ITU releases joint handbook on weather spectrum protection

The International Telecommunication Union and World Meteorological Organization released a joint handbook on 28 September 2026 to guide protection of radio frequencies used by weather satellites and other observing systems. The agencies launched it at their global spectrum seminar in Geneva.

The publication describes the bands used by meteorological systems, criteria for assessing harmful interference, and possible effects on observations, forecasts and early warnings, according to ITU’s handbook listing. The agencies say it is intended for regulators, weather services and radiocommunications specialists worldwide.

The concern is especially acute for satellite sensors that detect faint, naturally occurring radio signals. Interference can reduce the accuracy or availability of environmental measurements, the agencies say. Their guidance also covers weather radar and systems that collect or transmit observations from aircraft, ships and land stations.

The handbook is a technical reference, not a change to binding frequency allocations. ITU describes its handbooks as statements of knowledge and practice, while its Radio Regulations form the treaty-based spectrum framework. The agencies have not announced a new allocation or a rule taking effect with this publication.

ITU lists a 2017 edition of the meteorology handbook. The agencies call the 2026 guidance updated, but their release does not specify every change from the earlier text. WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo urged delegates to use the new edition as countries prepare positions for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference.