World Meteorological Organization

The second session of Regional Association I (Africa) of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) opened at Las Palmas, Canary Islands, on January 21, 1957, under the presidency of Mr. Jacques Ravet. Twenty members, out of a total membership of 22, were represented by delegates. In addition, four WMO members from outside the region, one non-member territory and two international organizations sent observers who took an active part in the meeting. Two working committees were set up, one to deal with codes, telecommunications and maritime meteorology, and one to study observational networks, climatology and related matters, and arid zone problems. The various parts of the international codes subject to regional agreement were revised; the existing system of meteorological telecommunications in the region was revised in the light of the recommendations of a working group; and the networks of stations making surface and upper-air observations were examined in detail. The need for more upper-air observations from oceanic regions was stressed, and for the first time a regional network of ground radar weather observing stations was laid down. Among other items dealt with at the session were climatological practices and the preparation of a climatic atlas for Africa, and the promotion of hydrometeorological and agrometeorological activities within the region. A working group was set up to ensure better coordination of research work on the hydrometeorological problems of the arid zones within the region. The association decided that in its future program, first priority should be given to the implementation of the recommended observing networks and of the decisions concerning telecommunications.