Vanuatu is set to strengthen its weather monitoring and early warning systems after local meteorologists received specialized training to build and maintain low-cost weather stations using innovative American technology.

The week-long workshop, held in Port Vila in July, equipped staff from the Vanuatu Meteorology and Hydrometeorological Service (VMHS) with practical skills to manufacture, install and maintain 3D-Printed Automatic Weather Stations, also known as 3D-PAWS.

Funded by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. National Weather Service, the training was delivered by the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research’s Cooperative Program for Operational Meteorology, Education and Training (COMET).

Unlike conventional weather stations, which are often expensive to purchase and repair, each 3D-PAWS unit can be produced in about one week at an estimated cost of US$500 using locally available materials and American-designed sensors.

The weather stations collect real-time information on temperature, humidity, rainfall, atmospheric pressure and wind conditions, enabling VMHS forecasters to detect approaching storms, floods and other weather hazards more quickly and accurately.

Officials say the improved monitoring network will provide critical time for communities to prepare for severe weather, helping people evacuate, secure property and reduce disaster risks.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Briana Jones said reliable weather information plays an important role in protecting lives and supporting economic activities.

“Reliable weather information helps communities prepare for hazards, supports economic activity, and saves lives,” Jones said.

“This workshop equips VMHS with practical skills and innovative American technology that will strengthen Vanuatu’s forecasting capabilities for years to come.”

The initiative also aims to reduce Vanuatu’s long-term dependence on imported weather equipment by enabling local technicians to build and maintain their own observation network.

Data collected from the stations can also be shared through regional cloud-based platforms, improving weather forecasting and strengthening cooperation among meteorological services across the Pacific.

The training forms part of broader cooperation between the United States and Vanuatu in disaster preparedness and weather forecasting. Since opening its embassy in Port Vila in 2024, the United States has supported efforts to modernize weather forecasting, strengthen early warning systems and expand scientific cooperation with VMGD.