The Hydrometeorological Service and staff from the National Communications Network (NCN) will soon be providing modern weather forecast to the Guyanese public, through support from the UK’s Meteorological Office’s Voluntary Cooperation Programme (VCP).

According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release, the UK Met Office has provided funding for the project through its VCP programme, a section of the UK Public Weather Services, at an estimated cost of 35,000 pounds, including software, hardware and training.

Through the VCP programme, the Hydromet Service has received WeatherEye PC, a complete weather visualization broadcasting system that comprises the latest 3D weather graphics software, meteorological data and global mapping capabilities. The system has been designed for and with meteorologists and according to the Ministry of Agriculture is fast, reliable and easy to use.

Media Designer from the UK Met Office David Robinson during a courtesy call on Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud provided an update on training and other areas relating to national weather forecast.

According to Robinson, attempts will be made to ensure that the forecast satisfies the needs of the Guyanese public, including fisher folk, farmers and other stakeholders in the agriculture sector. The data will also be used to regulate sowing and harvesting activities. Additionally the forecast will also alert persons living in vulnerable areas to take the necessary precautions during rainy weather.

The release said personnel from the Hydromet Service and NCN are currently participating in a three-week training programme which started on April 29. GINA said the Doppler radar system will complement the modern weather forecast.