India Embraces AI to Enhance Weather Forecasts Amid Rising Floods and Droughts
- tech360.tv
- Dec 26, 2023
- 2 min read
India is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to develop advanced climate models and improve weather forecasting as the country grapples with increasing instances of torrential rains, floods and droughts.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is exploring the use of AI to generate higher-quality forecast data at a lower cost, aiming to provide more accurate predictions for extreme weather events.
The IMD currently relies on mathematical models and supercomputers to provide weather forecasts. By incorporating AI and expanding the observation network, the department aims to enhance the quality of forecast data while reducing costs. K.S. Hosalikar, head of climate research and services at IMD, believes that AI-based climate models and advisories will significantly improve forecasts.
The IMD has already utilised AI to issue public alerts for heatwaves and diseases like malaria. The department plans to expand its weather observatories, collecting data down to the village level. This move could potentially provide higher-resolution data for more accurate forecasts. To further promote the integration of AI into weather forecasting, the Indian government has established a center to test the concept through workshops and conferences.
Experts emphasise the importance of high-resolution data to maximise the effectiveness of AI models. Parthasarathi Mukhopadhyay, a climate scientist at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, highlights the need for precise data in both space and time for location-specific magnification of existing model forecasts.
As India embraces AI in weather forecasting, it aims to leverage this technology to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events and protect its population. By harnessing the power of AI, India hopes to enhance its ability to predict and respond to floods, droughts and other weather-related challenges.
India is testing AI to improve weather forecasting as floods and droughts increase.
Global warming has intensified extreme weather events in India.
AI has the potential to revolutionise weather forecasting, reducing costs and improving speed.
Source: REUTERS
