RA VI Hydrological Advisers Forum on HydroSOS– Highlights
RA VI Members’ Hydrological Advisers met for the second time in the newly formalized RA VI Forum, as officially recognized by RA VI-19. As discussed in the previous forum session, held in December 2024, the Forum will now meet twice a year to enable regular consultation, knowledge sharing, and collaboration.
This session focused on HydroSOS, a regional priority aimed at improving the monitoring and forecasting of water resources.
Key Outputs:
- HydroSOS process and regional plan were clarified, including implementation pathways and support options.
- Role of HydroSOS National Focal Points (NFPs) explained – Members were reminded to nominate or reconfirm NFPs through the WMO Experts Database, as requested by RA VI-19.
- Member feedback gathered through a quiz – needs identified include a) request for guidance materials and example tools; b) interest in training, especially on indicators and seasonal forecasts; c) support to address integration challenges; d) strong interest in better communication and regional cooperation.
The Forum purpose was fulfilled by involving Members in shaping HydroSOS activities.
This feedback and momentum will guide the next steps, including pilot projects and training workshops in the second half of 2025—both regional and potentially basin-level—as well as the development of resources such as a starter kit and simplified guidance to support NFPs in understanding their roles and advancing national implementation.
Pilot projects are already underway, including in Romania, and other Members are encouraged to initiate similar efforts. Additionally, countries are invited to share data via WHOS, register hydrological station metadata in OSCAR/Surface, and participate in RBON consultations, particularly on flood-related variables.