Capacity Development

Around the world, the meteorological, hydrological, and oceanic communities have been moving towards multi-hazard early warning systems that integrate hazard monitoring, forecasting and prediction, disaster risk assessment, communication and preparedness that enables individuals, communities, governments, businesses and others to take timely action to reduce disaster risks in advance of hazardous events. In collaboration with international partners in many global regions, COMET implements customized technology and training solutions to improve forecasting operations, observation networks, forecast and warning dissemination systems, and data access in under-developed nations and small island developing states.

Building a Weather-Ready WORLD

Do Science

The 3D-Printed Automatic Weather Station (3D-PAWS) is a low-cost, low-maintenance surface weather station that measures temperature, pressure, relative humidity, wind speed, wind direction, precipitation, and visible/infrared/UV light. A 3D-PAWS can be manufactured in about a week using locally sourced materials, microsensor technology, low-cost single board computers, and a 3D printer.

Build Expertise & Make a Forecast

COMET develops custom training for international hydrometeorological personnel using locally-relevant weather data tools. COMET is also exploring cloud computing systems for National Meteorological and Hydrological Services to establish their own regional forecast system or for quick response configuration to support pre- or post- forecasts for pre-planning or post-recovery of high impact hydrometeorological events.

Get Early Warnings

Operational forecasting is transitioning towards impact-based forecast and warning services (IBFWS) following the guidelines developed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). In partnership with National Weather Service (NWS), COMET has extended the NWS Weather Ready Nation impact-based program to support National Meteorological and Hydrological Services in adapting IBFWS technology and training for their countries. COMET is contributing to this effort through a variety of initiatives.