Representatives of Belhydromet took advanced training courses under the program "Modern Challenges in Monitoring Chemical Composition and Atmospheric Pollution." The training was held at the A.I.Voeikov Main Geophysical Observatory (Roshydromet, Russian Federation) – one of the leading scientific centers in the field of hydrometeorology. The in-person format of the courses included representatives of Belhydromet, the Federal State Budgetary Institution "Department for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring" of Roshydromet, specialized specialists and experts from the Roshydromet department for the Northwestern Federal District, as well as experts from industrial enterprises. Remotely, more than 50 participants from  the Federal State Budgetary Institution "Department for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring joined the thematic lectures via videoconference. The training program was intensive and covered a wide range of relevant topics: - monitoring the state, chemical composition and pollution levels of ambient air; - organizing observations within the state observation network; - analyzing and assessing air quality in urban agglomerations; - methods for short-term forecasting and modeling of atmospheric air pollution; - overview of current changes in regulatory legal acts in the field of atmospheric air pollution monitoring. A significant part of the courses was a roundtable where participants discussed practical issues, exchanged work experiences, and outlined ways to address current challenges in the development of the monitoring system. Special attention was paid to improving the state observation network and implementing modern methods for ambient air quality control. The acquired knowledge and skills will allow Belhydromet specialists to improve the accuracy and efficiency of assessments of ambient air quality on the territory of the Republic of Belarus, as well as to more effectively apply advanced forecasting and modeling methods. International cooperation and exchange of experience with colleagues from the Russian Federation and other countries contribute to strengthening the scientific and methodological base and improving the quality of hydrometeorological services in the republic. Belhydromet expresses its gratitude to the A.I.Voeikov Main Geophysical Observatory for the high level of course organization and the substantive program, which meets the contemporary challenges in the field of environmental monitoring.

Overview of river water regime in May In May, water level fluctuations were observed in the country's rivers, with a tendency to rise in the middle of the month due to precipitation. Floodplain inundation occurred on the Dnieper River near the towns of Zhlobin, Rechitsa, Loyev, on the Viliya River near the agrotown of Steshitsy, on the Sozh River tributary — the Iput River, and on the Berezina River tributary — the Bobr River. Unfavourable conditions for river transport operation were observed on the Neman River near Grodno, and on the Sozh River near the towns of Krichev and Slavgorod. On some tributaries of the Neman, Western Bug, and Pripyat rivers, the minimum water levels in May fell below the long-term monthly minimum records. The water content of the Viliya, Berezina, and Sozh rivers is close to the average for this time of year, while the water content of the Western Dvina, Neman, Dnieper, and Pripyat rivers is below normal. As of the forecast date, a decline in water levels with a daily intensity of 1–16 cm is observed in the country's rivers. A slight increase (1–6 cm per day) is recorded only on the Neman River near Grodno and on some small rivers. On the Viliya River near the agrotown of Steshitsy and on the Iput River (tributary of the Sozh) near the town of Dobrush, water levels exceed floodplain inundation thresholds. On the Neman River near Grodno, and on the Sozh River near Krichev and Slavgorod, water levels are below the navigation-limiting marks. Forecast information on minimum water levels in June Minimum water levels in June are expected to be below the long-term average on most rivers, and close to the lowest recorded levels for the observation period on the Pripyat River. When using the information a reference to Belhydromet is obligatory

The first day of summer in Belarus marks an important date. Since 1950, International Children's Protection Day has been traditionally celebrated, with the decision to establish it made in 1949 in Paris. Later, the UN supported the initiative, enshrining the rights of minors in the Declaration (1959) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989). The symbolism of the holiday is reflected in its flag: on a green background, representing harmony and growth, figures of different colors are arranged around the symbol of the Earth — our common home. This serves as a reminder that every child, regardless of origin, has the right to a happy childhood. The main purpose of this date is to emphasize the importance of the family as the foundation of society. The responsibility for raising and protecting children lies primarily with parents. Their task is to give the child a childhood filled with happiness and understanding, for only a family environment warmed by love allows a person to develop fully. In the Republic of Belarus, children's rights are protected at the highest level: by the Constitution, the Code on Marriage and the Family, and the Law "On the Rights of the Child." The coordination of this work is carried out by the National Commission on the Rights of the Child. We congratulate everyone on Children's Protection Day! May children remain children for as long as possible — carefree, cheerful, and joyful. We wish that every child be healthy and surrounded by parental care. May the sky above their heads always be peaceful, and may every new day be kind and interesting. To parents, we wish long life, strong health, and endless patience; eternal love for your children and pride in them at any age; sincere joy in your hearts and prosperity in your homes; family well-being and bright parental hopes. May on this day, all who are called mother and father be warmed by tender embraces and words of love and gratitude! 

