SOFF ACTION REPORT 2026
DELIVERING DATA JUSTICE
From protecting lives to powering economies, the world depends on essential weather and climate observations. Yet not every country has the resources to generate and internationally share them. Closing these gaps is a matter of data justice.
This report explores how SOFF is supporting countries close critical observation gaps, strengthen national capacities and sustain the international exchange of data that benefits us all.
FOREWORD
Every country should have the means to generate and share essential weather and climate observations, and benefit from the information they help produce. Discover the focus of this year's report and explore SOFF's milestones in 2026.
CHAPTER 1 - THE VALUE OF DATA
Basic weather and climate data help us prepare for extreme weather, make informed business decisions and manage risks with greater confidence. Discover how better observations contribute to safer communities and stronger economies.
In this chapter
- Predicting weather extremes: Extreme Heat |Natural Disasters | Wildfires
- Powering economies: Agriculture |Transport | Insurance
CHAPTER 2 - SCIENCE MAKES THE CASE
Science demonstrates that investing in weather and climate observations improves forecasts. New research shows how closing basic data gaps in developing countries can improve weather predictions days ahead and thousands of kilometres away, why AI forecasting still depends on surface and upper-air observations, and what it takes to ensure these observations can be trusted.
CHAPTER 3 - ACTION
Closing basic observation gaps takes more than installing equipment. Across the SOFF portfolio, countries are identifying their needs, investing in infrastructure and capacity, and working towards sustained international data sharing.
CHAPTER 4 - ENGAGED COMMUNITY
Closing weather and climate data gaps is a collective effort. National Meteorological and Hydrological Services lead the way, supported by Peer Advisors and Implementing Entities. Regional partnerships bring together expertise, resources and institutions to strengthen observations.
CHAPTER 5 - FINANCING A GLOBAL PUBLIC GOOD
Closing global weather and climate observation gaps requires sustained investment and new sources of financing. Discover how governments, philanthropies, businesses and investors can contribute to SOFF through direct grants or contributions through a new innovative finance mechanism – the SOFF Financing Platform.
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