PHILIPSBURG:--- Saturday, March 23rdis World Meteorological Day (WMD), which commemorates the coming into force of the Convention establishing the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on 23 March 1950.
Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications (Ministry TEATT) Stuart Johnson on Friday said national Meteorological and Hydrological services make an essential contribution to the safety and wellbeing of society.
The Meteorological Department of Sint Maarten (MDS) falls under Ministry TEATT. It monitors weather conditions 24-7; observes, records, and transmits upper-air data (temperature, humidity, winds etc.); corresponds with regional and international weather stations about various meteorological and climatological phenomena.
MDS also produces and disseminates weather forecasts and warnings to the general public, marine and aviation sectors; issues special reports whenever necessary, such as in the event of heavy rainfall, tropical storms/hurricanes, and or other hazardous weather phenomena.
MDS also manages and maintains meteorological and climatological data on a regular basis (monthly and yearly); and upholds national and international policy in the field of meteorology, climatology and other geophysical fields.
The 2019 theme for WMD is: “The Sun the Earth and the Weather.” The sun delivers the energy that powers all life on Earth. It drives the weather, ocean currents and hydrological cycle. It shapes our moods and daily activities. It is the inspiration for music, photography and art.
According to the WMO, meteorological services monitor the earth system in order to deliver daily weather forecasts and advise policy makers about climate variability and change.
The WMO says, in doing so, the WMO community supports actions that protect lives and property from extreme weather and builds long-term climate resilience.
“I would like to congratulate the management and staff at MDS on WMD for all their hard work carried out on a daily basis in providing accurate weather forecasts for several stakeholders including the Control Tower at SXM Airport and the maritime community.
“This ensures that aircraft pilots have the latest weather information prior to landing or departing the destination, and seafarers have the latest marine forecasts before they set sail. MDS also plays a key role during the annual hurricane season.
“At the start of the hurricane season MDS officials attend a number of radio programs to create awareness and educate about the upcoming hurricane season.
“In the event of a storm or hurricane threat, MDS officials inform the country’s Emergency Disaster Management System about the impending danger who in turn make the necessary national preparations and informs the community on what type of preparations need to be made to protect life and property.
“Their role is essential during the season and I commend them for all they do 365 days of the year,” Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs Stuart Johnson said on Friday.
For the latest weather forecast, weather related publications, visit the MDS website at: www.meteosxm.com