially through the Internet. 2.2.2 The session noted that CBS XIV has approved the use of the IMTN as the core network of WIS connecting all GISCs and that the activity in RA V move to Multi Protocol Layered Switching (MPLS) has significantly forwarded this component of WIS. The session also reviewed the requirements for new functionality of WIS, in particular the need to create and manage DAR Metadata (ISO-19115 and ISO-19139) and implementing the required search capabilities (ISO-23950). It expressed concern at the lack of guidelines on how to create and manage Metadata and the lack of a Guidelines or Manual on WIS. However, it noted with appreciation the offer of the Secretariat to provide expertise from the WIS Project Office to assist Members to implement new functionality of WIS (see WIS offer of assistance at http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/WIS/documents/JumpStartFlyer.doc). It noted that it would be beneficial if Members could see some functioning DAR examples in order to better understand what is required and how RA V centres, especially Small Island Developing States (SIDS), would benefit from implementing this capability. The session recommended that a pilot installation would be highly desirable at a few RA V centres, in particular those representing the range of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) capabilities across the region including a SIDS National Centre (NC) and a Data Collection or Production Centre (DCPC). It would also be useful if the demonstration included a non-WMO centre to -5- show how they could link to WIS. To this end, the meeting noted that the first Global Information System Centres (GISCs) are scheduled to be pre-operational by mid 2010 and it is planned to demonstrate their functionality to the Executive Council (EC) in 2010. 2.2.3 The session noted that one GISC (Melbourne WMC) has been nominated in Region V and several DCPCs including Wellington-RTH and RSMC, Fiji RSMC, Hawaii-RSMC, and four DCPCs in Australia. It also noted that the designation process approved by Cg- XV in 2007 requires nominated centres to demonstrate their capabilities to function as WIS centres to the ICG-WIS and the Commission on Basic Systems (CBS) and that the Secretariat was due to send a circular letter to PRs advising them of the details of the demonstration process. The session recommended RA V to play a role in supporting these centres in being designated by Cg-XVI in 2011; and it is expected that several GISCs and over 100 DCPCs are planning to go operational following Cg- XVI. It noted that the rollout of WIS would be completed by Cg-XVII. 2.2.4 As WIS has now moved from concept to implementation the session recommended that RA V centres should now be implementing WIS functionality. It also recommended that NMHSs should monitor centre designation process and aim to have their own centres designated, in 2011 or 2012. In addition to helping NMHSs raise their profile within their own country and government, it noted that centres should act promptly as WIS is a core enabler of WIGOS as well as new initiatives such as Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) both important to Region V. 3. REGIONAL ASPECTS OF THE WWW COMPONENTS (GOS, GTS, DM AND GDPF) PWS AND RELATED SUPPORT FUNCTIONS OBSERVING SYSTEMS: OPAG-IOS – INCLUDING A REPORT ON THE EVOLUTION OF GOS (AGENDA ITEM 3.1) 3.1.1 The session was informed on the status of the surface-based subsystem of the Global Observing System (GOS). The current approved Regional Basic Synoptic Network (RBSN) list (October 2009) as adjusted by the WMO Secretariat in accordance with the station change information provided by Members of RA V is comprised of 497 stations (389 surface plus 108 upper-air) in total. The status of implementation of surface and upper-air stations in the RBSN is presented in Tables I and II, respectively. Overall 95 % of surface stations performed one or more observations per day. TABLE I Status of implementation of RBSN surface stations in RA V as of October 2009 compared to those in 2004 - 2006. The stations report every three hours, every six hours and, less frequently, as committed to by Members in Weather Reporting (WMO- NO. 9, Volume A) -6- 1 2 3 4 Total Number of Number of Number of Number of number stations stations stations stations not of making making making at yet stations observations observations least one or established in the at both the at only the more or otherwise RBSN main and the main standard observations non- (1+2+3+4) Year intermediate or in addition per day operational standard at some (incomplete (silent) hours per day intermediate programme) (complete hours per day programme) (not the complete programme) Region V 2004 295 75% 40 10% 14 4% 46 12% 395 2006 301 77% 37 10% 35 9% 16 4% 389 2009 296 76% 37 10% 35 9% 21 5% 389 Global 3201 74% 407 9% 616 14% 115 3% 4339 2009 Note: Main standard hours – 0000, 0600, 1200, 1800 UTC; Intermediate hours – 0300, 0900, 1500, 2100 UTC 3.1.2 There are a number of upper-air stations are making 2 soundings per day has continued the negative trend since 2004, counter balanced by an increase of AMDAR measurements. From a high of 60% in 2004 the number of fully operational radiosonde stations (making two observations per day) as a percentage of the RBSN decreased to 39% in 2006 and 36% in 2009. Further details of the RBSN performance are presented under "Availability of SYNOP, TEMP and CLIMAT reports at Meteorological Telecommunication Network (MTN) centres" (agenda item 2.2). TABLE II Status of Implementation of RBSN upper-air stations in RA V as of October 2009 compared to those in 2004 – 2006. The stations make observations at 2 main standard hours or less frequently, as committed by Members in Weather Reporting (WMO-No. 9) Volume A (R = Radiosonde, W = Radiowind) 1 2 3 Total Number of stations Number of stations Number of number of making observations making at least one stations not yet stations in Year at the two main observation at the established or the RBSN standard hours per main standard or at otherwise non- (1+2+3) day intermediate hours operational per day (silent) Region V W R W R W R W R 2004 76 (70%) 46 (60%) 30 (28%) 27 (35%) 3 (3%) 4 (5%) 109 77 2006 51 (45%) 36 (39%) 54 (47%) 53 (57%) 9 (8%) 4 (4%) 114 93 2009 47 (44%) 33 (36%) 58 (54%) 57 (61%) 3 (2%) 3 (3%) 108 93 Global 541 (65%) 533 (67%) 211 (25%) 204 (26%) 88 (10%) 57 (7%) 840 794 2009 -7- Note 1: All radiosonde (R) stations are also included in the total number of radiowind (W) stations – they are not independent. The difference provides the number of upper-air stations that make only wind observations, a total of 15 stations in RA V (2009). Note 2: Main standard hours – 0000, 1200 UTC; Intermediate hours – 0600, 1800 UTC 3.1.3 The current approved Regional Basic Climate Network (RBCN) list (October 2009) contains 328 stations (249 CLIMAT and 79 CLIMAT TEMP). The status of implementation of RBCN climatological stations is presented in Table III. The number of stations reporting CLIMAT has remained at over 80% during the period 2006 – 2009 compared to 65% (in 2004) prior to the approval of a revised RBCN in 2005. Similarly, the number of stations reporting CLIMAT TEMP has remained above 80% during the same period after a positive increase from a low of 69% in 2004. Further details of the RBCN performance monitoring are presented under agenda item 2.2. TABLE III The status of Implementation of RBCN climatological stations in RA V as of October 2009 compared to those in 2004 – 2006, as committed by Members in Weather Reporting (WMO-No. 9) Volume A CLIMAT CLIMAT TEMP Number of Number of Total Number of Number of Total stations / stations not number stations / stations not number reports reporting / of reports reporting / of Year implemente operational station implemente operational station d s in the d s in the RBCN RBCN Region V 2004 125 65% 67 35% 192 53 69% 24 31% 77 2006 214 85% 37 15% 251 63 80% 16 20% 79 2009 202 81% 47 19% 249 65 82% 14 18% 79 Global 2375 82% 529 18% 2904 445 84% 86 16% 531 2008 3.1.4 The efforts to enhance the updating of Weather Reporting Publication (WMO-No. 9, Volume A) and maintaining the lists of Regional Basic Synoptic and Climatological Networks (RBSN and RBCN) has continued to show significant improvement with the establishment of National Focal Points for WMO on operational matters related to Volume A, RBSN and for the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) and related climatological data monitoring issues. WMO Secretariat and appropriate CBS Lead centres are now in direct contact with these experts to facilitate the collection of detailed information on national specifications and to take actions needed to improve network performance. 3.1.5 The session recommended that updated RBSN and RBCN lists be prepared for consideration at the upcoming XV-RA V in 2010. To this end, WMO Secretariat advised that it would send a letter to Members seeking their nominations of stations to be included in the list and would consolidate responses into lists to be presented to XV-RA V in 2010. 3.1.6 The session recommended that RA V urge Members to ensure that they have nominated current Focal Points for WMO on operational matters related to Volume A, RBSN and for GCOS and related climatological data monitoring issues to facilitate improved operation of the GOS and GCOS. -8- AMDAR 3.1.7 The global AMDAR Programme has continued to expand into new areas and more NMHSs are looking to explore the possibility of developing their own AMDAR programmes. The session noted the recommendation of the AMDAR Panel that NMHSs should consider additional coverage of AMDAR data outside their national territory to be provided to the GTS as a contribution to WWW Programme. The E-AMDAR Programme, as part of its contribution to the WWW programme, is providing AMDAR data from European airlines flying in Region V area. The session also noted that the Australian AMDAR Programme has implemented an AMDAR Data Optimization System for data uplink control of appropriately equipped aircraft. This Optimization System (OS) would eliminate redundant AMDAR vertical profiles, which could make up around 50% of data volume. 