Bahrain Leads the Gulf in Meteorological Innovation with New Satellite System

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, His Excellency Dr. Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to enhancing the meteorological system through high-quality technologies aimed at improving the accuracy of weather forecasts and climate predictions. This initiative will also bolster the safety of air and maritime navigation, benefiting critical sectors under the comprehensive development journey led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, may God protect him, and under the continuous follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him.

On the occasion of the completion of the Ministry's Meteorological Directorate in installing third-generation satellite image and data reception devices, the Minister expressed pride that Bahrain is the second country in the Gulf region to implement this advanced system for weather monitoring. This advancement is key to addressing various climate challenges with precision, efficiency, and high-quality performance.

Minister Sheikh Abdullah further emphasized that the implementation of this system aligns with the ministry’s commitment to developing the meteorological infrastructure in accordance with the latest technologies and international standards. This move is in line with the government’s strategic vision, led by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and supports Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030.

Mr. Khalid Hussein Yaseen, Director of the Meteorological Directorate at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, explained that the new generation of satellites is equipped with advanced capabilities for capturing high-resolution images and analyzing weather conditions with a precision of up to 0.5 kilometers. Data will be updated every 15 minutes.

He confirmed that this step places Bahrain at the forefront of regional nations benefiting from the latest technologies to enhance disaster management efficiency and improve predictions of hazardous weather conditions, such as cumulonimbus clouds, sandstorms, and dense fog. This system will enable early warnings that contribute to preventive measures for protecting lives and property, while enhancing public safety and ensuring the security of air and maritime navigation.

Additionally, the Meteorological Operations Center has started receiving supplementary data from other satellites covering the American regions, the Atlantic Ocean, Asia, and the Pacific Ocean. This expanded coverage will provide more precise and detailed weather and climate data, supporting rapid response efforts to changing weather conditions and contributing to the safety of air and maritime navigation.