The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) was established in 1950 and became a UN Specialised Agency for meteorology (weather and climate), operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences in 1951. Guided by and within the framework of WMO programmes, National Meteorological and Hydrological Services contribute to the protection of life and property against natural disasters, safeguarding the environment and enhancing the economic and social well-being of all sectors of society in areas such as food security, water resources and transport.