3.1.8 It was also noted that a WIGOS Pilot Project (PP) for AMDAR has been initiated with participation from a number of AMDAR Panel Members. The session urged the AMDAR Technical Coordinator to advise Members of any aircraft flying in their territories who are equipped with AMDAR equipment, and confirm which airlines might be interested in participating in AMDAR, and advise where local follow-up might be helpful. Further capacity building in Pacific Region could assist the Region in filling data gaps where in situ observation sites are not possible. Marine Observations 3.1.9 The session noted that dramatic progress has been made in the implementation of the ocean observing networks in the last decade. Implementation of marine observing network in Region V has continued to expand. The ocean in situ observing system is now 61% implemented, with the JCOMM plan to full implementation, in principle by 2012. All data are being made freely available to all Members in real-time. 3.1.10 The global surface buoy network, as coordinated by the Data Buoy Cooperation Panel (DBCP), has being sustained (1546 units in September 2009). Efforts are being made to increase the number of surface drifters reporting sea level pressure (629 units in September 2009). The Argo profiling float programme reached completion in November 2007 (3261 units in September 2009). 3.1.11 Progress has continued towards the development of the Research Moored Array for African-Asian-Australian Monsoon Analysis and Prediction (RAMA) as part of the Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS), a multi-national, multi-platform network designed to support climate forecasting and research. In September 2009, the RAMA array was 52% completed (target 46 sites). Moorings are now being designed to prevent vandalism, which remains problematic for the maintenance of the arrays. 3.1.12 The total number of Voluntary Observing Ships (VOS) recruited by 3 Members of the RA V was 151 in September 2008 and 145 in September 2009. The number of Automatic Weather Stations (AWSs) installed onboard ships and providing hourly observations has increased leading to a continued increase in the total number of SHIP reports available on the GTS despite the reduced number of recruited vessels. 3.1.13 The Ship of Opportunity Programme (SOP) has also provided for valuable upper ocean thermal data through 26 high resolution and 25 frequently repeated XBT lines now fully or partially occupied (target 45 lines, including 6 operated in both modes). Approximately 22,000 XBTs are deployed every year, of which 20,000 are transmitted in real-time and ingested into operational databases. 3.1.14 The tide gauge network is 68% complete (198 units reporting in near-real time (NRT) via the GTS and/or in fast delivery (FD) mode - quality controlled data provided by data originator within 4-6 weeks of collection). -9- 3.1.15 The session noted the new strategy for the Joint Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM) 2010-2013 and welcomed the intention to give special attention to education and training, and technology transfer initiatives on marine meteorological and oceanographic data, products and services th at respond to the needs of, and build capacity in, the developing countries with particular emphasis on the Least Developed Countries (LDC) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The WWW group acknowledged that RAV must put more focus on enhancing mari ne observations, particularly in areas where data is sparse for better understanding of severe weather and climate. Emphasis must be on well integrated multi-hazard observing systems with robust reliable communications capabilities. Evolution of the GOS 3.1.16 CBS-XIV reviewed the "Vision for the GOS in 2025" and had endorsed the Implementation Plan for the Evolution of Space and Surface-Based Sub-Systems of the Global Observing System (EGOS-IP). The Implementation Plan aims to improve the GOS so that the understanding and prediction of the atmosphere and ocean can lead to better services. To the extent that NMHS can contribute to the improvement of the GOS their own communities will benefit from improved services. 3.1.17 CBS had invited Regional Rapporteurs/Coordinators on Regional Aspects of the GOS to develop an Implementation Plan for the Evolution of the GOS (EGOS-IP) in their Regions for consideration and endorsement by Members of the Region. 3.1.18 The Chairperson of the RA V WG-PIW and the Rapporteur on Regional Aspects of the GOS developed a draft plan based on the RA I Plan and circulated it within RA V for comment. The draft plan has been revised based on comments received and from amendments to the Implementation Plan prepared by CBS. The draft plan was presented for consideration by the RV WG/PIW. 3.1.19 The full Implementation Plan would cover both the space-based and surface-based components. The plan would also concentrate on the surface-based network as that is within the capabilities of NMHSs in the Region. Not all aspects would be relevant to each Members of Region V. The session recommends that the RA V endorse the draft plan (Annex III) and request each NMHS to develop national action plan, using the draft plan as a template and adapting it to their capabilities. It was suggested that the WMO, SPREP, and donor projects aiming for improving National Weather Services capabilities incorporate this template in to their Quality Management Framework and other capacity building workshops planned for the next two years. 3.1.20 CBS-XIV requested Members to nominate National Focal Points for reporting progress and plans in their country related to EGOS-IP. It was noted that only five members in RA V have nominated Focal Points. The session recommends that remaining Members of RA V nominate a Focal Point to report on the Implementation Plan for the Evolution of the GOS. Regulatory Material 3.1.21 The meeting noted that CBS had requested the RA V to start action in reviewing the Manual on the Global Observing System (WMO-No. 544), Volume II, Regional Aspects to incorporate changes and developments in the GOS performance in RA V taking into account new elements including: (i) The use of objective criteria regarding the arrangements and the procedures of revising, updating and amending the RBSN; - 10 - (ii) The use of in situ observing systems (AMDAR, AWSs, etc.); (iii) The composition and the best practices of the GCOS stations (GSN and GUAN); (iv) The concept and the composition of the RBCN; (v) The space-based subsystem and the migration to MSG; and (vi) The instruments and methods of observation programmes (IMOP). 3.1.22 The Rapporteur on the GOS in Region V and the Chairperson of RA V WG/PIW are requested to consider the relevant updates made by RA VI and RA I and propose revisions to the Manual on the GOS, Volume II, for endorsement by RA V, at XV-RA V in 2010 if possible, but otherwise for endorsement by the President of the Regional Association out of session. Overall Summary: Achievements, Issues and Recommendations 3.1.23 The session noted the achievements of GOS in Region V in the following areas: (i) Maintenance of the number of reports from RBSN surface and upper air observations and increase in CLIMAT TEMP reporting. (ii) Continued provision of CLIMAT although with some decrease. (iii) Continued good performance of the GSN and GUAN. (iv) Maintenance of the number of ship reports and the increase in the number of buoy reports. (v) Continued development of the AMDAR program and plans for extension to new routes. (vi) The major contribution from meteorological satellite agencies in USA, Japan, China, Europe, Russia and India to the GOS in the region. (vii) Developing use of satellite data in NMHS operations, including from research satellites. (viii) There are many other surface observation network established in the Region which will very useful for GOS 3.1.24 The session also noted the following issues and recommended to Members of RA V to address them: (i) The Region has high percentages of silent stations. (ii) Communications problems affecting the transmission of observations in some isolated areas. (iii) Further work is required in translating the concepts for the evolution of the GOS into specific actions for the region. (iv) Need to mobilize resources for enhancement of the GOS in the region. (v) Potential for AMDAR to provide upper air and sounding information. (vi) Need for low cost lightning detection for countries that do not have weather radar (vii) Ensuring GOS supports Early Warning Systems (EWS), and, in particular, Tsunami Warning Systems (TWS) in the Pacific and Indian Ocean, and, more generally, the WMO Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Programme (viii) Technical expertise in calibrating and sustaining observing systems is required and more training opportunities should be developed for the region. 3.1.25 The session further recommended to Members of RA V address GOS in Region V in the following areas: - 11 - (i) Continuation of efforts to mobilize resources to maintain the surface-based networks in the region and reduce the number of silent stations. (ii) More efforts from RA V Member to identify communications problems restricting the international dissemination of observations. (iii) Identify more specifically the actions required by Members for the evolution of the GOS and commence monitoring of the implementation of the plan. (iv) More effective advocacy of the importance of observations for climate change, early warning systems and risk assessment for natural disasters. (v) Continued assistance from the AMDAR Panel and Technical Coordinator to develop a regional AMDAR development plan. (vi) Encourage NMHSs to install local lightning detection systems (for example as a service to aviation) and to assist global networks in the installation of receivers. (vii) Identify additional existing stations that belong to National Meteorological Services or to other agencies of the respective countries to improve the spatial resolution of the surface networks for monitoring and detecting meteorological changes on a local scale (viii) Training and capacity building for the maintenance and operations of GCOS stations is needed for the region. 