World Records on Weather and Climate Extremes
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Commission for Climatology (CCl) appointed a Rapporteur on climate extremes to maintain an official and impartial list of global weather extremes. Experts from WMO-CCl established procedures to verify current records and certify future extremes, ensuring data transparency and reliability.
Establishment of an Authoritative Database
This effort resulted in the creation of the WMO-CCl database on worldwide weather and climate extremes. Its purpose is to archive and confirm extreme events, including the highest and lowest recorded temperatures and pressures, strongest winds, and greatest precipitation over various time spans.
Scope of Records
- Highest and lowest temperatures and pressures globally
- Strongest recorded winds
- Maximum precipitation over different durations
- Records of the world’s most destructive storms, hurricanes, and tornadoes
Metadata and Documentation
The archive strives to include relevant metadata for each extreme event, such as the date, location, measuring instruments used, and other important details that provide context and validate the record.
Access to the Database
The database is hosted by Arizona State University (ASU) in the United States and is available to the public through a dedicated WMO-CCl/ASU website.
«Global surface temperature data sets World Data Centres»
Author’s summary: The WMO-CCl database serves as a trusted global archive verifying extreme weather records, supported by detailed metadata to enhance scientific and public understanding.