How IMD's New Model Will Sharpen Weather Forecasts

Forecast resolution will improve from 12 km to 6 km, enhancing localized weather prediction

- Vijay C. Roy

India Meteorological Department (IMD) is enhancing its forecasting capabilities by developing a high-resolution model that will increase its current 12-km grid spacing to 6 km by 2026. The move aims to improve weather predictions at the panchayat level, providing farmers with more precise forecasts.

"Currently, we are providing panchayat-level forecasting, but that is based on the model run at the block level, so we will have to increase the panchayat-level model resolution," said Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, director general (meteorology), IMD, told Mint.

With the installation of radars, automated stations, wind profilers, and other instruments, IMD will expand coverage, improving forecast accuracy. Presently, forecasts are generated for every 12 km.