Today, March 23, we join the global community in celebrating World Meteorological Day,
under the theme “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow.”
This annual observance commemorates the establishment of the World Meteorological
Organization and highlights the vital role that meteorological services play in protecting lives,
supporting economies, and strengthening resilience around the world.
The 2026 theme highlights the importance of weather and climate observations. Whether taken
from satellites, weather balloons, ocean buoys, or ground-based instruments, these
observations form the foundation of modern forecasting and early warning systems. They allow
governments, businesses, and communities to anticipate extreme weather, reduce risks, and
make informed decisions that protect lives, infrastructure, and economic activity.
For St. Maarten, these services are very important. As a small island located along the hurricane
belt, we face risks from tropical storms, hurricanes, heavy rainfall, extreme heat, and coastal
hazards. Reliable weather information is therefore not only essential for public safety, but also
for protecting key economic sectors such as tourism, aviation, maritime transport, and national
infrastructure.
In support of the global Early Warnings for All initiative, the Meteorological Department of
St. Maarten continues to strengthen its observation and forecasting capabilities. Our goal is to
ensure that by 2027, every person on the island is protected by effective early warning systems.
Early warnings remain one of the most powerful tools for reducing disaster risk, protecting
national investments, and minimizing economic losses caused by severe weather events.
At present, we rely primarily on data collected at Princess Juliana International Airport. We
are aware that weather conditions can vary across the island. To address this gap, the
Meteorological Department of St. Maarten has begun the process to expand our national
weather observation network across the island. This includes the installation of:
- Five new Automatic Weather Stations
- Two additional rain gauges
- Three air quality monitors
- One sea level gauge
This investment represents an important step toward closing weather and climate data gaps
and strengthening St. Maarten’s national observation capacity. By expanding the observation
network across the island, the Meteorological Department will provide data that will enhance
global models and forecasting capabilities, resulting in a more robust and effective early
warning system.
Equally important are the economic benefits this improved monitoring network will provide.
Tourism, one of the pillars of St. Maarten’s economy, depends heavily on reliable weather
information. More comprehensive island-wide data will help hotels, marine operators, cruise-
related services, and tourism businesses plan operations more effectively and reduce weather-
related disruptions.
Aviation operations at Princess Juliana International Airport will benefit from improved
weather monitoring and forecasting, supporting safer and more efficient flight operations and
helping maintain the reliability of one of the Caribbean’s key aviation hubs.
Enhanced weather data will also support the transport and maritime sectors, allowing port
operations, marine operators, and fishermen to better plan their activities and manage weather-
related risks.
For infrastructure development and construction, improved climate and weather data will help
guide the design of stronger, more climate-resilient buildings, roads, and telecommunications
infrastructure, protecting national investments and supporting sustainable economic
development.
The insurance sector will also benefit from richer historical weather data across the island,
improving risk assessments and financial planning for weather-related hazards.
In addition, the introduction of air quality monitoring stations represents an important
advancement for environmental monitoring and public health. Saharan dust events, local
emissions, and post-storm conditions can affect air quality and respiratory health. Real-time
monitoring will help provide timely public guidance and improve understanding of air quality
conditions across our communities.
Finally, the installation of our first sea level gauge will strengthen our ability to monitor coastal
hazards. As global sea levels continue to rise and storm surge risks increase, continuous sea-
level observations will support coastal management, guide responsible development, and
inform long-term planning for climate resilience.
On this World Meteorological Day, we recognize and thank the dedicated meteorologists,
technicians, observers, and support staff of the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten. Their
continuous monitoring of our atmosphere and their commitment to public service ensure that
our nation receives timely forecasts and warnings that help protect lives and support our
economy every single day.
The Government of Sint Maarten remains committed to strengthening national resilience,
protecting our economy, and investing in the systems that safeguard our people and our future.
Together, through science, observation, and cooperation, we are building a stronger and more
resilient St. Maarten.
By observing today, we are protecting tomorrow.
Happy World Meteorological Day.