World Meteorological Organization WMO

WMO is the United Nations system's leading authority on the state and behaviour of the Earth's atmosphere, its interaction with the land and oceans, the weather and climate it produces and the resulting distribution of water resources.

Given that weather, climate and the water cycle know no national boundaries, international cooperation on a global scale is essential for the development of meteorology and operational hydrology and for the benefits to be derived from their applications. WMO provides the framework for such international cooperation for its 193 Member States and Territories.

WMO's mandate covers the areas of meteorology (weather and climate), operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences. WMO plays a strong role in promoting human security and well-being by fostering cooperation among the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs) of its Members and advancing the application of meteorology and hydrology in many social and economic areas.

WMO regulates and promotes the free and unrestricted exchange of data and information, products and services in real time or near real time. This is essential for applications related to social safety and security, social and economic welfare, and environmental protection. WMO standards and policies contribute to the development of policies in these areas at national and regional levels.

The Organization plays a leading role in international affairs such as monitoring and protecting climate and environment. WMO, in collaboration with other UN agencies and NMHSs, supports the implementation of the UNFCCC and several environmental conventions and helps to provide advice and assessments to governments on related matters. These activities help to ensure sustainable development and well-being of countries.