Today, March 24, the scientific and practical conference "Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow" was held at the headquarters of Belhydromet, timed to coincide with World Meteorological Day. The event brought together leading specialists in the field of hydrometeorology, climatologists, hydrologists, and representatives of related scientific disciplines. The program covered a wide range of topics, from the application of machine learning methods in weather forecasting and the study of intense convective processes to the assessment of climate change, hydrological risks, and adaptation strategies. Opening the conference, Siarhei Khilman , Head of Belhydromet, warmly congratulated his colleagues on the recent professional holiday. He also shared the progress made by Belhydromet specialists in modernizing the observation network and improving forecast information to ensure hydrometeorological safety for citizens, while emphasizing the importance of holding such events. “The theme of our scientific and practical conference is "Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow." This is not merely a slogan proposed by the World Meteorological Organization. It is a profound principle to be embraced: by observing today, we are not only making forecasts, we are protecting the future, the generations to come, and our planet. Belhydromet continuously works to improve forecast information, tailoring its content to the specific needs of users and ensuring it is accessible and comprehensible. However, it is worth noting that only collective efforts will allow us to effectively respond to the challenges posed by climate change. Our scientific and practical conference is a unique opportunity to listen to one another, see the bigger picture, and identify where our efforts can intersect and contribute to a shared outcome. Our meeting is a step toward uniting knowledge and experience.” The conference was particularly enriched by the participation of international specialists, which served as a clear testament to the demand for professional, multifaceted dialogue, including on the Belarusian platform. Among the foreign participants was Aleksandr Sprygin , a representative of the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Research and Production Association “Typhoon” (Russian Federation), who personally visited Belhydromet and delivered a presentation on the study of intense convective processes over the East European Plain. Colleagues from the Federal State Budgetary Institutions “State Hydrological Institute”, Scientific Research Center of Space Hydrometeorology “Planeta”, “All-Russian Research Institute of Hydrometeorological Information – World Data Center”, and “Voeikov Main Geophysical Observatory” joined the event online, with their presentations becoming an integral part of the conference’s robust scientific agenda. The conference’s broad geographic reach was further enhanced by specialists from the Kyrgyz Republic, the Republic of Tajikistan, the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the Republic of Armenia , who presented their reports online. Participation by representatives of Belarusian institutions, such as the Belarusian State University, the Republican Center for Control and Response to Emergency Situations of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, and the Institute of Nature Management of the National Academy of Sciences , was no less significant, underscoring the interagency nature of the issues discussed. Upon conclusion of the event, all speakers were awarded participation certificates . In the context of global climate change, with extreme phenomena becoming increasingly intense, it is precisely the collaborative efforts of scientists, forecasters, hydrologists, and climatologists that serve as the primary tool for safeguarding the future. The outcomes of the conference “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow” allow us to confidently affirm: weather knows no borders, but it has a steadfast alliance of those who study it.  

Belhydromet presents current data on the state of ambient air in the capital based on observations from automatic monitoring stations. Observation results During the period from March 23 and the first half of March 24, 2026 , slight exceedances of hygienic air quality standards were recorded for the following indicators: - particulate matter (fraction up to 2.5 microns, fine dust); - nitrogen oxide. An increase in nitrogen oxide concentrations was observed in the morning hours — during peak traffic intensity. No exceedances of maximum permissible concentrations were detected for other pollutants. Causes of increased pollution in spring The annual rise in particulate matter (dust) content in the air during spring is due to a combination of factors: - fires in natural ecosystems and the transport of smoke; - emissions from fuel combustion (mobile and stationary sources); - industrial processes; - road surface abrasion; - wear of automobile tires. Meteorological conditions The formation of unfavorable conditions for pollutant dispersion was influenced by the anticyclonic weather pattern established in March: - a prolonged period of warm and dry weather with a lack of precipitation, hindering the natural settling of suspended particles; - calm weather with descending air currents, preventing turbulent air mixing; - the formation of surface inversions; - the influx of smoke from natural fires (according to the Ministry of Emergency Situations, an increase in the number of such cases has been recorded recently). These factors contributed to the accumulation of pollutants in the surface layer of the air, which is why Minsk residents may have noticed an unpleasant smell of smoke in various parts of the city. Measures taken In order to reduce anthropogenic pressure and regulate emissions, Belhydromet took the following actions: - on the morning of March 23, a first-category warning about adverse meteorological conditions was sent to major industrial and motor transport enterprises in Minsk; - enterprises received recommendations on adjusting operational modes to minimize emissions during periods conducive to pollutant accumulation. Belhydromet continues to monitor the ambient air quality in Minsk and urges citizens to be environmentally conscious, especially during periods of adverse meteorological conditions. When using the information a reference to Belhydromet is obligatory

