A new World Meteorological Organization (WMO) project is set to enhance weather, water, ice, and climate information in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. The project aims to develop observation systems, Earth system models, and advocate for improved forecasting services to increase safety and security for individuals living and traveling in these polar areas.
Temperature Trends and Climate Impact
The polar regions experience a rate of temperature increase that is significantly higher than the global average. Climate change is having a direct impact on Indigenous populations, local communities, and those working in these regions. The project addresses both scientific and societal challenges, leveraging heightened international interest due to the rich natural resources and raw materials found in these areas.
Project Overview
- Name: Polar Coupled Analysis and Prediction for Services (PCAPS)
- Duration: 2024 to 2028
- Previous Project: Builds on the Polar Prediction Project (PPP)
- Affiliation: Part of WMO’s World Weather Research Programme (WWRP)
Leadership
- International Coordinator: Dina Abdel-Fattah, Norwegian Meteorological Institute
- Project Leads: Jørn Kristiansen, Development Centre for Weather Forecasting, Norwegian Meteorological Institute; Daniela Liggett, University of Canterbury, New Zealand
Objectives
- Scientific and Societal Focus: The project aims to address scientific and societal issues, enhancing the understanding and forecasting of weather and climate in polar regions.
- User Needs: Understanding and meeting the needs of different user groups is crucial. This involves assessing risk, decision-making, and the value of forecasting.
- Integration of Research: The project will integrate natural science and social research to improve decision-making and risk assessment in polar regions.
Forecasting and Monitoring
- Forecasting Needs: The project will focus on monitoring and predicting weather and climate changes, including alerts for extreme weather events, wind speed, cloud conditions, precipitation, visibility, and sea ice.
- Community Benefits: Providing early warnings helps communities prepare and adapt, minimizing damage to people, property, infrastructure, and ecosystems.
Collaboration and Outreach
- International Programs: PCAPS will enhance weather forecasting competence and improve operational models.
- Engagement: The project will foster collaboration through WWRP’s endorsement, affiliated research projects, and open stakeholder events.
- Future Goals: Results from PCAPS will contribute to the fifth International Polar Year (IPY) in 2032-2033.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the primary goal of the PCAPS project?
- A) To develop new military technologies
- B) To improve weather, water, ice, and climate information in polar regions
- C) To enhance tourism in the Arctic and Antarctic
- D) To promote space exploration
- Who is the international coordinator for the PCAPS project?
- A) Jørn Kristiansen
- B) Daniela Liggett
- C) Dina Abdel-Fattah
- D) An unknown representative
- What initiative does PCAPS build upon?
- A) The Antarctic Exploration Project
- B) The Arctic Research Initiative
- C) The Polar Prediction Project (PPP)
- D) The Global Climate Observation System
- Which organization’s decision in June 2024 does the PCAPS project align with?
- A) United Nations
- B) World Meteorological Organization’s Executive Council
- C) International Polar Year Committee
- D) National Weather Service
- What is a major focus of the PCAPS project in terms of societal impact?
- A) Increasing international trade in polar regions
- B) Understanding the needs of different user groups
- C) Developing new energy resources
- D) Expanding military presence in the Arctic