WISER Programme promotes shift towards impact-based weather forecasting

A training programme on Impact-Based Forecasting, under the Weather and Climate Information Services (WISER) project, was launched this morning at the Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Tower in Ebène. The initiative aims to strengthen meteorological forecasting and improve the delivery and use of weather-related information in Mauritius.

Present at the event were the Acting Director of the Mauritius Meteorological Services (MMS), Dr Prithiviraj Booneeady; the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Consultant, Ms Judith Akoth; and the Resource Person from the South African Weather Service, Ms Vanetia Phakula.

Organised by the MMS, the training is being held from 12 to 16 October 2026. It brings together participants from disaster management agencies, local authorities, emergency services and non-governmental organisations. The WISER project, funded by United Kingdom (UK) International Development and led by UK MET Office, is implemented across Africa to enhance the quality, accessibility and use of weather and climate information services, with the objective of protecting lives, strengthening resilience and supporting sustainable development.

In his address, Dr Booneeady highlighted the growing impact of extreme weather and climate events on communities, infrastructure and livelihoods. Referring to the devastating consequences of floods, including the recent incident in Nepal, he stressed that hazards such as floods, extreme temperatures, cyclones and droughts underscore the need for reliable forecasts that translate into timely and effective action.

He further indicated that weather information must go beyond simply communicating forecasts and warnings and must enable people and institutions to make informed decisions to protect lives and livelihoods. The WISER project, he said, seeks to transform weather and climate services across Africa into more inclusive, equitable, accessible and people-centred systems that are easily understood.

Dr Booneeady also drew attention to the far-reaching consequences of weather-related disasters, which can impose significant costs on infrastructure, public health, security and the wider economy. He noted that the MMS already provides established forecasting and warning services, including information on the potential impacts of hazardous weather events.

The project, he emphasised, will further strengthen the translation of meteorological data into actionable information, enabling communities and relevant institutions to better prepare for and respond to weather-related risks. He thus urged participants to identify priority hazards, strengthen coordination among stakeholders and improve the use of early warnings to support preparedness and climate resilience.

For her part, Ms Akoth commended Mauritius for its commitment to strengthening climate resilience and protecting livelihoods. She called for greater cooperation among vulnerable countries and reaffirmed the WMO's support for efforts to improve weather and climate services.

As for Ms Phakula, she emphasised the importance of reliable and accurate forecasts in supporting preparedness and timely decision-making. She also dwelt on the need for robust weather and climate information databases, in addition to stronger collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that forecasts lead to effective action.

12 October 2026

Email: gis@govmu.org

Website: https://gis.govmu.org

Mobile App: GIS News

Topics: Climate Change