Servicio Meteorológico Nacional: Argentina's Pillar of Weather and Climate Science
The Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN) is the official government agency responsible for observing, understanding, and predicting weather and climate patterns across Argentina and its surrounding maritime territories. Operating under the Ministry of Defense, the SMN provides essential data—including radar images, satellite imagery, and graphs for temperature, rainfall, and ozone levels—to protect the population and support sustainable economic growth.
Beyond domestic forecasting, the SMN serves as Argentina's representative in international meteorological circles, ensuring the nation remains at the forefront of atmospheric science.
Key Facts
- Founded: October 4, 1872 (The first meteorological organization in South America).
- Global Standing: Third oldest meteorological agency in the world, following Hungary and the United States.
- Jurisdiction: Argentina, including territories in Antarctica.
- Current Leadership: Directed by Alejandro de la Torre.
- Global Role: Operates the Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC).
A Legacy of Atmospheric Observation
Established by Federal Law №559 during the presidency of Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, the agency began as the Oficina Meteorológica Argentina (OMA). Under its first director, Dr. Benjamin Apthorp Gould, the OMA quickly expanded, establishing a national network of meteorological and geomagnetic observations by 1873.
The agency's early years were marked by international collaboration. In 1873, the OMA attended the International Meteorological Congress in Vienna, which led to the creation of the International Meteorological Organization. By 1874, the agency began recording solar radiation in Córdoba, and by 1875, it initiated the first international exchange of weather data with Chile.
Evolution of Governance
Over the decades, the agency underwent several name changes and shifts in jurisdiction. It transitioned from the Ministry of Justice to the Ministry of Agriculture, and later to the Secretary of Aeronautics. In 1945, it officially adopted the name Servicio Meteorológico Nacional.
For 40 years, starting during the coup by Juan Carlos Onganía, the SMN was managed by the Argentine Air Force. This changed on January 1, 2007, when it returned to civilian control. Today, it operates as a decentralized agency under the Ministry of Defense, granting it independent legal status and financial control.
Infrastructure and Global Reach
The SMN maintains a robust network of 125 weather stations spanning Argentina and Antarctica. These facilities do more than track rain and wind; they utilize specialized observatories to measure atmospheric parameters—physical properties of the atmosphere—such as ozone levels and ultraviolet radiation.
Antarctic Operations
Argentina's meteorological presence in Antarctica dates back to 1904 with the opening of an observatory at the Orcadas Base on Laurie Island. Currently, the SMN manages six synoptic weather stations (stations that provide a general overview of weather conditions over a large area) across the following bases:
- Carlini Base
- San Martín Base
- Belgrano II Base
- Esperanza Base
- Marambio Base
- Orcadas Base
Innovation: The Prevenir Project
To combat the threat of urban flooding, the SMN is collaborating with Japanese entities on the Prevenir project. This initiative integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop early warning systems, specifically targeting vulnerable areas in Buenos Aires and Córdoba.
Led by researchers including Juan Jose Ruiz, the project utilizes high-performance supercomputers—such as Clementina XXI and Fugaku—to analyze precipitation dynamics. By leveraging radar data, the project aims to improve the accuracy of flood alerts and increase public awareness regarding disaster risk prevention.
Aviation Safety and the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre
The SMN plays a critical role in global aviation safety as one of the world's nine Volcanic Ash Advisory Centres (VAAC). The Buenos Aires VAAC is responsible for monitoring volcanic ash movement from longitudes 90°W to 10°W and latitudes 10°S to 90°S.
The responsibilities of the Buenos Aires VAAC include:
- Analyzing geostationary and polar orbit satellite data to detect ash clouds.
- Running computer simulations to predict the trajectory of volcanic ash.
- Issuing advisories every six hours (at minimum) to Meteorological Watch Offices (MWO), Area Control Centres, and Flight Information Regions.
- Coordinating with other VAACs and World Area Forecast Centres (WAFC) to ensure international flight safety.
Agency Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | October 4, 1872 |
| Headquarters | Av. Dorrego 4019, Buenos Aires |
| Parent Agency | Ministry of Defense |
| Network Size | 125 weather stations |
| International Affiliation | World Meteorological Organization (since 1951) |
| Specialized Role | Buenos Aires VAAC (Volcanic Ash Monitoring) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional?
Founded on October 4, 1872, the SMN is 153 years old, making it the first meteorological organization in South America and the third oldest in the world.
What is the purpose of the Prevenir project?
The Prevenir project is a collaborative effort between Argentina and Japan that uses AI and supercomputers to create early warning systems for urban floods in cities like Buenos Aires and Córdoba.
What does the Buenos Aires VAAC do?
The Buenos Aires Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre monitors volcanic eruptions using satellites and simulations to predict the movement of ash clouds, providing critical safety data to the aviation industry.
Does the SMN operate in Antarctica?
Yes, the SMN maintains six synoptic weather stations across various Argentine Antarctic bases, including the historic Orcadas Base, which has been operational since 1904.
Who currently directs the SMN?
The agency is currently led by Director Alejandro de la Torre.