On May 29, the annual civil defense medical unit competition took place in the Pervomaisky District of the city of Minsk. The Belhydromet team proudly took part in this important event, demonstrating their readiness to act in extreme situations. This year, 17 district medical squads showcased their professional skills and knowledge in scenarios as realistic as possible. The competition included testing knowledge and abilities in providing first aid for various types of injuries and burns, performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), as well as skills in evacuating casualties. Each stage required participants to exercise maximum concentration, coordinated action, and in-depth knowledge in the field of emergency medical care. The Belhydromet team secured a respectable 7th place. This result is clear evidence not only of the individual professionalism of each team member but also of their ability to work cohesively as a group. Active preparation by the participants, as well as their unwavering dedication to the cause, played a significant role in achieving such a strong result. Special mention should be made of the activists from the primary trade union organization, who, in their free time away from their main work duties, tirelessly master first aid techniques and learn how to act competently in emergency situations. The Belhydromet team congratulates its squad on the achieved result! We thank our colleagues for their demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and active participation in such meaningful events!

In May 2026, the Slavgorod Meteorological Station of the Mogilevoblhydromet Branch of Belhydromet marked a significant date  its 100th anniversary . Exactly one century ago, the first meteorological observations were initiated here, laying the foundation for the natural history chronicle of this region. A ceremonial event dedicated to this centennial milestone took place on May 29 at the Rodina cinema. The celebration brought together station veterans, current employees, the Head of Belhydromet Siarhei Khilman , the management of the Mogilevoblhydromet Branch, and other distinguished guests. An exhibition of meteorological instruments was presented at the event, showcasing the evolution of technology – from rare historical exhibits to modern equipment. The Slavgorod Meteorological Station has endured many trials, including the war years, but despite interruptions and destruction, it has always returned to its service. This has been made possible by the dedicated work of its people – the institution's greatest asset. The unique data stored at the station, including absolute temperature records and a high frequency of squalls, attest to the complexity and importance of the meteorologists' work. The official program was attended by Maxim Potapenko, Chairman of the Slavgorod District Executive Committee; Andrey Sidoruk, Deputy Chairman of the Regional Committee for Natural Resources and Environmental Protection; Svetlana Yezerkaya, Chairman of the Slavgorod District Council of Deputies; Mikhail Yermolenko, Deputy of the Mogilev Regional Council of Deputies; Ivan Trambachev, Chairman of the Mogilev Regional Trade Union Organization; and Dmitry Kotov, First Deputy Head of the Slavgorod District Emergency Situations Department. The celebration program included speeches by guests and organizers, the presentation of certificates of honor and letters of gratitude, vibrant performances by creative groups from the city of Slavgorod, as well as a solemn flower-laying ceremony at the Alley of Memory of buried villages. The team of the Slavgorod meteorological station represents 100 years of precise observations and sincere devotion to their work. Congratulations on the anniversary!

On May 28, 2026, a scheduled command and staff exercise (CSE) was held at Belhydromet in the field of population protection during threats and emergencies (EM) of natural and man-made origin. The event was aimed at maintaining high combat readiness of the civil defense (CD) system and verifying the coordination of officials within the framework of the State System for Emergency Prevention and Response (SSEPR). The command and staff exercise was conducted in five stages, each focused on practicing specific protection mechanisms:                     – Management during an emergency threat: At this stage, the alert system for management personnel and the Emergency Commission (EC) was practiced. The readiness of employees to assemble during working hours was checked, the objectives of the CSE were communicated, and the leadership's ability to make decisions upon introducing an "Emergency Regime" was assessed.                – Operation of the evacuation commission: This stage focused on the procedures for assembling and operating the evacuation commission. Participants refined temporary accommodation lists, practiced protocols for evacuating employees from buildings and assembling them at the main entrance for subsequent movement to a Temporary Accommodation Point (TAP).                     – Deployment of civil formations: Next, the readiness activation of Civil Defense Civil Formations (CDCF) was carried out. Communication issues were practiced, as well as the transfer of the meteorological observation and radiation monitoring networks to an accelerated (hourly) mode for rapid tracking of the radiation situation.                     – Radiation protection: In the fourth stage, employee actions were practiced under worsening radiation conditions. Sheltering employees in a protective structure and the decision to temporarily place the team at a TAP were rehearsed.                    – Consequence management: The final stage simulated a fire in the Belhydromet building caused by a short circuit after a substation shutdown due to heavy rain. The CDCF fire brigade practiced extinguishing a simulated fire source using primary firefighting equipment, while unit leaders practiced employee evacuation. Upon completion of the practical actions, the command and staff exercise was officially terminated. The leadership of Belhydromet analyzed the participants' performance, noting the satisfactory level of training of the CDCF personnel and the responsiveness of the command staff. The set objectives were achieved: the alert system was tested, the readiness of civil defense formations for designated actions was assessed, and practical skills for protecting employees in emergency situations were improved. The conducted exercise confirmed Belhydromet's readiness to carry out its tasks of protecting the population and territories under any conditions.

