World Meteorological Organization

The advances in Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) in the last decades have been tremendous thanks to more, and better assimilated, observations, higher computing power and progress in our understanding of dynamics and physics. These advances, which have led to increasingly skilful weather forecasting, will become even more relevant in the future. Consequently, the emphasis in operational meteorology, hydrology, oceanography and climatology has shifted towards the implementation of increasingly sophisticated and diverse numerical models and applications in order to serve an ever-increasing variety of users. Operational Numerical Weather Prediction systems generally provide an accurate indication of developing weather events from hours to days ahead. They are, therefore, one of the most relevant components of routine and severe weather forecasting and warnings at National Meteorological and Hydrological Services.

However, the weather forecasting capability among these National Services in varies enormously. The more advanced are making use of the progress in Numerical Weather Prediction, but those in the developing and least developed countries have seen little advancement due to limited budgets and reduced capabilities and the gap is increasing. The Global Data-Processing and Forecasting System(GDPFS) encompasses all systems operated by Members (including those jointly coordinated with other international organizations such as ICAO) and enables them to make use of the advances in Numerical Weather Prediction by providing a framework for sharing data related to operational meteorology, hydrology, oceanography and climatology. The main support for the exchange and delivery of these data is the WMO Information System (WIS). One of the key benefits of the  WMO Information System is the expansion of the range of centres that can connect to the system, increasing the range of Global Data-Processing and Forecasting System applications.