World Meteorological Day honors 60 years of climate and weather science progress
March 23 marks two important observances: World Meteorological Day and Hydrometeorological Service Workers' Day. This year's theme highlights the 60th anniversary of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and its role in global safety. The date also honours professionals who track weather patterns and climate data worldwide.
The holiday traces back to March 23, 1950, when the WMO Convention officially came into force. Since then, the organisation has grown to include 193 national hydrometeorological services as full members. Among them, the largest by population are China (around 1.41 billion people), India (about 1.43 billion), and the United States (roughly 341 million).
In Russia, the day holds additional significance. A presidential decree on May 19, 2008, established March 23 as the Day of Hydrometeorological Service Workers. The observance recognises the contributions of meteorologists, hydrologists, and climate scientists in monitoring and forecasting weather conditions.
The annual event underscores the WMO's six decades of work in weather prediction, disaster risk reduction, and climate research. National services across 193 countries continue to support public safety and well-being through accurate data and early warnings. This year's theme reflects the organisation's long-standing commitment to global resilience.
