Last Friday, April 12th, 2024, viticulture enthusiasts and climate scientists alike gathered virtually for an enlightening webinar hosted by MONTEVITIS. Organized by Montenegro’s Institute of Hydrometeorology a

nd Seismology, the webinar provided a deep dive into meteorology and hydrology, shedding light on the intricate relationship between atmospheric dynamics and grape cultivation.  The event offered invaluable perspectives on navigating the challenges and opportunities posed by changing climatic conditions.

One of the highlights of the webinar was the exploration of Montenegro’s unique climatic and hydrological features. The lecturer Golub Ćulafić shed light on the unique climatic and hydrological features of Montenegro. Situated in a zone of pronounced thermal asymmetry between northern Europe and northern Africa, Montenegro experiences a collision of warm and cold air masses, resulting in a diverse range of climate types, including maritime, continental, and mountain climates. With an average runoff ranking among the highest globally, Montenegro boasts abundant water resources, making it a critical asset for the region.

Aleksandar Zečević guided participants through the evolution of operational weather forecasting, highlighting the transition from meteorological instruments to sophisticated numerical weather prediction models. From the assimilation of initial meteorological variables to post-processing techniques, Zečević emphasized the pivotal role of artificial intelligence in enhancing numerical modelling and operational forecasting accuracy.

Last but not least, Irina Smolović provided a comprehensive overview of weather analysis and forecasting methodologies. Participants gained insights into the various scales of atmospheric processes, from micro to macro scales, and the division of forecasts based on forecast periods. Smolović elucidated the tasks performed in the Department of Weather Analysis and Forecasting, including weather analysis, short-term and medium-term forecasting, as well as issuing warnings for specific synoptic situations such as clouds of vertical development and atmospheric disasters.

As the MONTEVITIS project continues to unravel the complex interplay between climate change and viticulture, webinars like this serve as invaluable platforms for knowledge exchange and collaboration. By bridging the gap between scientific research and practical insights, initiatives like these empower winegrowers, researchers, and stakeholders to navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing climate. With a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and resilience, the MONTEVITIS project is paving the way for a more resilient and vibrant future for viticulture in the face of climate change.