Google DeepMind, in collaboration with Google Research, has launched WeatherNext, a new family of AI models that promises greater accuracy and efficiency than traditional forecasting methods. According to Google, WeatherNext is the company’s most advanced weather forecasting AI technology.
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Google DeepMind Introduces WeatherNext AI
“WeatherNext models are faster and more efficient than traditional physics-based weather models and yield superior forecast reliability. The gains in forecast performance could enable better preparation to help save lives in the face of extreme weather events, and enhance the reliability of sustainable energy and supply chains,” Google DeepMind said.
Two AI Models for Precise Forecasting
The WeatherNext family includes two distinct AI models:
WeatherNext Graph – A highly efficient model that provides single deterministic forecasts with a 6-hour resolution and a 10-day lead time. It is ideal for applications requiring fast and precise predictions.
“WeatherNext Graph offers more accurate and efficient deterministic forecasts (i.e. single prediction), compared to the best deterministic systems in use today,” Google said.
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WeatherNext Gen – A probabilistic model that generates up to 50 possible weather scenarios with a 12-hour resolution and a 15-day lead time. This model is particularly useful for forecasting extreme weather events like cyclones.
“WeatherNext Gen accurately generates an ensemble forecast (i.e. a range of likely future weather scenarios), better than current ensemble models most widely used today. This helps decision-makers better understand weather uncertainties and risks of extreme conditions,” Google explained.
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AI Enhances Forecast Reliability
“AI models can help us make predictions that are faster and more reliable than those created with traditional methods. These AI models are already transforming how we forecast the weather, helping us make better decisions, and improving disaster response, grid reliability, and global food security,” Google DeepMind said in a blog post.
Google announced that WeatherNext will be available on Google Cloud, providing live forecasts four times daily, along with historical weather data for researchers, forecasters, and decision-making support.
