World Meteorological Organization

The WMO is a specialised agency of the United Nations. Its purpose is to facilitate international cooperation in the establishment of networks of stations for making Meteorological, hydrological and other observations; and to promote the rapid exchange of meteorological information, the standardization of meteorological observations and the uniform publication of observations and statistics. It also furthers the application of meteorology to aviation, shipping, water problems, agriculture and other human activities, promotes operational hydrology and encourages research and training in meteorology.

The World Meteorological Organization coordinates global scientific activity to allow increasingly prompt and accurate weather information and other services for public, private and commercial use, including international airline and shipping industries. WMO's activities contribute to the safety of life and property, the socio-economic development of nations and the protection of the environment.

Within the United Nations, the Geneva-based organization provides the authoritative scientific voice on the state and behaviour of the Earth's atmosphere and climate. Members are grouped in six regional associations (Africa, Asia, South America, North and Central America, South-West Pacific and Europe). Each of them meets every four years to coordinate meteorological and operational hydrological activities within their Region. Visit the WMO web site for comprehensive information.

• Bahamas role in WMO.