RA VI Hydrological Adviser Forum – Highlights
The RA VI Hydrological Adviser Forum, chaired by the RA VI Hydrological Adviser, brought together 23 Member representatives and 14 Secretariat officers to review ongoing hydrological developments and identify priorities for future action.
Members discussed the development of core and recommended hydrological datasets under the WMO Unified Data Policy, aimed at establishing a harmonized global framework for data exchange. The proposed datasets cover essential variables such as streamflow, groundwater, snow, soil moisture, and precipitation, with extended parameters including sediment transport, water quality, and ice characteristics. Members highlighted the need to balance global standardization with national capacities and data governance considerations. The proposal will be further refined ahead of INFCOM-4.
The Forum also reviewed the draft Basic Instruction Package for Hydrology (BIP-H and BIP-HT), which updates entry-level competency frameworks for hydrologists and technicians for the first time since 2003. Developed through a global survey of 82 countries, it identifies key training areas including hydrological monitoring, modelling, ICT, forecasting, and early warning systems. Members feedback was expected by 30 April 2026.
Updates were provided on the Hydrological Coordination Panel, INFCOM and SERCOM activities, and the WMO Operational Hydrology Research Strategy. Taking into account its pending endorsement by EC-80 and CG-20, the strategy, structured around six pillars (data, analysis, modelling, forecasting, digital innovation, and co-creation), will be implemented in the Region from 2026, with a focus on strengthening links between research and operations.
Key operational priorities reaffirmed by Members include flood forecasting and early warning systems, drought monitoring, modernization of hydrological networks, and increased use of digital technologies and AI. Capacity development needs were emphasized, particularly in forecasting, modelling, and digital hydrology, alongside the importance of case studies and knowledge exchange.
Members also reviewed progress on the RA VI Regional Statement on Water Resources and were invited to provide input on indicators, case studies, and good practices related to floods, droughts, and water scarcity impacts.
Discussions included HydroSOS implementation and preparations for upcoming regional events, including a workshop and the RA VI Hydrological Assembly tentatively scheduled for September 2026 in Bucharest.
Preliminary survey results confirmed strong regional alignment on priorities, particularly strengthening early warning systems, improving flood and drought monitoring, and advancing digital hydrology. Key challenges include staffing limitations, resource constraints, and data gaps.
The Chair concluded that there is strong convergence on priorities and stressed continued Member engagement in ongoing WMO hydrological initiatives.