{"id":270447,"date":"2026-03-23T07:03:10","date_gmt":"2026-03-23T11:03:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/?p=270447"},"modified":"2026-03-23T07:03:12","modified_gmt":"2026-03-23T11:03:12","slug":"met-office-calls-for-increased-investment-in-climate-monitoring-systems-pushes-for-resilient-facility","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/met-office-calls-for-increased-investment-in-climate-monitoring-systems-pushes-for-resilient-facility\/","title":{"rendered":"Met Office Calls for Increased Investment in Climate Monitoring Systems, Pushes for Resilient Facility"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"\"<\/a><\/div>
\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n
\n\n\n\n

Met Office Chief Dale Destin Calls for Investment in Climate Monitoring, Resilient Facility<\/strong><\/p>

\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Director of the Meteorological Service Dale Destin has called for sustained investment in climate monitoring systems and the construction of a climate-resilient meteorological facility, warning that stronger infrastructure is essential to maintaining weather services during extreme events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cHowever, we must also recognize that observing systems require sustained investment,\u201d Destin said, adding that \u201cstrengthening our infrastructure, including the development of a climate-resilient, purpose-built meteorological office, is absolutely essential to ensuring continuity of service, especially during extreme events.\u201d<\/p>

\"\"<\/a><\/div>
\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Speaking to mark World Meteorological Day, Destin said meteorological and hydrological services play a critical role in protecting lives and supporting development.<\/p>

\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThis occasion highlights the essential role of meteorological and hydrological services in safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and sustainable development,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He pointed to this year\u2019s theme \u2014 \u201cObserving today. Protecting tomorrow.\u201d \u2014 as central to the work of forecasting agencies.<\/p>

\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThese observations are not merely data. They are life-saving information that enables us to anticipate hazards and take action,\u201d Destin said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Destin also underscored the vulnerability of Antigua and Barbuda to climate-related threats.<\/p>

\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n

\u201cOur nation remains highly vulnerable to hurricanes, flooding, drought, and heat,\u201d he said, noting that \u201ctimely and accurate observations are critical to strengthening our early warning systems and protecting our people and economy.\u201d<\/p>

\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n

He said meteorological services operate as a global public good, supported by international cooperation and data sharing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMeteorological services provide a global public good, built on cooperation and free exchange of data,\u201d Destin said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Locally, the Meteorological Service continues 24-hour operations to deliver forecasts and climate services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThrough our commitment to 24\/7 operations, regional collaborations, and the use of international forecasting guidance, we strive to deliver timely and reliable weather analysis and climate services,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Destin also acknowledged the contribution of staff working behind the scenes to keep the country safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cTheir work, often behind the scenes, plays a vital role in keeping our nation safe,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He ended with a call for continued investment and collaboration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAs we observe this important day, let us reaffirm our commitment to strengthening our systems, enhancing our services, and deepening our partnership\u2026 Because when we observe today, we are indeed protecting tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n