HMWS Modernized with One Million Euros in Investments

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski visited the Hydrometeorological Administration (HMWS) today, where he inspected the institution’s completed investments and new spatial, technical and laboratory equipment.

According to HMWS Director Igor Lazarovski, over the past two years, investments have been made in updating the laboratory, meteorological and hydrological infrastructure, as well as in creating better conditions for staff.

Lazarovski said that the modernization process has included strengthening technical and operational capacities, improving workspaces and advancing the systems used for meteorological, hydrological and laboratory monitoring.

As part of the IPA project for the Water Quality Sector, HMWS has secured modern laboratory equipment worth 671,000 euros. To install it, around 200 square meters of laboratory space were renovated and adapted with budget funding, in accordance with the requirements, standards and necessary working conditions.

Another investment, worth around 250,000 euros, was made at the HMWS facility for the complete reconstruction of 200 square meters of space, which will serve as the new forecasting and synoptic center. The project was funded by the Swiss government and supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Meanwhile, more than 400 square meters at the HMWS facility in Zajçev Rid were reconstructed using budget funds. The old floors were replaced with new tiles, while the lighting system was equipped with modern LED panels and lamps. According to Lazarovski, the works significantly improved working conditions for employees.

During this process, the weather radar in Gjurishte was also fully digitized. In addition, the HMWS facilities in Ohrid, Prilep and Bitola were renovated.

The investments are expected to enable more modern monitoring of atmospheric processes, more efficient identification of dangerous weather phenomena and improvements to early warning systems.