23 March 2012: The 2012 edition of World Meteorological Day was organized by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) around the theme “Powering our future with weather, climate and water.” The Day commemorates the entry into force of the WMO Convention, which took place on 23 March 1950.

The 2012 World Meteorological Day focuses on the benefits of weather, climate and water information for different socioeconomic sectors. It builds on WMO’s ongoing efforts to stress the role of weather, climate and water information, such as early-warning systems for least-developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing States (SIDS). The 2012 theme also provides an opportunity to promote National Meteorological and Hydrological Services, and the WMO community at large.

In a message to mark the Day, Michel Jarraud, WMO Secretary-General, underscored the importance of investment in National Meteorological and Hydrological Services to “meet future challenges associated with our rapidly changing climate.” He called for strengthening “the international knowledge base and ensure that the information reaches all socio-economic levels.”

As part of the World Meteorological Day, the WMO also released its Annual Statement on the Status of the Global Climate 2011. [WMO Press Release] [Message by Secretary-General of WMO] [UN Press Release] [IISD RS Story on the Annual Statement on the Status of the Global Climate 2011]