3.2 TELECOMMUNICATION SYSTEM: OPAG-ISS – INCLUDING GTS, IMTN/RMTN, RANET AND OTHER DISTRIBUTION AND COLLECTION SYSTEMS AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT (AGENDA ITEM 3.2) 3.2.1 The session was pleased that considerable progress had been made in improving the RMDCN in RA V by the use of managed network services. It noted that RA V now has three private and highly secure MPLS clouds including the IMTN connections from Melbourne to Tokyo, Washington and Exeter implemented by Orange Business Services, a regional cloud connecting centres in the western part of the Region with SingTel, and the US NWS national network NOAAnet connecting Honolulu, Guam and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre. It also was pleased to receive reports that RTH Wellington is currently implementing a new MSS which has the capability to deliver modern WIS services such as TDCF conversion. 3.2.2 It noted the continued use of internet as an important method of implementing GTS links within the region and inter-regionally, and noted the internet has also been employed as a backup for the IMTN between Melbourne and Tokyo, Washington and Exeter. It was also aware that in some countries GTS links operating over the internet are not reliable. It was also noted that Timor Leste had recently become a member of WMO and did not have access to the GTS. 3.2.3 In addition to this many centres still rely on alternative mechanisms to implement GTS circuits including leased lines, satellite distribution systems (LRIT, EMWIN), as well as RANET and Digital HF radio networks. It especially noted the importance of the EMWIN satellite broadcast in support of DRR across the region for time critical information such as severe weather and tsunami warnings. It was concerned that EWMIN coverage would be reduced due to the impending failure of PEACESAT (GOES-7) satellite which relays the broadcast into the western Pacific, and was concerned that a project currently under way to upgrade EMWIN systems was not fully funded. It requested that this issue be brought to the attention of the VCP and other potential donors to seek additional funds to augment the significant commitment made by USA and ensure the successful completion of the project. 3.2.4 In discussions around GEO and GEONETCAST global broadcasts, it was noted that coverage of the Pacific basin was minimal with only the eastern and western fringes of the region having coverage from the broadcasts operated by CMA and NOAA NESDIS. It was reminded that in many countries the provision of backup communications was absolutely necessary for critical warning services. Digital Video Broadcast technology available to other parts of the world through GEONETCAST could be an appropriate solution for the Region where reliable communications are a constant problem. - 12 - 3.2.5 The session noted the continuation of marine HF Broadcasts for dissemination of products from Honolulu, Melbourne and Wellington for mariners. 3.2.6 The results of the analysis of the October 2005 to 2008 Annual Global Monitoring (AGM), and the January, April and July 2009 exercises of the Integrated WWW Monitoring (IWM) and Special MTN Monitoring were discussed. There were some unexplained cases where AWS data and CLIMAT reports from some Pacific countries were not being transmitted through the MTNs. MTN Melbourne and RTH Wellington agreed to follow up on these matters. 3.2.7 In terms of the implementation of the WIS, it was not clear how members would implement a Data Access and Retrieval (DAR) capability in the region other than via the Melbourne GISC, however continued enhancement of the GTS was planned, with the upgrade of the Singapore–Manila link to the SingTel MPLS service in January 2010, the planned extension of NOAANet from Hawaii to Pago Pago in 2010 and the establishment of a VHF voice circuit between the Pago Pago and Apia Forecast offices. Australia also planned to investigate if the links to Noumea and Nadi could be replaced with access to the RMDCN (Regional Meteorological Data Communication Network) at a reasonable cost. 3.2.8 The session was advised that needs for training and development were not diminishing but increasing because of the new technologies. The meeting endorsed the planned RANET training course to be held in Wellington in 2010, and recommended that additional training activities were planned to provide the required transfer of skills for other systems. It also noted the specific need within the RANET Pilot Project for online training resources and centralised documentation and software services, the requirement for a fully funded RANET Helpdesk within the region, and additionally the need for additional technical support beyond the unfunded ad-hoc support work undertaken by New Zealand. It also noted the request for the establishment of RANET in-country focal points for better coordination of system faults. 3.2.9 The session was advised that progress has been made on the migration to Table Driven Code Forms (TDCF), with Australia, Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore all having commenced migration to TDCF. It was also noted that Australia was providing conversion from Traditional Alpha-numeric Code (TAC) to TDCF for Solomon Islands, Fiji, Timor Leste, Nauru and Papua New Guinea. Wellington also advised the meeting that they would commence TAC to TDCF conversion in 2010 and expected to be able to provide a conversion capability to associated centres as well. The session recognised that many countries in RA V would continue to need data in TAC format for the foreseeable future as some processing systems relied on these formats, and the use of HF e-mail for transmission precluded the use of binary forms. 3.2.10 The session was updated on developments in the RA-II RA-V VPN Pilot Project, and was advised that the project was now in an advanced stage of demonstration of internet based technologies as a component of WIS, and was now delivering applications for the collection and display of information in a secure way across the internet. In addition the meeting agreed that the Severe Weather Forecasting Disaster Demonstration Project currently in the initial pilot stage needed to be fully supported by GTS-WIS activities. Additionally, the SWFDDP could also be used to promote WIS/WIGOS capabilities. Another initiative that received the meetings endorsement was the potential for a Japanese Government project in Samoa designed to improve core observing and communications infrastructure. 3.2.11 The session recommended that Members of Region V continue the development of GTS/WIS in Region V in the following areas: - 13 - (i) Development of a Pacific wide satellite 2-way broadcast service to provide a regional satellite service capable of delivering reliable 2 way GTS Services to Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to complement existing communications systems, a replacement platform for the GOES 7 rebroadcast of EMWIN and LRIT, and a mechanism to deliver advanced services such as SWFDDP to the region. (ii) Development of a fully funded RANET Helpdesk and Technical Support Centre in the region for coordination and resolution of issues, complemented by the appointment of in-country focal points for improved co-ordination with regional support activities. (iii) Development of a Regional WIS implementation strategy that includes a WIS Data Access and Retrieval Project between selected centres. (iv) EMWIN replacement programme continue to completion and be fully funded. (v) Further participation in the WIS VPN Pilot Project as a demonstration of WIS capability by members. (vi) Ongoing fully funded programme of training and support activities be developed to complement the advances in technology in the Region, in addition to the training activities already planned under the RANET Pilot Project. (vii) Inclusion of a GTS link from Timor Leste to an appropriate centre within the Region in the Regional Telecommunications Plan. (viii) Continued vigilance on Radio Frequency matters by WMO Members, specifically the registration with the national authority of all radio frequencies used by NHMSs. 3.2.12 The meeting noted that many centres in RA V still have limited connection to GTS via dedicated links and are utilising the alternative telecommunication technologies such as Internet, satellite distribution systems (LRIT, EMWIN, and RANET), as well Digital HF and HF radio. Noting this diversity in telecommunications across Region V, the session strongly recommends the work of the Subgroup on ISS should remain a priority activity for RA V. 3.3 WWW SUPPORT ACTIVITIES: OPAG-ISS – INCLUDING OPERATIONAL INFORMATION SYSTEM (OIS) (AGENDA ITEM 3.3) 3.3.1 The session noted the important role of Operational Information System (OIS), and encouraged NMHSs to access the updated WWW operational information, including WMO Publications Nos. 9 Volume A and C and monitoring results on the WMO Web server for its use, review and updating. It also encouraged centres to utilise the information available from Melbourne WMC on data monitoring, in particular the usage of observations by NWP, and the monthly and six monthly data quality reports. See http://www.bom.gov.au/nmoc/Docs/Data_Monitoring/ 3.4 DATA PROCESSING AND FORECASTING SYSTEM: OPAG-DPFS – INCLUDING THE SEVERE WEATHER FORECAST AND DISASTER RISK REDUCTION DEMONSTRATION (SWFDDP) (AGENDA ITEM 3.4) Data Process and Forecasting System (DPFS) 3.4.1 The session was informed on the status of the Global Data Processing and Forecasting System (GDPFS), including Emergency Response Activities (ERA) in RA V, as well as areas of development currently under way that could have relevance for the Region. The meeting noted that the GDPFS is one of the core components of the Members" operational infrastructure, the World Weather Watch System, and underpins a wide range of forecasting-related and environmental services that WMO Members provide, including public weather and warning services as well as services to many socio-economic sectors. The GDPFS also supports climate information and prediction services and its potential is increasing for activities such as hydrology, oceanography and atmospheric pollution. - 14 - 3.4.2 A highlight in the report is that the number of centres operating NWP systems has increased since the last Working Group meeting. Indonesia, Malaysia and Philippines now operate limited area models and, in the case of Malaysia, a wave model and a storm surge model. In support of long-range forecasting (LRF), Melbourne has been designated as a Global Producing Centre (GPC) for seasonal to inter-annual forecasts based on ensemble predictions from a coupled ocean-atmosphere model. The meeting requested the Secretariat to maintain an up to date table of the configurations of NWP systems to assist the understanding of NMHS staff, especially as there is a greater uptake of NWP information for use in operational forecasting in tropical areas of RA V. 3.4.3 The session noted that following the World Climate Conference 3 and in the context of developing a Global Framework for Climate Services, the Global Producing Centres (GPCs) and other regional centres would be expected to play a major role in providing global climate predictions from seasonal to longer time-scales. 