Solomon Islands Commemorates World Meteorological Day 2026, Emphasizing “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow”
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS), under the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM), joined the global community to celebrate World Meteorological Day 2026. This year’s theme, “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow,” highlights the critical role of reliable weather, climate, and ocean observations in safeguarding lives, property, and livelihoods against the increasing impacts of climate change.
As a nation highly exposed to tropical cyclones, rising sea levels, and tsunamis, the Solomon Islands relies heavily on its meteorological observation network. During the commemorative event, officials underscored that accurate, timely data is the foundation for early warning systems that protect coastal communities and support the national economy.
In his welcome remarks Director of the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service Mr Alick Haruhiru said SIMS currently operates seven manned meteorological stations across the country—Honiara, Henderson, Auki, Munda, Taro, Lata, and Tingoa—where meteorological observations are recorded every three hours. Additionally, in an effort to have a representative observation network, automatic weather stations, hydrometric stations, and automatic rain gauges are installed in remote locations in the country where data are automatically recorded. SIMS is also recording data through a dedicated team of trained volunteers.
Meanwhile the Permanent Secretary for MECDM said to further enhance these capabilities, several major initiatives are underway.
These include the AMOS-RD Project, Funded by the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) and implemented by UNDP and SIMS, this project aims to strengthen the national observation network.
He highlighted that infrastructure upgrade is also underway with the commencement of work for a new weather radar system. The weather radar will significantly improve real-time monitoring of severe weather, alongside the establishment of three new upper-air observation stations.
In terms of regional collaboration the PS said projects such as the SOLKAS Project funded by the Green Climate Fund and the Weather Ready Pacific Program are bolstering community resilience and maritime safety.
The celebration also marked significant progress in human resource development. Through the AMOS-RD project, ten newly recruited staff members from SIMS have begun an intensive six-month training program. These observers and technicians represent the future of meteorological services in the Solomon Islands, gaining the skills necessary to operate advanced equipment and interpret critical data.
Despite these advancements, maintaining a robust observation network remains a challenge. Issues such as high maintenance costs, logistical hurdles, and the need for specialized technical skills require ongoing commitment from the government and its development partners.
“Investment in observation today means building community resilience against upcoming extreme events,” officials stated during the event. “The decisions we make today to safeguard people depend on accurate, timely, and reliable observations”.
The event concluded with an acknowledgment of the vital work performed by meteorologists—often behind the scenes and in hazardous conditions—to ensure the safety and well-being of all Solomon Islanders.
The SIMS is a division within the MECDM responsible for providing essential meteorological and hydrological services to the Solomon Islands. Its mission is to safeguard the environment and support national socio-economic development through accurate weather forecasting and climate monitoring.
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