UN Warns of Growing Threat to Weather, Climate Monitoring Systems from Radio Interference

UN Warns of Growing Threat to Weather, Climate Monitoring Systems from Radio Interference
——————————
The United Nations has called for stronger protection of radio frequencies used by weather forecasting, early warning systems, climate monitoring, and water management, warning that interference from expanding wireless and satellite technologies could threaten critical environmental data.

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said that many meteorological sensors depend on detecting extremely weak natural signals, making them highly vulnerable to disruption. Interference could reduce the accuracy and availability of data used for weather forecasts, disaster alerts, and climate research.

The agencies highlighted that weather radars, lightning detection systems, aviation and maritime monitoring, and hydrological observation networks all rely on protected frequency bands to operate effectively.

During an expert meeting in Geneva, UN officials urged governments and regulators to safeguard these frequencies as a matter of public safety. They warned that protecting interference-free access is essential for accurate forecasts, timely emergency warnings, and communities’ ability to prepare for extreme weather events.

The call comes as demand for radio spectrum continues to increase due to the expansion of commercial wireless networks and satellite services worldwide.