Charting a course for sustainable hydrological and meteorological networks in developing countries

This report explores the root causes of why national meteorological and hydrological systems fall into disrepair—even after being modernized—and to share a visionary approach with recommendations to achieve more sustainable outcomes. Hydrological and meteorological (hydromet) processes shape the natural environment and have a profound impact on how well people live. Floods, droughts, and extreme weather disrupt social and economic development and must be dealt with within the framework of a changing climate.

The report concludes that a key step in building re­silience to natural hazards and climate change is to optimize investments in sustainable meteorological and hydrological observation, with the focus on networks that are built to last and deliver global, national, and local goods. These include adopting appropriate policies and arrangements; mobilizing the financial and human resources; and adopting a whole-of-society approach, which requires collaboration across government and the private sector, and from individuals to international organizations.