Tonga has aired its inaugural televised weather forecast, marking a significant step in public safety communication.
The Tonga Meteorological Service (TMS) presented the broadcast, supported by the UK Met Office through the Voluntary Cooperation Programme. This initiative aims to enhance the accessibility of weather warnings, crucial for a nation frequently impacted by tropical cyclones and droughts.
Met Office staff assisted in establishing a new media studio and provided comprehensive training in advanced graphics technology. Steve Fallon, Broadcast Media Technical Director at the Met Office, stated, “We started planning the project back in early 2024, developing the weather graphics and testing the studio equipment in the UK before shipping it over.
“Once in Tonga, we helped to transform a completely blank canvas into a fully-functioning television studio, as well as providing all the necessary technical training, enabling the Tonga Meteorological Service to design their own weather graphics, effectively operate the studio, and deliver broadcast quality content in just seven days.”
Laitia Fifita, Director of TMS, highlighted the broadcast’s significance:
“The TV Weather Services, with its new studio, enhanced forecasting methods, and visually engaging graphics, significantly elevates meteorological services in Tonga by providing timely and accurate weather information to the people of Tonga.”
This development aligns with the Pacific Resilience Programme’s objectives, aiming to strengthen early warning systems across the region.
The Met Office continues to support TMS remotely, with plans to develop additional graphics for marine forecasting and visual warnings.
