Uganda Boosts Weather Warning Capabilities with SmartMet Alert System
Uganda is set to bolster its weather warning capabilities with the introduction of the SmartMet Alert system. This move comes following a visit by experts from the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) and the Eastern Africa Severe Weather Forecasting Programme (SWFP) regional workshop in Entebbe.
The SmartMet Alert system, developed by DMS and FMI, is designed to automate weather warning generation. It defines hazard types, district coverage, warning thresholds, and public advisories, ensuring a comprehensive and efficient warning framework. The system also integrates the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP), enabling multi-channel dissemination and enhancing the reach and impact of alerts.
The installation and staff training for this system are planned for early 2026, with the Department of Meteorological Services (DMS) and FMI collaborating on the initiative. The system will be configured and localized to align with Uganda's specific warning definitions, ensuring its effectiveness in the local context. Notably, the SmartMet Alert system is partly open-source and license-free, making it a cost-effective and adaptable solution.
Upon operation, Uganda will enhance its early warning capacity and join the global community of CAP users. This upgrade is part of the WMO and FMI's CREWS East Africa project, aiming to improve operational weather warning systems in the region. The FMI experts' visit in June 2025 marked the first step in initiating the implementation of the SmartMet Alert system, paving the way for improved weather preparedness in Uganda.
