TIMELY BOOST FOR CYCLONE SEASON: SOLOMON ISLANDS ON TRACK TO LAUNCH COUNTRY’S FIRST WEATHER RADAR SYSTEM.

HONIARA, Solomon Islands — Preparations to install and launch the Solomon Islands’ first weather radar system are progressing strictly on schedule. The milestone project comes at a vital time as the nation enters the tropical cyclone season, delivering a crucial boost to national early warning services and severe weather monitoring. The equipment will be operational once launching is completed on the 4^th of December 2026.

A project valued at SBD $20 million, the state-of-the-art radar system represents the fulfillment of a long-term national objective that was previously unattainable due to high equipment costs. Once fully commissioned, the radar data will become central to the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) Early Warning System. The C Band Radar System has the capacity to scan up to 200 +-kilometers range that enables SIMS meteorologists and forecasters to accurately track storm systems, localized thunderstorms, estimate rainfall intensity and locations, storm sizes, and tropical cyclones.

This establishment of this cutting-edge observation system also implicates having the capability to establish Flood Early Warning System, nationally.

The important development came as coastal and inland communities are facing high risks from tropical cyclones, severe winds, torrential rainfall, flash flooding, and coastal storm surges. The radar’s real-time scanning capability will significantly strengthen the capacity of national authorities (SIMS) to issue timely warnings, protecting lives, infrastructure, aviation weather, and maritime transport.

This landmark achievement is made through the Pacific led Weather Ready Pacific (WRP) Program, a regional initiative endorsed by the Pacific Meteorological Council (PMC), coordinated by SPREP to strengthen meteorological services and multi-hazard early warning system in the region. The radar project is funded by the New Zealand Government.

Since year 2024, the New Zealand Met Office is being providing technical and engineering support as the Implementing Entity, supported by SIMS Technical Team on ground, whereas SPREP plays important co-ordinating role.