To commemorate its 50th anniversary on March 25, 2024, the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service (SENAMHI) not only highlighted its history and fundamental contributions to Peru, but also emphasized the vital role of international cooperation and progress in meteorology, hydrology, and climatology research and technology. This milestone gives the opportunity to reflect on SENAMHI’s essential role in protecting and ensuring the well-being of the Peruvian population against climate challenges, strengthening its capacity to forecast and manage natural disaster risks, and adapt to climate change.

A centerpiece of this celebration has been the acknowledgment of the invaluable support from International Cooperation SDC, from the Regional Hub in Lima, and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) through the implementation of the CLIMANDES project from 2011 to 2018 and Swiss contribution to the ENANDES+ project. The ENANDES+ project, initiated in 2023 and scheduled until 2027, represents a collaborative effort to increase climate resilience in six Andean countries, including Peru.  ENANDES+ focuses on improving the capacity to generate and use climate information, strengthening the provision of climate services to vulnerable communities, and fostering regional cooperation on climate change. Through this project, SENAMHI has modernized its infrastructure, trained its staff, and developed climate tools and products that facilitate data-driven decision-making.

The establishment of the NUREX (Regional Nucleus of Experts in Meteorology, Hydrology, and Climatology) has marked another significant milestone for SENAMHI as it promotes regional peer collaboration at Andean level. Thanks to the support of the ENANDES+ project, NUREX emerges as a center of excellence aimed at fostering peer twinning, promoting scientific cooperation, and advancing the closure of gaps between meteorological services in Latin America, with special emphasis on the Andean countries.

The conclusion of SENAMHI’s 50th-anniversary celebrations is also linked to the XXIII Regional Climate Outlook Forum for Western South America, to be held in Lima from April 23 to 25, 2024. This forum represents an essential platform to discuss advances in seasonal and sub-seasonal forecasting, analyze the impacts of climate phenomena such as El Niño, and strengthen technical coordination in the Andean region. Sponsored by the ENANDES+ project, promoted by CIIFEN[1] among other institutions, the forum will bring together climate experts, representatives from National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS), and stakeholders from the region, highlighting SENAMHI’s commitment to improving the adaptation capacity of Andean communities through advanced climate services and coordinated adaptation actions. To learn more about this Forum, click HERE.

The confluence of these events – the anniversary of SENAMHI, Swiss cooperation support through ENANDES+, the launch of NUREX, and the holding of the XXIII Regional Forum – underscores the importance and strategic role of Hydrometeorological Services in countries to increase climate resilience and disaster prevention.

Source: ENANDES+

Useful links:
FS ENANDES+
Web ENANDES+

[1] International Research Centre on the El Niño Phenomenon