Dear colleagues, dear veterans of the Hydrometeorological Service! I wholeheartedly congratulate you on our professional holiday — the Day of the Hydrometeorological Service of the Republic of Belarus! This day is special for each of us. It provides an opportunity to express sincere gratitude to everyone who, through their professional work, ensures the safety and well-being of our citizens every day. Our Service is not just a network of stations and laboratories. It is a well-coordinated mechanism where every specialist contributes to a mission of utmost importance: providing accurate forecasts, issuing timely warnings about hazardous phenomena, and supplying the country with reliable information about the state of the environment. Thanks to your professionalism, farmers plan their planting campaigns, transport workers ensure traffic safety, rescuers prepare for potential emergencies, and ordinary people receive up-to-date weather information. I extend special words of gratitude to the veterans of the Service. Your experience, wisdom, and dedication to the profession have become the foundation of modern Belarusian hydrometeorology. You have passed on to the current generation not only knowledge but also an understanding of the responsibility inherent in our work. Today, we are rightfully proud of the achievements of Belhydromet. We are implementing cutting-edge technologies, expanding our network of automated weather stations, and developing international cooperation. But our greatest wealth is our people: meteorologists, weather forecasters, hydrologists, climatologists, agrometeorologists, chemists, radiometrists, technicians, programmers, and analysts. On this festive day, I wish you all robust health, professional success, accurate forecasts, and the stable development of our departments. May the weather always be favorable to you — both at work and in your personal lives! Respectfully, Head of Belhydromet S.A.Khilman

March 22 is a day when Belarus bows its head in memory of the victims of the Khatyn tragedy . Exactly 83 years ago, the village of Khatyn was destroyed, becoming a terrible symbol of the fate of thousands of Belarusian settlements that were wiped from the face of the earth during the Great Patriotic War. According to the Prosecutor General's Office, at least 290 villages shared the fate of Khatyn and a total of 12,868 Belarusian villages were destroyed during the war. The Khatyn Memorial Complex is not just a place of mourning but a living, eternal reminder: "Remember!" It is a sacred space where the voices of those who were deprived of life, those who were never given the chance to see the future, echo loudly. On this sorrowful day, the staff of Belhydromet joined the republican campaign "Come and Bow Down." Management and specialists laid flowers at the Eternal Flame of the memorial complex to honor the memory of all residents of villages cruelly and unjustly burned in the flames of war. This burned village remains forever in our memory not only as a symbol of boundless sorrow but also as the embodiment of the nation's unyielding spiritual strength. A strength that cannot be broken, even in the face of unimaginable atrocities. We cannot allow time to erase these names, these stories. As long as their memory lives in our hearts, they remain among us — an invisible yet eternal part of our people. Today, we bow our heads in memory of the innocent victims. Eternal memory to the fallen.

On March 22 , World Water Day is celebrated around the globe – a holiday designed to remind humanity of the invaluable significance of water for our planet and for each of us. This day, established by the United Nations, serves as an annual reminder of the need to treat water resources with care, to use them rationally, and to protect them from pollution. In 2026 , the focus is on the theme "Water and Gender Equality." This theme highlights the fundamental connection between water resources and women's rights, emphasizing that equitable and sustainable water resource management is impossible without considering the gender dimension. It is necessary to actively involve women in the decision-making processes related to the planning, distribution, and protection of water resources. Supporting women's leadership in this sector not only contributes to achieving gender equality but also makes water management systems more effective, inclusive, and sustainable. Belarus, rich in rivers, lakes, and groundwater, pays special attention to environmental protection and sustainable water use. Belhydromet, for its part, conducts continuous monitoring of the state of water bodies, forecasting their hydrological regimes and assessing water quality. This data is indispensable for making informed decisions on water resource management, minimizing risks associated with floods and droughts, and ensuring the sustainable development of all economic sectors, including agriculture. On this day, we call on everyone to reflect on their own contribution to the preservation of water resources. The small steps each of us takes – saving water at home, responsible waste disposal, supporting environmental initiatives – can lead to significant positive changes. Let us together protect our most precious treasure – water, the guarantor of life and prosperity for future generations.

