Meteorological experts from five South American countries recently completed a hands-on training program in Switzerland. This internship aimed to boost climate monitoring and weather forecasting in the Andean region. Participants included specialists from Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, and Peru. They took part in this training from May 4 to May 8, 2026, organized by the Swiss Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology, known as MeteoSwiss.
This initiative is part of the ENANDES+ project, which works to enhance climate services and the technical capabilities of meteorological agencies across the Andes. The project, funded and implemented by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), emphasizes regional cooperation and sharing of knowledge among Andean countries.
During the training, participants learned about advanced meteorological practices and systems used by MeteoSwiss, a leader in European meteorology. They got practical insights into the entire data process, from collection to analysis. This collaboration helps address the unique challenges faced by mountainous regions and strengthens networks between meteorological institutions in South America.
A significant focus of the program was on modern observation systems. Participants learned how to operate the SwissMetNet, Switzerland’s automated weather monitoring system. They received training on topics like sensor technologies and real-time data transmission. Key techniques discussed included standardizing meteorological variables, ensuring that different systems can work together effectively.
Maintaining high-quality data is essential. The internship highlighted procedures for verifying weather observations to remove inconsistencies caused by changes in equipment or locations. Reliable long-term climate data is critical for analyzing trends and preparing for future weather scenarios.
The training also introduced major international meteorological frameworks established by the WMO. Notable systems included the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) and the Global Basic Observing Network (GBON), which set global standards for weather observations. Learning about these frameworks helps participants understand how to better integrate local efforts into a worldwide context.
The Andes region, known for its vulnerability to climate change, faces threats like droughts, flooding, and glacial retreat. Accurate weather forecasts help protect communities that rely on agriculture, hydropower, and effective disaster management. The ENANDES+ project seeks to fortify these climate services to better equip Andean countries for such challenges.
With initiatives like this training, the WMO aims to foster long-lasting regional partnerships. By sharing knowledge and practices, countries can enhance the consistency and reliability of weather information. This collaboration also aids governments in making data-driven decisions to better prepare for extreme weather events.
Looking ahead, the ENANDES+ project continues to promote modernization efforts. Its objectives include improving technical skills, enhancing cooperation among institutions, and expanding the sharing of climate data across the region. These actions will support sustainable development and better adaptation to climate challenges throughout South America.
Overall, the training program not only strengthens immediate meteorological capabilities but also builds a foundation for future resilience in the face of climate variability. As the world continues to grapple with climate change, initiatives like ENANDES+ demonstrate that regional collaboration is vital for overcoming shared challenges.
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World Meteorological Organization, WMO, ENANDES+, MeteoSwiss, Switzerland, Climate Services, Meteorology, Weather Forecasting, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Climate Resilience, Weather Data
