The Kingdom's leadership in the field of meteorological monitoring and the development of national cadres
The official spokesperson for the National Center for Meteorology, Hussein Al-Qahtani, affirmed that celebrating the Arab Day for Meteorologists and Forecasters represents a significant historical milestone, honoring this vital profession for the first time at the Arab level. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has proven its competence and leadership in the field of meteorological observation, having solidified its position with high professionalism through supporting national talent and developing a comprehensive infrastructure.
Historical context and development of the meteorological system
The profession of weather observer and forecaster is a long-established one, with a history spanning more than seven decades in the Arab region. Historically, the critical need for meteorology arose with the development of air and sea navigation, leading to the establishment of the first stations to provide essential weather readings. Over time, this profession has undergone radical transformations thanks to technological advancements and space technologies, becoming a fundamental pillar upon which countries rely in their strategic planning. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has kept pace with this early development, establishing a robust infrastructure for monitoring and early warning, making it a trusted regional reference and a key supporter of meteorological monitoring systems and decision-making.
The Kingdom's efforts in regulating the field of meteorological monitoring
In its ongoing pursuit of excellence, the Kingdom has dedicated its efforts to advancing the field of meteorology through unprecedented regulatory measures. Al-Qahtani explained that the National Center for Meteorology has launched a comprehensive system for issuing professional licenses to those working in this sector. This meticulous regulation not only improves the quality of outputs but also enhances the professionalism of national talent and elevates their vital roles. These strategic initiatives are fully aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant society and a thriving economy based on qualified national expertise and modern, sustainable technologies.
Local and regional impact on decision-making support
The role of weather observers and forecasters extends beyond simply reading weather conditions; they are crucial in supporting decision-making at all levels. Locally, accurate forecasts play a pivotal role in crisis management, particularly during extreme weather events such as heavy rains and flash floods, directly contributing to protecting lives and property and enhancing community safety. Regionally and internationally, this expertise reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leading nation in sharing accurate climate data with global organizations, thus supporting international efforts to combat climate change.
Developing personnel and keeping pace with the future
Al-Qahtani concluded his remarks by emphasizing that celebrating this occasion significantly contributes to highlighting the importance of the national workforce in this vital sector. Motivating and developing the professional and technical capabilities of these personnel ensures they keep pace with the latest global advancements in meteorology and climate science. Thanks to this ongoing support, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its journey towards achieving environmental sustainability and global leadership, affirming that investing in human capital is the true guarantee for a secure and prosperous future in the meteorology sector.
