The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute is Sweden’s national authority responsible for weather forecasting, water and climate information, and scientific research on the natural conditions that shape daily life. As an expert government agency with a long history dating back to the 19th century, SMHI plays a vital role in supporting public safety, environmental awareness, and informed decisionmaking for industries, authorities, and citizens. From predicting weather and water flows to studying climate change and oceanographic conditions, the institute’s work touches many aspects of society and helps Sweden prepare for both everyday weather and longterm environmental challenges.
History and Development
The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) has its roots in early meteorological efforts in Sweden. The first national meteorological service was established in 1873 as Statens Meteorologiska Centralanstalt and began systematic weather observations in 1874. Forecasts were first issued in 1880, and later became a regular part of public life as they were broadcast on Swedish radio. In 1908, a separate Hydrographic Office was formed to chart Sweden’s freshwater resources and help with related observations.
In 1919, these two services merged into a single institution, originally named Statens meteorologiskhydrografiska anstalt, reflecting its combined responsibility for weather and hydrology. The organization adopted its current name in 1945. In the early 1970s, a decision by the Swedish parliament led to the headquarters being moved from Stockholm to Norrköping, where it remains today. Over decades, SMHI expanded not only in size but also in expertise, adding fields such as oceanography and climate research to its core missions.
Evolution of Services
SMHI’s evolution from basic weather reporting to comprehensive environmental monitoring reflects broader scientific progress and society’s growing need for accurate environmental data. The institute now provides a range of services beyond weather predictions, including hydrological forecasts of river flows, flood risks, and water quality, as well as climate research related to longterm changes in temperature, precipitation, and sea conditions.
Core Areas of Expertise
SMHI’s work is organized around several scientific disciplines that together offer a complete picture of atmospheric and water systems. These areas include
- MeteorologyThe science of weather, atmosphere, and forecasting conditions for shortterm planning and safety.
- HydrologyThe study of water on Earth’s land surfaces, including rivers, lakes, water flows, and flood prediction models.
- OceanographyResearch on seas and oceans, including wave patterns, sea levels, currents, and marine environmental monitoring.
- ClimatologyLongterm analysis of climate trends and changes, vital for understanding global warming and future scenarios.
- Air quality and atmospheric studiesResearch into air pollution, transport, and impacts on health and environment.
These interconnected fields enable SMHI to provide scientific information that supports public safety, environmental protection, economic planning, and research. The institute’s research division, including units like the Rossby Centre for climate modelling, has contributed to national and international studies of weather patterns and climate systems.
Hydrology and Water Management
Hydrology is a crucial part of SMHI’s mission. The institute develops models that predict water flow in rivers and lakes, assesses flood risks, estimates water quality, and supports decisions on dams and reservoirs. These hydrological models are used in planning for infrastructure and environmental protection, ensuring communities can respond effectively to waterrelated challenges such as floods and droughts.
Forecasting and Public Services
One of SMHI’s most visible functions is forecasting weather and issuing warnings for severe conditions. On a daily basis, the institute monitors atmospheric data, analyzes trends, and produces weather forecasts that are used by individuals, businesses, and public agencies. These forecasts inform everything from travel plans to agricultural scheduling and emergency response. SMHI also issues alerts for extreme weather events, such as storms or heavy snowfall, helping authorities and the public prepare and respond effectively.
Forecasts extend beyond weather to include water levels and hydrological conditions. For example, SMHI provides predictions of river discharge and flood risk, which are essential for disaster preparedness and management. By combining realtime data with advanced models, the institute supports both shortterm decisions and longterm planning.
Climate and LongTerm Research
As concerns about climate change grow, SMHI plays an important role in both research and public communication. The institute gathers longterm climate data, conducts studies on changing patterns, and collaborates with international scientific networks to improve understanding of global climate systems. Through climate modelling and analysis, SMHI contributes to informed decisionmaking about adaptation and mitigation strategies, helping governments and communities prepare for future environmental changes.
International Cooperation and Data Exchange
Although SMHI is a Swedish institution, its work has international dimensions. It represents Sweden in global organisations related to meteorology, hydrology, and climate science, contributing to international efforts to monitor environmental conditions and share data. Through partnerships with organisations such as the World Meteorological Organization and regional climate initiatives, SMHI contributes expertise and participates in global scientific exchanges.
In addition to formal partnerships, SMHI assists other countries through capacitybuilding projects that help national weather services improve forecasting and climate services. This cooperation supports sustainable development and strengthens resilience in regions that may be more vulnerable to climate variability.
Tools, Data, and Decision Support
SMHI provides a wide range of data products and decisionsupport tools tailored to different user needs. These include statistics on weather and climate, detailed hydrological information, and specialised forecasts for sectors like aviation, agriculture, and emergency services. Agencies, businesses, and researchers rely on SMHI’s data to make informed choices, ensuring safety and efficiency in weather and waterdependent operations.
- Weather forecasts and warnings for public safety.
- Hydrological models for water resource management.
- Climate statistics and longterm trend analysis.
- Air quality assessments and pollution modelling.
- Oceanographic data for marine planning and monitoring.
Public Outreach and Education
SMHI also plays a role in educating the public about weather, climate, and environmental science. Through publications, reports, and outreach activities, the institute shares insights that help people understand complex environmental processes. Whether through basic explanations of weather phenomena or detailed analyses of climate trends, SMHI aims to improve environmental literacy and empower individuals and organisations with reliable scientific information.
The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute is a cornerstone of environmental science and public service in Sweden. By combining research, forecasting, and international cooperation, SMHI supports safety, resilience, and sustainability in a changing world. Its expertise in meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, and climate science ensures that individuals, communities, and decisionmakers have access to accurate, reliable information that can save lives and protect resources. From everyday weather forecasts to critical climate research, the institute’s work reflects the importance of understanding and responding to the forces of nature.