May, which heated the air to July values reaching +30 +31°C, has returned us to the more familiar +20 +25°C. And in the near future, the downward temperature trend will continue. Due to the influx of air masses from northern latitudes, daytime thermometers will fluctuate between +9 and +19°C , which would be more typical of April weather. The culprit behind this cooling will be Cyclone JULE, which has settled over northern Europe. It will supply not only polar air but also, together with its companions – atmospheric fronts – new rounds of precipitation. At the same time, the cyclone will intensify and become a powerful barometric formation, its influence extending not only over a large part of the European territory of Russia (from the White Sea to the Black Sea) but also over a significant thickness of the atmosphere (up to 10 km). Under such conditions, even Anticyclone ALEXANDER will find it extremely difficult to displace its area of influence. In the current synoptic situation, barometric gradients will increase, leading to stronger winds from northern directions and creating additional discomfort from the foul weather. Therefore, today, May 26 , under the influence of the frontal sections of Cyclone JULE, brief localized showers will occur. Amid fluctuations in atmospheric pressure, winds will intensify in some places, and in many western regions of the republic, gusts will reach 15–18 m/s (an orange level of danger is in effect). Meanwhile, atmospheric fronts stretching across the central regions of the country divide it into a cool northeast and center, with temperatures of +15 +21°C , and a warm southwest, where the air will warm up to +25°C. Over the next three days (May 27–29), unstable weather conditions will persist in Belarus. May 27 (Wednesday) atmospheric fronts from Cyclone JULE will continue moving across the territory of our country. As a result, brief showers will occur at night in some areas, and during the morning and daytime across most of the territory; thunderstorms are possible in places. In the morning and daytime hours, with active atmospheric processes, wind gusts of 15–20 m/s are expected in many regions of the country (an orange level of danger has been declared). Due to the influx of cooler air, the temperature background will drop, ranging from +13°C in the north to +21°C in the south by midday. May 28–29 (Thursday–Friday) Belarus will remain within cyclonic circulation, so rainy and windy weather will persist across the republic. At the same time, cold advection will intensify, the temperature background will drop further and will generally be 1–7°C below the climatic norm. Nighttime lows will be +2 +9°C , and daytime highs will range from +9°C in the north to +19°C in the southwest. Later, from May 30 to June 1 , the influence of the stormy cyclone will weaken. With rising atmospheric pressure and westerly flows, the weather will gradually improve: it will become warmer, the wind will die down, and there will be less rain. When using the information a reference to Belhydromet is obligatory

On May 25, a large-scale youth environmental quest took place at the "Pobeda" museum and park complex in Minsk. The event, timed to coincide with Environment Day, brought together the capital's active youth who care about the preservation of natural heritage. A team from Belhydromet actively participated in the quest. Holding such events is aimed at promoting a caring attitude towards nature, involving young people in environmental initiatives, and developing an environmental culture in everyday life. The quest was organized by the primary organization of the public association "Belarusian Republican Youth Union" of the Ministry of Natural Resources, which prepared a rich and diverse program for participants consisting of 10 themed stations . Each challenge required not only theoretical knowledge in ecology but also the ability to work in a team, make quick decisions, and apply practical skills. For Belhydromet employees, participation in such events is a natural extension of their professional activities. Every day, the agency's specialists monitor the state of atmospheric air, surface waters, and the radiation situation in the country. Participating in the youth quest allowed them to demonstrate that the Belhydromet team is active not only in the workplace but also in public life, supporting important environmental trends and sharing their knowledge with the younger generation. Belhydromet extends its sincere gratitude to the organizers of the youth environmental quest for the high level of event preparation, the creative approach to the tasks, and for creating an inspiring atmosphere. We hope that holding such gatherings will become a good tradition, allowing us to involve more and more young people in the noble cause of environmental protection and the formation of an ecologically responsible society. Together, we are creating a favorable climate for the future of our country!