On March 20, on the eve of the Day of the Hydrometeorological Service of the Republic of Belarus, a solemn event dedicated to the professional holiday of specialists in the hydrometeorological field was held at Belhydromet. The event was attended by Viktor Galanov, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the Republic of Belarus , the leadership, as well as veterans and employees of Belhydromet. The performance of the National Anthem of the Republic of Belarus set a high tone for the event, underscoring the solemnity of the moment and the state significance of the work performed by the hydrometeorological service. Siarhei Khilman , Head of Belhydromet, addressed those gathered with a welcoming speech, noting the outstanding achievements of the team and emphasizing the role of each employee in ensuring the uninterrupted operation of the service. Viktor Galanov congratulated Belhydromet employees on the upcoming holiday and read out a welcome address from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection. In his speech, he stressed the importance of the work of hydrometeorologists for the country's environmental safety, the forecasting of natural phenomena, and the support of key economic sectors. He also conveyed the Ministry's sincere wishes to the employees and veterans of the Hydrometeorological Service: "From the bottom of our hearts, we express our deep gratitude to all employees and veterans of the Hydrometeorological Service for your responsible and vitally important work! May robust health, inexhaustible energy, well-being, and inspiration accompany you in all your endeavors!" A special part of the celebration was the presentation of awards. Viktor Anatolyevich presented a Certificate of Honor to Maria Asadchaya, a leading engineer-hydrologist from the Water Regime Study Department of the Hydrology and Agrometeorology Service, whose total length of service at Belhydromet exceeds 40 years . An important moment was also the awarding of honors on behalf of Belhydromet Head Siarhei Khilman , who recognized the contribution of his subordinates to the development of hydrometeorological science and practice. Anastasia Zhed, Chairperson of the primary trade union organization of Belhydromet employees , also presented awards, emphasizing the importance of social support and recognition of employee achievements. On this day, words of gratitude and congratulations were heard from esteemed veterans of the hydrometeorological service. Anatoly Polishchuk, former Head of Belhydromet and a veteran with many years of experience, shared his vision of the industry's development and warm memories, highlighting the dedication to the cause and the selflessness of generations of hydrometeorologists. His speech became a symbol of continuity and the unbreakable connection between the past, present, and future of the service. After the formal part of the event concluded, a heartfelt roundtable discussion was held for veterans of the hydrometeorological service . In an informal setting over a cup of tea, representatives of the older generation of specialists, the leadership of Belhydromet, and members of the primary trade union organization gathered. During the meeting, veterans shared memories of their work, told interesting stories from their professional practice, and offered valuable advice to young specialists. The institution's leadership expressed sincere gratitude to the veterans for their invaluable contribution to the development of the country's hydrometeorological service. It is worth noting that the Belarusian State Hydrometeorological Service has a rich history. This year marks the 102nd anniversary of the founding of the service, and the first meteorological observations on the territory of Belarus began as early as 1808. The main mission of the hydrometeorological service remains unchanged – ensuring the safety of the population, providing accurate weather forecasts, and minimizing damage from hazardous natural phenomena. The celebration was a vibrant event that united industry veterans and young specialists, emphasizing the importance of their professional activities for all of Belarusian society.

