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The Cuban photographer Raúl Navarro González, originally from Matanzas, has been selected as a finalist in the 2026 photography competition of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which each year chooses the images that will illustrate its official calendar.
Of the 75 finalist photographs shared by the international organization, two were taken by Navarro in natural settings of his hometown province.
Both images are currently in the public voting process on the official WMO platforms on Facebook, Instagram, and Flickr, where the public can show their support by liking.
One of his selected works is titled "Fun Under the Rainbow" and was captured on February 17, 2024, in Matanzas.
The image shows two children jumping and playing in a river under a clear sky, while a rainbow appears in the background, lending a magical and cheerful tone to the scene.
The second image, "Storm Cloud Over Varadero," was taken on October 25, 2024, on the shores of Varadero.
It depicts a dramatic formation of storm clouds stretching over the calm sea, highlighting the contrast between the tranquility of the water and the threatening strength of the sky.
According to the WMO's announcement of the finalists, this year's edition focused on images that depict the impacts of climate, water, and weather on people and their livelihoods, both positive and negative.
It also aims to highlight the urgency of protecting the planet against the effects of human action, which are key themes in the work of this United Nations organization.
The public voting period will extend until September 8, 2025. Subsequently, a jury composed of photographers, meteorologists, scientists, and communicators will select the 13 winners who will be featured in the official WMO calendar for 2026.
The selected images will also be shared on the organization's digital channels and will be featured in the celebrations and promotional materials for World Meteorological Day 2026.
Last year, Navarro
The photograph managed to capture the iconic La Concordia Bridge in Matanzas at the moment when a lightning strike illuminated the city's urban landscape.
Frequently asked questions about the Cuban photographer finalist for the WMO 2026 calendar
Who is the Cuban photographer finalist for the 2026 WMO calendar?
The Cuban finalist photographer is Raúl Navarro González, originally from Matanzas. He was selected as a finalist in the 2026 photography contest of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) thanks to two of his images captured in his home province.
Which photographs by Raúl Navarro were selected?
The selected photographs by Raúl Navarro are “Fun Under the Rainbow”, which shows two children playing under a rainbow, and “Storm Cloud Over Varadero”, which captures stormy clouds over the sea. Both images stand out for their composition and the visual impact they convey regarding the weather.
How can the finalist photographs for the WMO 2026 calendar be voted on?
The voting for the finalist photographs takes place on the official WMO platforms on Facebook, Instagram, and Flickr. The public can support the images by giving them a "like" until September 8, 2025. Subsequently, a jury will select the winners who will be featured in the calendar.
What does the 2026 WMO photography competition aim to highlight?
The WMO 2026 photography contest focuses on images that showcase the impacts of climate, water, and weather on people and their livelihoods. Additionally, it aims to highlight the urgency of protecting the planet against the effects of human activity. These themes are central to the work of the WMO, a United Nations organization.
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