Pacific climate experts meet in Rarotonga to improve early warning systems

Meteorological services and media representatives from Fiji, the Cook Islands, Tuvalu, and Tonga are participating in a five-day training program in Rarotonga. The initiative, known as the Polynesian Sub Regional Knowledge Brokers in Climate Services Training, aims to enhance how climate information is communicated to communities to support better decision-making.

Participants include national meteorological and hydrological services, regional media, and development partners. The training focuses on bridging the gap between scientific data and actionable knowledge. Experts noted that while accurate forecasts are essential, the true value lies in effective communication to help sectors and governments respond to climate variability, tropical cyclones, droughts, and marine heatwaves.

Strengthening these links is intended to build regional resilience and protect lives and livelihoods across Polynesia and the wider Pacific.