3.4.4 Ensemble Prediction Systems (EPS) are becoming increasingly integrated into operational NWP systems and gradually into forecasting and warning services. Continuing support for capacity building in the use of EPS products in weather forecasting and provision of services is needed, especially in developing countries. Use of EPS output is included in the SWFDDP for the South Pacific Islands. 3.4.5 The session noted that CBS-XIV had encouraged all relevant NWP centres to implement verification scores in the standardized way to facilitate reliable comparison of outputs among centres. New verification methods for high resolution models and the prediction of severe or high impact weather (e.g. precipitation) are of interest to NMHSs in the region who operate NWP systems. 3.4.6 The meeting commended the work that has been undertaken to further develop the capabilities of the RSMCs for Environmental Emergency Response and noted that operational procedures, published in the Manual of the GDPFS, have been updated as part of the ERA Web pages of the WMO Website for the convenience of Members. The meeting also noted the implementation of an operational atmospheric transport model (ATM) backtracking system on 1 September 2008, which includes the participation of RSMC Melbourne, arising from collaboration between WMO and CTBTO. 3.4.7 The meeting also noted that CBS-XIV had requested a comprehensive review of the Manual on the GDPFS to bring it up to date and to take into account the possible future evolution of the GDPFS (such as experienced through the SWFDP), the roles and responsibilities of RSMCs, as well as fundamental changes under way in other components of the World Weather Watch, particularly WIGOS and WIS. The meeting requested that RA V be actively involved in the review process. The Severe Weather Forecasting and Disaster Risk Reduction Demonstration Project (SWFDDP) in WMO Region V (South-west Pacific) 3.4.8 The GDPFS contributes directly to day-to-day forecasting and the forecasting of severe and high-impact weather phenomena, over a wide range of forecast time scales, spanning from the very short-range (within first 12 hours) to the long-range. As NWP and EPS systems improve, NMHSs in many developing countries seek similar benefits as those in developed countries, especially in the provision of advisories and warnings of severe weather events with increased lead-times. The Severe Weather Forecasting Demonstration Project (SWFDP) represents an approach that facilitates improved access to, training in the interpretation, and use of existing NWP/EPS products by forecasters in developing countries. Among the lessons learned so far from the SWFDP is a possible new role for RSMCs to synthesize and to provide forecasting guidance on severe weather forecasting to regional groups of NMHSs, while also supporting smaller NMHSs to gain a better understanding of NWP through its interpretation and verification of guidance products. - 15 - 3.4.9 The subproject in RA V is known as the Severe Weather Forecasting and Disaster Risk Reduction Demonstration Project (SWFDDP) to emphasise that public weather services and disaster risk reduction are part of the project from the start. The overarching objective for SWFDDP activities in RA V is to raise the operational capacity of small NHMSs in the region to produce effective longer range severe weather alerts and warnings for the people in their countries. Another goal is to strengthen the role of the various RSMCs in their services to countries in the region including RSMC Nadi–TCC in its provision of tropical cyclone warning services. Gaps and areas for improvement should be identified, which can then be addressed through capacity and resilience building activities under various regional programs. It will be important to establish links to Natural Disaster Management Offices (NDMOs) and the Disaster Risk Reduction Community from the outset, and to focus on improvement in Public Weather Services. 3.4.10 A Regional Subproject Management Team meeting was held in Wellington in April 2009 to prepare an Implementation Plan. It was decided to hold a pilot phase involving four countries starting on 1 November 2009, followed by an extended demonstration phase from 1 November 2010 with an expanded group of RA V countries. A key tool was a central web site to be hosted by RSMC Wellington. In-country training involving representatives of local Natural Disaster Management Offices and NMHSs was also seen as essential. However, the project should take advantage of other training opportunities such as the WMO Southern Hemisphere Training Course on Tropical Cyclones and Public Weather Service (2009) and e-learning facilities. 3.4.11 The pilot phase commenced on 1 November 2009 focusing on Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands in a complete end-to-end cascading process. In-country training (provided by UK and New Zealand) was provided during September and October. 3.4.12 The web portal developed by RSMC Wellington (called MetConnect Pacific) is now operational as a single point of access for global and regional products. RSMCs Wellington and Nadi are also producing extended range guidance products for the participating countries, with RSMC Nadi providing guidance for tropical cyclones and RSMC Wellington, guidance on other severe weather and marine phenomena. RSMC Wellington produces graphical guidance out to five days, synthesising the additional NWP products being provided as part of SWFDDP. NWP products on MetConnect Pacific currently come from global centres (UK Met Office and ECMWF) and Darwin RSMC with possible contributions later in the project from USA (NOAA National Center for Environmental Prediction) and Météo France. 3.4.13 SWFDDP provides a valuable opportunity to develop services to local communities through translating the potential of advances NWP products into operational use within NMHS and their partner organisations such as media and NMDOs. The contribution to the SWFDDP from global and regional centres is gratefully acknowledged, especially the lead role played by RSMC Wellington and its establishment of the web portal. Several national meteorological services have also contributed financially to the holding of meetings, providing training and developing the web site. 3.4.14 The experience of the SWFDP in southern Africa is that there have been great benefits arising from a modest input of resources. The lack of resources for the SWFDP projects (both in Africa and other regions) has been acknowledged as an issue within WMO and efforts are being made by the WMO Secretariat to support the SWFDP through optimising activities across WMO programmes and in seeking support from potential development partners and other agencies who stand to benefit from the important results of the SWFDP. 3.4.15 The meeting endorsed the plans for the SWFDDP to include other countries and supported the concept of extending a RSMC operational guidance area to a "western window. - 16 - The possibility of setting up a similar guidance area north of the equator was also discussed. The meeting noted that the SWFDDP would raise questions about the potential of WIS and WIGOS to support the added roles of NMHSs and RSMCs. It also emphasised the importance of engaging end users to facilitate enhancements in public weather services contributions to national development (socioeconomic benefits) and strengthen links with natural disaster management organizations. There was also discussion about SWFDDP taking on other areas of interest e.g. volcanic ash for aviation at some later stage. 3.5 PUBLIC WEATHER SERVICE: OPAG-PWS – INCLUDING OTHER COMPONENTS OF THE APPLICATIONS OF METEOROLOGY (AGENDA ITEM 3.5) The session recalled that XIV-RA V reiterated that the end result of the provision of public weather services to the national community is to enhance and ensure public safety and welfare. Since the provision of high-quality public weather service is a fundamental function of NMHSs, there is an urgent need to assist Members of RA V to effectively deliver quality products to ensure the protection of life and people"s livelihood and contribute to sustainable development. 3.5.1 The Rapporteur for PWS (Kang Thean Shong (Malaysia)) in his report noted that Members had carried out or had planned a range of initiatives to enhance their PWS programme, including providing broad-scale severe weather and localized severe thunderstorm warning services to the public, aviation and marine sectors, such as: Expanding network of automatic weather stations; Addition and upgrading of conventional weather radar to Doppler weather radar as well as enhancing its software tools; Enhancing thunderstorm forecasting methods and forecaster expertise; Monitoring, verification and improving accuracy of weather forecast and warnings; Use of websites, email and SMS (some with graphic and animation) for public weather forecast and warning information; and Disaster Alert System (DAS), whereby the fixed line telephone of certain affected regions would be activated, as well as direct access to television broadcasting through special arrangement to promptly warn the public of threat from severe weather. 