A press conference titled "Hydrometeorological Safety: Current Realities and Innovative Development" was held at the National Press Center of the Republic of Belarus, timed to coincide with World Meteorological Day and the Day of Workers of the Hydrometeorological Service of the Republic of Belarus. The event brought together leading specialists from Belhydromet to highlight key aspects of their activities, achievements, and future plans. Maryna Hrytskevich, Head of the Meteorological Forecast Service of Belhydromet, emphasized in her speech the importance of atmospheric observations: "The foundation of any weather forecast, as well as warnings, is a multi-level observation system ranging from surface meteorological stations to satellite systems. And the motto of World Meteorological Day 2026 – 'Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow' – underscores this perfectly. After all, what is happening with the atmosphere, oceans, and land here and now is not only the basis for tomorrow's weather forecast but also an invaluable source of knowledge for understanding future climate trends." In the Republic of Belarus, ensuring hydrometeorological safety is one of the primary tasks entrusted to Belhydromet. Weather forecasts and warnings about dangerous and adverse hydrometeorological phenomena issued by Belhydromet make it possible to take preventive measures to protect life and health, safeguard the property of the population, and prevent potential damage to the country's economy. Moreover, the modern equipment in Belhydromet's arsenal allows us to successfully accomplish this task. Additionally, the development and improvement of the numerical weather prediction system for the territory of Belarus, taking into account the latest scientific and technological advances, is becoming particularly relevant for ensuring national security. New technologies for medium-range weather forecasting based on machine learning and neural networks are being developed, which will maintain a high level of forecast and warning accuracy as well as their lead time. For better understanding of information about dangerous and adverse hydrometeorological phenomena, the system of color codes for danger levels continues to be used. Volha Baklanova, Head of the Climate Change Study Department of the Meteorological and Climate Monitoring Service and Data Fund of Belhydromet , presented a report titled "Climate Services and Main Climate Change Trends in the Republic of Belarus." She noted that Belarus is potentially vulnerable to adverse climate changes, and therefore one of Belhydromet's priority tasks is the development of national hydrometeorological activities related to climate information and services. "Monitoring data of the current climate of the Republic of Belarus show that in recent years the warming trend has significantly intensified. Comparing the climate norms adopted by the World Meteorological Organization for the periods 1961–1990 and 1991–2020, it can be noted that the average annual air temperature has increased by 1.3°C," reported Volha Baklanova. At the same time, the rate of increase in surface air temperature in Belarus exceeds the global average. The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, heavy rains, and hail negatively impact agriculture, forestry, infrastructure, and the economy as a whole. To provide climate information to various economic sectors and to conduct educational outreach, Belhydromet prioritizes improving the climate change research system, obtaining more comprehensive assessments of the impact of natural and anthropogenic factors on climate, qualitatively enhancing scientific support, and developing international cooperation. Alena Melnik, Head of the Environmental Information Service of Belhydromet, spoke about ensuring environmental safety and the information products used for monitoring the environmental situation in the country. The National Environmental Monitoring System of the Republic of Belarus includes 13 types of monitoring, of which Belhydromet carries out ambient air monitoring, radiation monitoring, surface water monitoring, and land monitoring with respect to chemical pollution. Belhydromet hosts the main information and analytical center, as well as information and analytical centers for ambient air monitoring, surface water monitoring, and radiation monitoring. "A huge volume of data flows into the information and analytical centers, where it is compiled and analyzed, and as output we obtain various environmental information," noted Alena Melnik. Special attention was paid to ambient air monitoring. The state observation network includes 87 stationary points, 18 automatic stations, 18 gas analyzers, and 1 mobile point. Monitoring covers 26 industrial cities of the republic. Measurement results are compared with established hygienic standards, and in the event of exceedances, Belhydromet promptly informs the environmental authorities. Information on the state of ambient air is available on the platform of the Republican Information System for Automated Environmental Monitoring (RISAMOS) and on the Belhydromet website. Belhydromet also daily forecasts ambient air quality and, when adverse meteorological conditions occur, issues warnings about expected increases in pollution. Ekatsiaryna Istomina, Head of the Hydrology and Agrometeorology Service of Belhydromet , emphasized Belhydromet's role as the official producer of hydrometeorological information, responsible for its quality and use for safety purposes. "Reliable weather and climate information allows enterprises to choose development strategies, minimize damage from hazardous phenomena, and create safe working conditions," she noted. Hydrological observations, covering 112 stations across the country, serve as the basis for assessing water resources, planning water use, and protection. The results are compiled into an information data bank used for forecasts and informing government bodies and the public. Hydrological forecasting is a critically important task that requires the development of methodologies in the context of climate change. New software systems using Earth remote sensing data will improve the quality and timeliness of forecasts, especially for transboundary water bodies. Agrometeorological observations, carried out at 44 stations, inform the agricultural sector about prevailing hydrometeorological conditions. The relevance of these observations has increased due to climate change, necessitating adaptation strategies. Agrometeorological forecasts, including crop yield forecasts, are key to food security. Software tools for forecasting grain crop yields using satellite data have been introduced. Pilot projects providing individual agrometeorological information to agricultural enterprises have demonstrated their practical effectiveness. A video recording of the press conference is available at the link .

