The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) plays a central role in the global coordination of the naming of extreme weather events. International experts in public health, public policy, and meteorology were consulted to assess the advantages and disadvantages of naming heatwaves being piloted in several countries.

At SERCOM-2 (Oct 2022), WMO Members considered the practice of naming heatwaves, and expressed caution in adopting or promoting this practice. Members requested WMO to focus attention on strengthening heat-health warning systems, enhancing technical heat forecasting capabilities, and building capacity and partnerships to protect vulnerable communities from extreme heat. Key findings are summarized in this Technical Brief.