3.5.2 The session also recalled the priority areas that RA V-XIV requested that the future work of the PWS Programme to address. In addition to these, the Rapporteur for PWS noted that the Fifth Technical Conference on the Management of Meteorological and Hydrological Services in Regional Association V (South-West Pacific) was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from 20 to 24 April 2009, with the theme of "Strategic Capacity Development of NMHSs in RA V". The conference made a series of recommendations to the WMO Secretariat and the Association for ways to improve the Management of Meteorological and Hydrological Services in the region. Some of these recommendations which are applicable to enhance the PWS programmes, including their visibility to its stakeholders, in the region are as follows: (i) To prioritize the requirements and expectations of Members, especially LDCs and SIDS, and to enhance effective partnerships within and outside the Region. (ii) To incorporate issues on adaptation to climate change and research on extreme weather and climate events, RCCs, long-term sustainable operation of services, and Quality Management Systems (QMS) in the RA V Strategic Plan. (iii) Explore possible establishment of a region-wide multi-hazard warning system, including tsunami. (iv) To incorporate recommendations from the Madrid Conference and the WMO Coordination and Capacity Building Workshop for LDCs in Asia-Pacific (Port Vila, Vanuatu, October 2008) are incorporated into Regional Expected Result 9 (Enhance Capabilities of NMHSs) of the draft RA V Strategic Plan (2009-2011), and link it directly to national development priorities of LDCs in Region V. - 17 - (v) To build strong relationships or partnerships between NMHSs, national Governments and all other stakeholders is critical to the success of any warning systems. (vi) To enhance ICT facilities in SIDS in Region V and to integrate as well as to ensure interoperability and compatibility of ICT and early warning monitoring systems, so that data and products can reach NMHSs and warnings can reach the targeted local people, especially those in remote areas. (vii) To take advantage of opportunities and to share existing ICT systems through partnership and collaboration, and too ensure sustainability of existing ICT systems should be ensured, such as RANET and EMWIN, in view of the tangible benefits delivered by these systems to developing countries, including LDCs and SIDS. (viii) More information about QMS should be provided by WMO and the International Civil Aviation Authority (ICAO) to Members of RA V to assist them with the implementation of QMS in their NMHSs by 2010;Members of RA V in particular LDCs and SIDS in the Pacific region should be urged to group together to mobilize resources and implement QMS in their NMHSs, and a similar arrangement could be made for cost recovery. (ix) For WMO to provide guidance and collect best practices on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) partnerships that are successful in downscaling DRR to the local level, so that warning information and evacuation strategies reflect the best advice by local officials to the local population. (x) To closely review the frequency of the occurrence of extreme weather events, to improve disaster risk reduction and mitigation efforts, and help improve warning messages, in particular for locations where the time period between extreme hazard events is long. (xi) To strengthen DRR partnerships, in particular the outreach and education aspects of warnings and evacuations related to fires. 3.5.3 The Rapporteur also noted that Members from RA V have participated in various PWS capability and capacity building activities, and the meeting expressed its appreciation to the Secretariat for these training opportunities and for the extensive publications on PWS that have been published. Members have found both the training and the publications very helpful. The Secretariat suggested that Members make full use of the recently published Guidelines on Communicating Forecast Uncertainty, PWS-18; WMO/TD No. 1422, which is freely available at http://www.wmo.int/pws. 3.5.4 The Members of the Working Group extend their deepest appreciation and congratulations to all WMO Members, especially the participating members and the Hong Kong Observatory, Hong Kong, China as well as WMO Secretariat for the successful implementation of the World Weather Information Service (WWIS) which won the Stockholm Challenge 2008. As of 1 September 2009, 17 Members from RA V participate in the WWIS and Severe Weather Information Centre (SWIC) programmes. The meeting recommended that actions should be taken, especially by providing assistance and partnership to enhance the capability and capacity of LDCs and SIDs, to increase the participation of RA V Members. The Working Group requested Members to promote the use of the information on these web sites. 3.5.5 The PWS Programme is considering the importance of developing forecasting services for road and driving conditions as part of PWS activities to serve both the traveling public and professionals responsible for road safety and maintenance. In this regard, it is recommended that Members of RA V send examples of how they deliver road services in their respective countries, to the Secretariat for inclusion in the Public Weather Services Programme (PWSP) Website (http://www.wmo.int/pws/). The aim is to provide information and examples on road forecasting as a reference resource for NMHSs wishing to improve their own road weather services. - 18 - 3.5.6 The session was informed of the need to develop Nowcasting services as was clearly expressed by NMHSs of the RAV through the Survey on Improving the Delivery of Public Weather Services, carried out by the WMO PWS Programme. The Working Group agreed to recommend to Members to consider this stated need when planning the activities of the PWS Programme in Region V. 3.5.7 The session was informed of the "Learning through Doing" (LTD) initiative by the PWS Programme, which involves assisting NMHSs to improve their communication with users and to produce and deliver an improved range of services according to user requirements. The Working Group commended the concept to Members of Region V and suggested that individual Members contact the Secretariat to express interest in projects using this approach. 3.5.8 The session was informed of the establishment of the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) as the foundation standard for public alerting in societies worldwide. CAP, formally designated as ITU Recommendation X.1303, is a simple and general format for emergency alerting and public warning. It is designed for "all-hazards", addressing weather events, earthquakes, tsunami, volcanoes, public health, power outages, and many other emergencies. It was also designed for "all-media", addressing communications media ranging from sirens to cell phones, faxes, radio, television, and various digital communication networks including the Internet. The Working Group recommends that Members in RA V adopt the use of CAP for their domestic warnings as required by NDMOs in their country. It also recommended that warnings currently exchanged internationally on the GTS be also transmitted in CAP. The session had some queries about details on the content of CAP in various warnings settings and will seek clarification from the Secretariat. 3.5.9 The session was informed that WMO had launched an online WMO Register of Alerting Authorities. This register is designed to provide the opportunity for each WMO Member to identify itself and other alerting authorities in its country or state as an officially recognized alerting authority. The register contains information on each category of alert message issued, and where on the Internet one could find forecasts and CAP messages. In addition to enhancing information exchange among WMO Members, this facility should be very useful for international aggregators of alert messages. The Working Group invited each RA V Member to ensure that the parts of the Register of Alerting Authorities relevant to them were updated regularly. 3.5.10 Members of the Working Group felt that information on socio-economic benefits of forecasts and warnings would be beneficial. The session was advised that the WMO PWS has information on the WMO web site as a resource for users including NMHSs, emergency managers, governments, and weather and climate agencies that may need to develop similar tools. 3.5.11 The session noted that media presentations were an effective way of improving the visibility of NMHSs and noted the success of recent innovations by some in installing media rooms for producing television weather segments. However, several NMHS represented noted that they needed both training and resources such as media broadcasting training and presentation software. Noting this need the session recommends that training and resources be addressed under activities of the WMO PWS Programme in coordination with the Voluntary Cooperation Program. 3.6 CO-OPERATION ACTIVITIES INCLUDING DRR: TSUNAMI WARNING SERVICES, AND THE NEW GLOBAL FRAMEWORK FOR CLIMATE SERVICES FOR UNDERSTANDING AND ADAPTING TO CLIMATE CHANGE (AGENDA ITEM 3.6) Climate Services - 19 - 3.6.1 The session was briefed on the key issues of climate services including the important role of WIS and WIGOS in supporting climate activities. In particular, the special needs of climate on ensuring the free and unrestricted exchange of observations that are quality controlled and well documented metadata. It noted that the Commission for Climatology was establishing regional climate centres that were relying extensively on the interoperability of WIS to ensure access of climate information to decision and policy makers. It noted that a major effort of the climate community was in identifying and digitizing climate data through a data rescue program to ensure these important climate information are not lost to future generations. The session was also informed on the outcomes of the World Climate Conference 3 and the present work on establishment of a Global Framework on Climate Services in which WMO will be a major contributor. Participants noted the significance of Climate in the Region and expressed their interest in hosting any pilots initiated by the WMO that could improve monitoring and adaptation strategies for member states. Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) 3.6.2 The meeting was briefed on the progress of the Disaster Risk Reduction activities in WMO. It noted the excellent work in identifying the frequency, impact on life and the economic impact of natural hazards from the OFDA/CRED database. It noted the information from 2006 survey, to which fourteen out of twenty-two RA V Members had contributed, addressed five primary areas, including: (i) Identification and prioritization of hazards affecting WMO Members and NMHS ability to monitor, archive and provide hazard information; (ii) Identification of the national policies and legislation in disaster risk management and reflection of the role of the NMHS; (iii) Observational network and institutional capacities for monitoring, detecting and forecasting of hazards; (iv) Technical capacity and needs of the NMHS in areas such as hazard analysis and early warning systems to support different components of disaster risk management; (v) Extent of partnerships and concept of operations between the NMHS and their partners in disaster risk management. 3.6.3 The session concluded that RA V represented the full range of variation in capacity of NMHSs with some members having little ability across all five areas, while many had partial ability in some areas, and some had full capability across all areas. It also noted that RA V has advanced significantly in establishing relationships between disaster managers, governments and NMHS through SPREP and SOPAC in the pacific, and ASEAN COST and the ASEAN Disaster Reduction Centre (ADRC) in the northwest pacific. It concluded that the work of WMO at the highest level should be coordinated with the existing regional activities. In particular, it noted that the guidance material described by the DRR programme should assist NMHS in the region to improve their participation in the DRR activity in their country. It encouraged the secretariat to make this information available. 3.6.4 The session was informed of DRR activities and guidance material, including the criteria for DRR Project Development. It noted that the SWFDDP fitted these criteria well and outcomes could be linked to DRR efforts. 3.6.5 The session was informed that a DRR Workshop funded by JICA and SPREP would be held in Fiji in February 2010. It requested that Fiji provide more information through WMO Subregional Office to promote an opportunity to leverage resources. 3.6.6 The session was updated on issues associated with Tsunami warning services by the NOAA Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre (PTWC). It noted that the tsunami warning service is an end to end process, covering many stakeholders, starting with the collection of sea level data, seismic data and delivering a warning and action plans to the people in affected areas. "From observations to people on the beach". Some participants highlighted that the - 20 - perceptions of many people that the implementation of such a service is simply "plug and play". They do not realize the amount of work that went into establishing the coordination and collaboration that lies behind tsunami warning services. The session also recognized that the importance of effective outreach programs informing the public and emergency response teams of the meaning of advisories and warnings and that such work should be ongoing to keep the information fresh. The session thanked IOC International Tsunami Information Center (IOC/ITIC) and the PTWS for their efforts in the establishment of tsunami warning services for the region and in particular, as noted by Malaysia, this contribution significantly helped NMHS engage emergency managers in establishment of their warning services. The session also recognised that there was still much work to be done in developing an effective communications infrastructure and procedures for tsunami warnings. 3.6.7 The session noted that many NMHSs had taken on new roles and responsibilities for tsunami warnings without additional resources for this work-load which was considerable for some countries. 3.7 OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDING GEO/GEOSS (AGENDA ITEM 3.7) GEO/GEOSS 3.7.1 The session reviewed the concepts of Group on Earth Observations (GEO), and activities under its Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS). It noted that WIS is an exemplar system of the GEOSS interoperability through adoption of a common set of standards for metadata, search and similar data sharing principles and that participation in WIS would ensure interoperability with GEOSS. The meeting noted that GEONETCAST, a satellite broadcast system supported by EUMETCAST, CMA, NOAA and WMO has potential to address some of the issues associated with the lack of satellite coverage in the Pacific. Noting the report of the Sub-group on ISS on issues with satellite distribution systems, the session encourages Members in the Pacific to consider membership and active participation in GEO and GEOSS efforts to ensure their needs are being addressed within the GEO Framework. It noted that the Americas have formed a regional working group to assure more coordination, cooperation, and capacity building for GEOSS in the Americas. THORPEX 3.7.2 The session was informed on current THORPEX activity and noted the potential of THORPEX and its contributions to assist NMHS in providing their services through such activities as SWFDDP. In particular the THORPEX Interactive Grand Global Ensemble (TIGGE) that contributes to the better use and understanding of ensemble products. It also noted the work of the Global Interactive Forecast System (GIFS) Research and Development Project that recognizes the sensitivity of NWP to observations in critical areas. Such work should be of assistance in reaping some of the benefits of WIGOS, and the initial focus on tropical cyclone forecasting could be of benefit to RA V. The session also noted the contribution of TIGGE to the ongoing improvement of WIS, including the refinement of GRIB to incorporate ensemble outputs, and in demonstrating the suitability of the internet for passing large volumes of information around. In addition it noted the role of THORPEX in supporting NMHS operating Limited Area Models utilising TIGGE output for initialization and boundary conditions. 3.7.3 It suggested that the effectiveness of links between THORPEX and the RA V operational community could be enhanced by: Engagement of operational forecasters in the utilisation and evaluation of output from THORPEX projects Active Involvement of RSMCs and smaller NMHSs in the project including involvement in GIFS studies for imporoving observations of tropical cyclones. Increasing accessibility to multi model ensemble prediction fields for small developing countries with bandwidth limitations by providing synthesized products that - 21 - convey information about the ensemble predictions without requiring the user to down-load large raw model output. 4. IMPLEMENTATION COORDINATION AND SUPPORT ACTIVITIES 4.1 PROPOSED WORKING ARRANGEMENTS AND ISSUES UNDER WMO STRATEGIC PLAN INCLUDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF RA V STRATEGIC PLAN (AGENDA ITEM 4.1) 4.1.1 The session was provided with information on the progress on the development of the RA V Strategic Plan (2009-2011), with the background of ongoing WMO Strategic Planning process. It noted that the updated draft RA V Strategic Plan identified 35 Regional Expected Results and 87 deliverables taking into account the recommendations from the fifth RA V Technical Conference (Kuala Lumpur, 20-24 April 2009). It further noted that the Management Group requested the Task Team on Strategic Planning to continue to develop its Action Plan by proposing concrete action for each corresponding deliverable, in collaboration with Working Groups" Chairpersons. A complete RA V Strategic Plan would compose of the executive summary; introduction; regional priorities; review of the implementation of strategic goals; purpose, vision and mission of Strategic Plan; Strategic Plan for the enhancement of NMHSs in RA V (2010-2011); and its Action Plan. 4.1.2 The session agreed that the WG-PIW Chairperson, Subgroup on GTS/ISS Coordinator and rapporteurs actively contribute to the development of RA V Strategic Plan"s Action Plan and provide to the president of RA V Working Groups" inputs to the key outcomes for the next WMO Strategic Plan 2012-2015, with a view to identify priority needs and activities for WWW-related issues in Region V. 4.1.3 The session was further informed of the salient aspects of the forthcoming fifteenth session of Regional Association V (XV-RA V) scheduled to be held in Bali, Indonesia, from 30 April to 6 May 2009; the reform concept of XV-RA V; and expected role of WG-PIW. The meeting considered the preparation and reporting mechanism of the WG-PIW to be submitted to XV-RA V in light of the planned provisional Agenda and Work Plan of the session. The working group members agreed to prepare and submit one consolidated report by the Chairperson of WG-PIW containing reports by individual rapporteurs. 4.1.4 The session was informed of possible future working mechanism of the Association to be restructured based on the WMO Strategic Plan Expected Results, and considered the necessary steps to propose the draft resolution including Terms of Reference and memberships of the WWW-related Working Groups/Task Teams. 4.1.5 The session noted that large Working Groups that were only able to meet once every four years due to financial limitations was not an effective means of carrying out the work program of the Regional Association. The session emphasized that the available resources should be allocated to the high priority areas and those areas where experience has shown that results are achieved. It was also proposed that all groups established should: Focus on addressing identified tasks Have the necessary capabilities and expertise to complete tasks assigned Be as multi-disciplinary as possible Tie in to the Development agenda (specifically the Millennium Goals through the Madrid Plan in the case of Public Weather Services) Attempt to build partnerships outside the meteorological community who may be facing the same issues Adopt a problem-solving approach in cooperation with identified partners. 4.1.6 It was also suggested that careful consideration should be given to the naming of any working groups or committees to ensure that they convey meaning to the broader community outside WMO and relate to the problems and issues facing the community across the Region. - 22 - 4.1.7 Given the financial constraints the session suggested that standing committees should only be appointed where there was a need to coordinate ongoing important activities. Otherwise, the session proposed that temporary Task Teams be appointed for high priority tasks. The session suggests that much of the functioning of such committees should be as "virtual groups", using electronic communication as much as possible for both standing committees and task teams. Financial resources for meetings should be allocated to the high priority areas and should ensure that the appropriate technical experts were able to meet together. 4.1.8 The session noted that for this structure to succeed the RA V Management Group would need to provide a constant leadership, coordination and decision-making role, using electronic communication means in between meeting opportunities. The session recommended that any Chairs of Working Groups and Task Teams that had been appointed should be included in the meetings of the Management Group where possible. The current Terms of Reference for the Management Group appeared adequate for this active coordination role but may profit from a review in the light of the proposed changes in working arrangements. In particular, it could be helpful to make explicit the role of the Management Group in establishing communications processes and procedures necessary for effective stream-lined operation of working groups and task teams such as facilitating information sharing, involving of working group members and PRs and notification of decisions. 4.1.9 In relation to the establishment of specific groups, the session concentrated on the structure that would replace the WG PIW role in the Planning and Implementation of the World Weather Watch. However, the session strongly recommended that an equivalent of the Tropical Cyclone Committee for the Pacific and South-east Indian Ocean should continue in a standing role. This Committee has proved successful in improving tropical cyclone services and this need is continuing. The session suggested that the scope of the group could be expanded to include other aspects of Early Warnings such as the warnings components for tsunamis. The session noted that many NMHS have taken on this additional responsibility and many of the issues (such as communications, interaction with the community and emergency service organizations) are similar. 4.1.10 Noting the diversity in telecommunications across Region V and the need for development in communications, the session strongly recommends the work of the Subgroup on ISS should remain a priority activity for RA V.The session also felt that a Working Group or Task Team on Infrastructure and Technology Implementation was necessary. This group could cover the areas of communications and observations included under WIS and WIGOS. However, multilateral cooperation and the deployment of the required technical expertise are clearly needed in the area of communications, particularly for the Pacific and must be included in any working group. 4.1.11 The recommendation by the session for the development of a Pacific wide two-way satellite service is a high priority task work that could be progressed quickly by a small Task Team. It is recommended that such a Task Team be established as soon as possible, and report to the Management Group as an interim measure until a more comprehensive Working Group is established. Another task team could be established to focus on Early Warnings communications. 4.1.12 The session suggested that, following the pattern of some other Regional Associations, Service activities and some cross-cutting activities could be brought together under the umbrella of a Services and Partnership Development Working Group. This could cover public weather services, disaster risk reduction as well as other service areas. Under this umbrella again the use of Task Teams could be used. One such task team could be the already established Regional Project Management Team for the SWFDDP. This group is already established and the SWFDDP has now commenced its pilot phase. The session saw - 23 - it as a high priority for this group to continue. It also could report to the Management Team in the short term until a broader umbrella group is formed. 4.1.13 In summary, to cover Expected Results of relevance to the Working Groups on WWW and DPM, the session recommends the establishment of: A Tropical Cyclone Committee, perhaps expanded in scope to include warnings aspects of other high impact hazards, especially tsunamis A Working Group on Infrastructure and Technology Implementation A Working Group on Services and Partnership Development (including Public Weather Services and Disaster Risk Reduction). However, it recommended as a high priority that Task Teams be established as soon as possible on: Development of a satellite services (communications and data exchange) for the Pacific The Severe Weather Forecasting and Disaster Risk Reduction Demonstration Project (SWFDDP) These should report to the Management Group in the short term until the Working Groups have been established and convened. A diagram showing the proposed structure is shown below. New Working Mechanism of RA V (Proposed by RA V WG-PIW 5 (10Dec2009)) Regional Association V SW-Pacific President Task Team - Development of a satellite Management Group service for the Pacific Task Team - SWFDDP Tropical Cyclone WG on WG on Services Committee Infrastructure and Partnership and Technology Development Implementation Task Team Task Team Task Team Task Team Task Team Task Team 4.2 TECHNICAL COOPERATION SUPPORT RELATED TO THE WWW FOR RA V (AGENDA ITEM 4.2) 4.2.1 The session was pleased to note that a good progress has been made in the implementation of a Voluntary Cooperation Program (VCP) coordinated project, financially supported by the USA VCP, for the provision of Low Rate User Stations (LRUSs) to enable the Island Developing States in the Pacific to allow access to meteorological satellite images in Low Rate Information Transmission (LRIT) format. Under this project, 18 LRIT receivers - 24 - and software were procured and delivered to 16 benefiting countries and territories by May 2009. The purchasing of other relevant equipment, including antennas, PCs and peripherals, and the installation and training are in process. The installation and training has been completed in Cook Islands, Fiji, PNG, Samoa and Solomon Islands since August 2009, and is planned for Tonga, Tokelau, American Samoa, Niue, Tuvalu, Vanuatu and others in 2010. 4.2.2 The session was informed that under the VCP, various surface observing instruments were provided to Kiribati by Australia for the restoration of surface observing network, and restoration of the GTS Message Switching System in NMC Philippines was completed with the support of Japan in 2007. The request from Philippines for expert services for capacity building on the use of remotely-sensed radar and weather satellite data has been supported. VCP requests for upgrading the Internet access facilities were received from Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, which will be supported under the VCP(F). 4.2.3 Outstanding VCP project requests are: for upper-air consumables for Philippines; upgrading of the WMO Regional Instrument Centre (RIC) in the Philippines; improvement of meteorological telecommunication for the collection of observational data from surface stations and dissemination of tropical cyclone warning to communities for Solomon Islands; and establishment of a new upper-air station at Santa Cruz received from Solomon Islands. 4.2.4 Within the framework of the WMO emergency assistance scheme, the upgrading or restoration of EMWIN systems was implemented in Cook Islands, and Niue following Cyclone Heta. Plans are underway to provide support to restore basic WWW facilities for Samoa and Tonga affected by the recent September 2009 Tsunami. The USA has pledged some assistance to assist Tonga in its recovery and reestablishment of meteorological services. 4.2.5 The session was informed that the Government of Finland has approved a project for the Pacific SIDS under a special funding instrument – Institutional Cooperation Instrument with a total amount of EUR500,000. The project has two main components, namely: (1) Quality Management System (QMS) implementation support to the Pacific NMSs; and (2) support to SPREP in the development of a regional socio-economic impact study of meteorological services and update of a regional development and financial plan for the Pacific for the development of meteorology in the region. The first workshop on QMS for aviation QMS was held in September 2009, in Apia, Samoa. Two follow up workshops on QMS are planned for 2010 and 2011 in Tonga and Kiribati, respectively. Activities for component 1 of the project are schedule to start in early 2010. 4.2.6 The session was advised that the Urgent Review of Meteorological Services initiated from the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders 2008 Communiqué and being organized through SPREP was under way. It is hoped that the review will lead to a strengthening of the WWW in the Pacific. 