AI Leads the Way in Weather Prediction and Cloud Seeding Techniques
AI and Satellites in Weather Forecasting
The sessions focused on Earth-system forecasting enhanced by AI, utilizing a variety of high-quality datasets including field weather observations, satellite imagery, IoT device data, and geospatial information. The discussions delved into the evolution of data requirements and the necessary infrastructure for model development and validation, with a strong emphasis on ensuring data quality, interoperability, and accessibility.
Critical questions emerged regarding how to ensure that AI and machine learning tools execute appropriate tasks for valid reasons, alongside methods for verifying their reliability and accuracy. Experts explored how varying mandates, incentives, and innovation cultures within public and private sectors affect transparency, openness, and global scientific collaboration.
Technological Challenges Posed by Climate Change
While addressing the media at the summit, Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, President of the World Meteorological Organization and Director of the National Center of Meteorology, remarked:
“In the last century, weather forecasting has transformed tremendously, evolving from conventional observation techniques to sophisticated numerical models that leverage supercomputing, satellites, and AI algorithms.”
During the international conference titled “Weather Forecasting: Progress, Challenges, and Future Outlook,” Al Mandous highlighted that, despite significant advancements in forecast accuracy, substantial challenges persist due to climate change, the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, and data scarcity in numerous developing regions.
Artificial Intelligence: An Opportunity to Tackle Challenges
Al Mandous further remarked that AI presents an unparalleled opportunity to fast-track developments in this domain. By merging physical models with artificial intelligence, sharper local forecasts can be created, providing tailored services that bolster agriculture, disaster management, aviation, and other essential sectors. Utilizing big data, sensors, and the Internet of Things can also mitigate data gaps and enhance benefits.
He underscored the importance of the conference, which gathered prominent figures from the World Meteorological Organization, the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, and EUMETSAT, alongside academics from notable institutions like Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi Polytechnic, and the University of Chicago in the United States.
The event also showcased leaders from major technology companies such as Google, Microsoft, and NVIDIA, as well as representatives from national meteorological and hydrological services, top research institutions, and the private sector.
