Press Release

www.meteo.md will provide more accurate meteorological forecasts that are linked to European standards in the meteorological field

20 August 2017

Today, the State Hydrometeorological Service of the Republic of Moldova (SHM) launches an optimized version of www.meteo.md, which will provide more accurate weather forecasts, quality and in accordance with the EUMETNET standards - the association that includes 31 weather forecasts services in Europe.

Three components of the website have been updated and upgraded: design, content and functionality have all been aligned with EUMETNET requirements. Thus, accurate data will be available in real time, and navigation will be intuitive and user-friendly.

The EUMETNET system involves early alerts that warn people in a timely manner about severe environmental conditions and provide useful behavioral recommendations. Thus, www.meteo.md will provide to the general public a graphical information system on potential meteorological hazards and the level of vigilance for the European geographical area.

"We have an interactive map on the front page, much more accessible and easy to understand. Now there is a site section with Meteoalarm, which gives tips on extraordinary weather. The entire site, including design and structure, are much more accessible", said Dan Titov, Research and GIS Center, State Hydrometeorological Service.

It will improve the provision of hydrometeorological services and the quality of environmental components, while ensuring the quality of data, including on-line data.

“As we know Moldova was hit by a heavy snowfall last April, that is why I am grateful to participate in this event and that our countries have common interest to fight climate change. And I am happy that the Austrian Development Agency contributed to a successful partnership” said Alexander Karner, Head of Office for Technical Cooperation, Austrian Development Agency.

The new version www.meteo.md relies on a modern, open source database, being integrated with www.meteoalarm.eu. At the same time, data is presented interactively and graphically, in the form of tables or maps. The datasets will cover: the national meteorological, hydrological network and the quality of the environmental components. The portal also offers options for creating newsletters, alerts, reports, certificates, and pre-defined forms.

At the same time, visitors will benefit from an information management module for different groups: individuals; legal entities (state and private structures requiring specific information); civil society; researchers, etc.

“Weather and climate have no borders and the Meteoalarm system is a great example of how a region can come together to address a common challenge. With adequate warnings, people can act to reduce damage and loss of lives from both natural and man-made disasters. With Moldova joining the EUMETNET, decision makers and the public can minimize disaster and climate risks by preventing them and getting prepared. This is a very important breakthrough for Moldova, and an important achievement towards increasing the country’s resilience to climate change”, noted Stefan Liller, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative.

The complete reconstruction and modernization of www.meteo.md took place in partnership with the Central Meteorological and Geodynamic Institute of Austria in the project "Support to the National Planning for Adaptation to Climate Change" Project, implemented with the support of the Austrian Development Agency and financed by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management of Austria. The project is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme in partnership with the Climate Change Office.

UN entities involved in this initiative

UNDP
United Nations Development Programme

Goals we are supporting through this initiative