Weather and Well-Being: Communicating Biometeorological Knowledge for Public Health

The communication aspects of biometeorology are crucial for effectively conveying scientific information and tailoring policies to develop actions and protection measures for human health. Information must be presented in an easily understandable manner and tailored to the needs of the users. Additionally, the communication channels should be focused on the target audience, and the media used must be appropriate.

These aspects were highlighted at the symposium, which covered various important fields of human biometeorology. This included not only thermal aspects such as the quantification of heat, cold, and other related factors for different spatial aspects, like heat and extreme heat conditions, but also the development of heat warnings. It also addressed the quantification of indoor conditions and outdoor parks and spaces, and the application of prediction models for different climates and situations. Human biometeorology encompasses not only thermal aspects (heat stress), which are particularly relevant in the context of climate change, but also air pollution and the combination of thermal and air pollution factors. More scientific research is needed, as the adverse effects on human health are often due to the combination of several factors simultaneously.

Natural particles in the air, their automatic measurement, and modeling have an increased impact due to population sensitization and increased pollen emissions caused by climate change. Rapid weather changes and infectious diseases are also significant factors.

Another important aspect, beyond scientific analysis to identify factors affecting human health and well-being, is the creation of comprehensive data sets covering all areas of human biometeorology for current and future climate conditions.

Finally, communication by experienced scientists and weather forecasters is crucial for the successful application of biometeorological knowledge and information in daily life and long-term climate-resilient planning in the context of climate change.

The symposium was co-organized by the International Society of Biometeorology, the World Meteorological Organization, the EMS Media and Communication Committee, the Slovenian Meteorological Society, and the Slovenian Environment Agency. It was sponsored by the Solco W. Tromp Foundation.