On March 19, 2026, Belhydromet held a Unified Information Day dedicated to the theme "Modern Approaches to Regional Development: From Economy to Social Infrastructure." The speaker was Siarhei Khilman, Head of Belhydromet. He emphasized the inextricable link between economic development, the quality of social infrastructure, and the overall well-being of the population. It was stressed that these factors are interdependent and that their harmonious development is the key to the prosperity of any region. Siarhei Khilman detailed a number of important aspects, including the demographic situation and birth rate, and the concept of "1 district – 1 project" as a tool for developing local initiatives. Special attention was paid to issues of providing affordable housing: the prospects of rental housing and the development of satellite cities. The role of large families as the foundation of a successful and stable society was also highlighted. Following the discussion, the participants of the Unified Information Day concluded that applying a comprehensive, cross-sectoral approach to regional development is critically important. Only a unified, well-coordinated system where all areas are closely interconnected can ensure dynamic growth and, consequently, improve the well-being of every citizen.

On March 13, a dialogue platform titled "Belarus – Pride and Glory" was held at Giprosvjaz PJSC, bringing together employees of Belhydromet and Giprosvjaz PJSC. The event served as a platform for discussing the country's historical path, the foundations of the rule of law, and the role of civil initiatives in modern society. One of the speakers at the event was Viktoria Nevodnichaya, Deputy Head for Ideological Work at Belhydromet and Chairperson of the Primary Organization of the Belarusian Union of Women . The context of the Year of Belarusian Women lent particular relevance to the meeting. Participants devoted considerable attention to active social engagement and the contribution of women to the country's development. The activities of the Belarusian Union of Women, its initiatives and projects aimed at supporting the family, strengthening traditional values, and expanding opportunities for women's self-realization were examined in detail. The dialogue participants emphasized that such meetings serve as a solid foundation for social unity and development. The exchange of views between colleagues from different fields, united by shared values, helps strengthen mutual understanding and shape a common civic position.

On March 13, on the eve of one of the most important state holidays – Constitution Day – a dialogue platform was held at Belhydromet. The event, dedicated to the fundamental law of the Republic of Belarus, brought together employees, with particular attention paid to young specialists. The discussion took the form of an open dialogue , where each participant had the opportunity to express their opinion, ask questions of interest, and share their knowledge about the Constitution. For an in-depth discussion, a detailed list of questions was prepared, covering key aspects of the history of the formation and development of the country's fundamental law, its role in shaping statehood, as well as current provisions and prospects. The dialogue participants examined in detail the historical path of the formation of Belarusian statehood, starting from the first constitutional acts that existed on the territory of Belarusian lands and ending with the current Constitution of 1994, which has undergone a number of important changes and additions as a result of referendums. Special attention was paid to the novelties introduced into the fundamental law, such as the institution of the presidency, the All-Belarusian People's Assembly, as well as provisions guaranteeing the rights and freedoms of citizens, including the institution of individual constitutional complaints and the definition of marriage as a union between a woman and a man. The discussion underscored that the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus is not just a set of laws but a living document reflecting the dynamic development of the country and its aspiration to create a democratic, social, and rule-of-law state. The popular essence of the fundamental law, its adoption through a nationwide referendum, as well as its role in shaping the high political and civic culture of Belarusian society, were noted. At the conclusion of the event, for active participation and a deep understanding of the topic under discussion, the most engaged participant of the dialogue was awarded a commemorative prize – a copy of the "Constitution of the Republic of Belarus." Such events play an invaluable role in enhancing the legal literacy of employees, strengthening their civic position and fostering a responsible attitude toward the future of their country.