Government launches “Bharat Forecasting System” – world’s most precise weather model – to improve forecasts

Government Launches Bharat Forecasting System, World’s Most Precise Weather Model, to Enhance Weather Predictions in India

*New Delhi, June 2024* – India has unveiled the “Bharat Forecasting System” (BFS), a cutting-edge weather prediction model promising the world’s highest-resolution forecasting to significantly improve weather predictions across the country. The launch marks a major milestone for India’s meteorology, placing the nation at the forefront of global weather modeling technology.

World’s Highest-Resolution Weather Model

The Bharat Forecasting System stands out for its unprecedented resolution, providing detailed weather forecasts with a 6-kilometer spatial precision. According to reports, this high-resolution capability surpasses existing models used by advanced economies including the United Kingdom, United States, and European Union, offering more localized and accurate predictions than ever before. The BFS’s forecast ability is expected to cover not only nationwide trends but also zoom down to the level of individual villages across India.

From Monsoon Season: Village-Level Forecasts

Officials have confirmed that the BFS will begin issuing village-level weather forecasts from the upcoming monsoon season. This marks a transformative development for India, where accurate, hyper-local weather predictions are critical for millions of farmers and rural communities whose livelihoods depend on timely rains and suitable weather conditions.

By deploying advanced computing and meteorological techniques to deliver granular data, BFS aims to address persistent challenges in India’s agriculture and disaster management. Improved precision means that warnings about events such as heavy rainfall, floods, droughts, and extreme temperatures can be conveyed earlier and with greater accuracy, enabling authorities and citizens to take proactive measures.

Global Leadership in Weather Prediction

With its 6-kilometer grid, the Bharat Forecasting System is regarded as the world’s most precise operational weather model. This leap in forecasting resolution places India ahead of the UK Met Office, National Weather Service (US), and European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, whose models operate at coarser grid resolutions.

According to meteorological agencies, the BFS not only improves the clarity of local forecasts but also enhances the understanding of regional climate phenomena such as the Indian monsoon, cyclones, and severe weather events, benefitting a wide range of sectors from agriculture and fisheries to aviation and disaster preparedness.

Government’s Commitment to Science and Technology

The development and launch of the Bharat Forecasting System demonstrate the government’s emphasis on advancing science and technology infrastructure for the benefit of citizens. The new model is built upon years of research, technological upgrades, and the integration of the latest global best practices in meteorology and computer modeling.

By improving the accuracy and lead-time of weather forecasts, BFS is poised to support India’s farmers, fishermen, policymakers, disaster management authorities, and the general public, reducing economic losses from adverse weather and safeguarding lives.

Looking Ahead

As India enters the 2024 monsoon season, the rollout of the Bharat Forecasting System is expected to make a tangible impact on daily weather prediction and long-term climate resilience. The government has signaled its intent to continue upgrading forecasting infrastructure, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in meteorological science with direct benefits for its 1.4 billion citizens.