Today, t he 81st session of the Joint Board of the Union State Committee on Hydrometeorology and Environmental Pollution Monitoring concluded. The delegations of the two countries reviewed cooperation issues and discussed future plans . The key topics were: - the launch of a new Union State program on radiation monitoring; - the work of Belarusian polar explorers in Antarctica with support from the Russian side; - the use of artificial intelligence for processing meteorological data. For more details, watch the report by Arctic TV!   As part the event's business program, participants laid flowers at the memorial "To the Defenders of the Soviet Arctic during the Great Patriotic War" ("Alyosha"). The monument to the heroic defenders was erected in 1974 by sculptor Isaac Brodsky and architect Igor Pokrovsky to mark the 30th anniversary of the defeat of the fascist army in the Arctic. Since its opening, residents of Murmansk have affectionately called it the "Murmansk Alyosha." The main figure of the monument is that of an unnamed warrior, a soldier. The height of the memorial is 42.5 meters. The soldier's figure, standing 35.5 meters tall, rises from a seven-meter pedestal. The memorial complex also includes the "Eternal Flame" podium, an alley of hero cities, a memorial to home front workers, and anti-aircraft guns that were used during the Great Patriotic War. According to Arctic TV, from May 29, 2026, the memorial will be closed for extensive restoration. The delegation visited the nuclear-powered icebreaker "Lenin" – the world's first civilian vessel with a nuclear power plant, which has become a symbol of Russia's scientific and technological progress. The icebreaker, built through the efforts of over 500 enterprises and institutions of the USSR, was commissioned on December 3, 1959. In 2009, it was moored in the center of Murmansk near the sea terminal, quickly becoming a "calling card" of the Murmansk region. In addition, the session participants visited the Federal State Budgetary Institution "Murmansk Administration for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring," which ensures hydrometeorological safety in the Arctic region, as well as the institution's history museum, which reflects years of experience in observing the climate and natural phenomena of the Kola Arctic. Familiarization with the work of Murmansk's hydrometeorologists and the history of Arctic exploration allowed the session participants not only to broaden their professional horizons but also to strengthen mutual understanding within the framework of bilateral cooperation between the hydrometeorological services of the Republic of Belarus and the Russian Federation.

On May 21, 2026, the 26th International Scientific Conference "Sakharov Readings 2026: environmental problems of the 21st century" opened in Minsk. The conference was dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant disaster. The opening ceremony of the conference was attended by Mikhail Kavalenka , Deputy Head of Belhydromet, as a representative of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the Republic of Belarus. Mikhail Kavalenka read out a welcome address on behalf of Maxim Lysenko, First Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the Republic of Belarus, addressed to the organizers, participants, and guests of the conference. In his message, Mikhail Kavalenka, on behalf of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the Republic of Belarus and on his own behalf, congratulated everyone on the opening of the scientific conference dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl accident. He noted the tremendous work that specialized professionals have carried out over the past forty years to mitigate the consequences of the accident and minimize risks to the population. He expressed confidence that the exchange of knowledge and experience within the framework of the Sakharov Readings would make an important contribution to addressing global environmental challenges and strengthening international cooperation in the field of environmental protection. He wished all participants productive work, new scientific discoveries, and the successful implementation of their creative projects. Belhydromet fully joins in the congratulations to the conference participants and sincerely wishes them successful and constructive work. For his part, Mikhail Konstantinovich added that it is a great pleasure to take part in the opening of the International Scientific Conference because, over the years of its existence, the Sakharov Readings have become not only a platform for presenting relevant scientific research and developments and a venue for traditional May gatherings of like-minded people, but also a cultural phenomenon shaping the trends of the contemporary environmental agenda. The main objective of the conference is to unite the efforts of leading scientists and practitioners, university professors, postgraduates, master's students, and students from different countries to assess the impact of technical progress on the environment and human beings, as well as to develop measures to reduce the negative impact of human activity on nature. Organizers : Ministry of Education of the Republic of Belarus; Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the Republic of Belarus; Belarusian State University; International Sakharov Environmental Institute of Belarusian State University.