5 OTHER BUSINESS (AGENDA ITEM 5) Nil. 6 CLOSURE OF THE SESSION (AGENDA ITEM 6) 6.1 The fifth session of the Working Group on Planning and Implementation of the WWW in RA V closed at 1310 hours on 10 December 2009. ___________ ANNEX I, p. 2 ANNEX I WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION ===================================================== FIFTH SESSION OF THE WORKING GROUP ON PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WWW IN REGION V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC) (Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 7-10 December 2009) LIST OF PARTICIPANTS 1. Members of the Working Group on Planning and Implementation of the WWW in Region V (South-West Pacific) Mr T. Hart Australia Chairperson of RA V WG/PIW firstname.lastname@example.com Mr K. Alder New Zealand Coordinator, RA V Subgroup on GTS/ISS email@example.com Dr R. Canterford Australia email@example.com Mr A. Ngari Cook Islands firstname.lastname@example.com Mr R. Prasad Fiji email@example.com Mr Sunarjo Indonesia email@example.com Mr J. Simon Malaysia firstname.lastname@example.com Mr L. K. Chiew email@example.com Mr S. Ready New Zealand firstname.lastname@example.com Mr S. Tuiafiso Samoa firstname.lastname@example.com Mr "O Fa"anunu Tonga email@example.com Mr E. Young USA email@example.com Ms J. Lewis email@example.com ANNEX I, p. 2 2. Observers Mr A. Akapo American Samoa email@example.com Ms G. Miller Guam email@example.com Mr T. Jorelik Marshall Islands firstname.lastname@example.com Ms M. Ngemaes Palau email@example.com 3. WMO Secretariat Mr T. Toya email@example.com Mr D. Thomas email@example.com Mr H. Taiki email@example.com _____________ ANNEX II WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION ===================================================== FIFTH SESSION OF THE WORKING GROUP ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WWW IN RA V (SOUTH-WEST PACIFIC) (Honolulu, Hawaii, 7-10 December 2008) AGENDA 1. ORGANIZATION OF THE MEETING 1.1 Opening of the meeting 1.2 Adoption of the agenda 1.3 Working arrangements 2. STATUS OF WWW IMPLEMENTATION AND OPERATION 2.0 Report of the Chairperson of the Working Group 2.1 WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) 2.2 WMO Information System (WIS) including the GTS and Data Management 3. REGIONAL ASPECTS OF THE WWW COMPONENTS (GOS, GTS & DM and GDPFS), PWS AND RELATED SUPPORT FUNCTIONS 3.1 Observing Systems. OPAG-IOS – including a report on the Evolution of the GOS 3.2 Telecommunications System. OPAG-ISS – including GTS, IMTN/RMTN, RANET & other distribution and collection systems, and information management, 3.3 WWW support activities. OPAG-ISS – including Operational Information Service (OIS) 3.4 Data processing and forecasting system. OPAG-DPFS – including the Severe Weather Forecast Demonstration Project 3.5 Public Weather Services. OPAG-PWS – including other components of the Applications of Meteorology Programme. 3.6 Co-operation activities including DRR, Tsunami Warning Services, and the new Global Framework for Climate Services for understanding and adapting to climate change. 3.7 Other activities including GEO/GEOSS. 4. IMPLEMENTATION COORDINATION AND SUPPORT ACTIVITIES 4.1 Proposed working arrangements and issues under WMO strategic plan including contribution to the development of the RA V strategic plan. 5. OTHER BUSINESS 6. CLOSURE OF THE SESSION _____________________ ANNEX III DRAFT IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FOR THE EVOLUTION OF THE SURFACE- BASED COMPONENT GLOBAL OBSERVING SYSTEM – RA V WMO has produced an Implementation Plan for the Evolution of Space and Surface- based sub-systems of the Global Observing System (GOS). http://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/OSY/Publications/TD1267_Impl-Plan_Evol- GOS.pdf This plan for RA V concentrates on the surface-based network that are seen to be within the capabilities of NMHSs in the region. The items are a summary of the items in the full WMO Implementation Plan which as more details on current status and actions to be taken. Surface-based sub-system NMHSs are encouraged to enhance the network of surface-based observations where they can through: G1. Distribution of observations where observations are made more frequently than normal synoptic reporting hours these should be exchanged on the GTS with a target of hourly observations where available Exchange data that may be available but is not currently exchanged on the GTS such as radar (both reflectivity and radial winds where available), local networks, high density precipitation networks; soil temperature and soil moisture, wave rider buoy data. G2. Documentation Provide good documentation in support of the observational data including metadata, careful QC and monitoring, G3. Timeliness and completeness Timely radiosonde observations at full vertical resolution (together with the time and the position of each data point; information on instrument calibration prior to launch, and information on sensor type and sub-sensor type). Timely availability of ocean observations. G4. Baseline system Maintain baseline systems especially upper winds in the tropics G5. Stratospheric observations Recognise importance of radiosondes reaching the stratosphere and maintain commitment to reach 5 hPa for GUAN stations at least. G6. Ozone sondes All available ozone soundings should be made available in near-real time on the GTS. G7. Targeted observations Investigation of the benefits of targeted observations (a THORPEX aim) G9. AMDAR Use AMDAR technology to provide more ascent / descent profiles, with improved vertical resolution, where vertical profile data from radiosondes and pilot balloons are sparse as well as into times that are currently not well observed, such as 2300 to 0500 local times. Expanding the number of operational national and regional programmes New technologies for smaller aircraft Humidity/water vapour sensors Optimising of reporting Improvements in monitoring and quality control Efforts to encourage and pursue the free exchange of data Improvements in user awareness & training plus operational forecasting tools & systems. G13. Ground-based GPS - measurements for total water vapour. Develop further the capability of ground-based GPS systems for the inference of vertically integrated moisture towards operational implementation G15. IMPROVEMENTS IN MARINE OBSERVATION TELECOMMUNICATIONS THE BANDWIDTH OF EXISTING TELECOMMUNICATION SYSTEMS SHOULD BE INCREASED (IN BOTH DIRECTIONS) OR NEW RELEVANT SATELLITE TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES SHOULD BE ESTABLISHED FOR TIMELY COLLECTION AND DISTRIBUTION. G16. Tropical moorings Encourage the extension to the Indian Ocean for both improved NWP and seasonal prediction. G17. Drifting buoys Ensure that more have pressure sensors G18. XBT and Argo floats These have demonstrated their value but support is needed for sustaining the system. G20.More profiles in Tropics Temperature, wind and, if possible, humidity profile measurements (from radiosondes, PILOTs, and aircraft) should be enhanced in the tropical belt. G21 Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) CONTINUED ENHANCED AWS OPERATIONS IS ENCOURAGED DUE TO BENEFITS INCLUDING WIDER RANGE OF MEASURED PARAMETERS; MORE FREQUENT DATA, NETWORK EXPANSION AND FURTHER AUTOMATION ACROSS THE NETWORK. APPROPRIATE CODES, REPORTING STANDARDS AND QC NEED TO BE APPLIED G22. New systems (a) wind profilers exchange data on the GTS if installed. Lightning detection systems Several commercial systems for short range and long-range Global systems can be used for NMHS use but need an adequate network of ground stations for improved detection efficiency and precision of location. The table below is a template to document the tasks required for implementation – with a completed version with details as applies to Australia. General issues regarding implementation: Are changes needed to Technical Regulations and Guides? National points of contact for implementation of the IOS should be established to liaise with the WMO Secretariat. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FOR THE EVOLUTION OF THE GLOBAL OBSERVING SYSTEM FOR (COUNTRY) Recommendation Possible action Issues Responsibility Tasks Timeline G1 Distribution a. hourly distribution of observations where available b. exchange of potentially valuable data not currently exchanged: (i) radar (reflectivity, radial winds) (ii) local-networks (iii) soil temp and moisture (iv) high density precipitation networks (v) wave rider buoy data c. metadata G2 Documentation G3 Timeliness and Completeness (a)Full resolution radiosonde soundings (b) Timely receipt of drifting buoy data? G4 Baseline System G5 Stratospheric observations G6 Ozone sondes G9 AMDAR G13 Ground-based GPS moisture G15 Improvements in marine observations telecommunications G16 Tropical moorings G17 Drifting buoys G18 XBT and Argo floats G20 More profiles in tropics G21 AWS . G22 New systems (a) wind profilers (b) lightning detection systems


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The Coimbatore unit of the Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) has asked the State Government to remove encroachments in forest abutting Coimbatore, survey buildings built near the forest boundary and initiate action wherever there was encroachment.
The party led by State Young Wing Secretary V. Easwaran, District Secretary 'Guhan Mill' Senthil and Madukkurai Union Secretary K.K. Velliangiri organised an awareness rally to lay emphasis on the need for protecting Western Ghats.
Mr. Easwaran said that it was necessary to protect Western Ghats because the ecologically sensitive forest was the water source for the city. But in the name of development all the water channels, rivulets, canals were being closed or encroached for construction. And the Government had failed to act.
Within the forest and near the forest boundary, very much with the knowledge of the Government, people were building education institutions, religious establishments and constructing big structures. But the law enforcement authorities did not take action.
This and other forms of encroachment near the forest had led to increase in human-animal conflict, resulting in loss of lives. This continued because the Government had failed to go into the root cause of the problem to provide a solution.
The rally started at Arivoli Nagar in Kovaipudur, passed through Madukkarai Police Station, Marappalam, Ettimadai, Chavady Pudur, Navakkarai and Walayar.


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