BUFR (Binary Universal Form for the Representation of meteorological data) is a binary data format designed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for the efficient exchange and storage of meteorological and oceanographic data. It is a self-describing, table-driven code form, meaning that the structure and content of the data are defined by tables that are included within the BUFR message itself. This allows for a high degree of flexibility and adaptability to different types of data and observing systems. BUFR is used to represent a wide variety of data, including surface observations, upper-air soundings, satellite data, radar data, and oceanographic data. Its binary nature makes it more compact and efficient for transmission and storage compared to character-based formats. The self-describing nature of BUFR allows for easier interpretation and processing of data by different users and systems, even if they are not familiar with the specific data type or observing system. The format is widely used in operational meteorology and climate research.