 |
|
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is actively working to enhance the accuracy and accessibility of its weather forecasts in the face of increasing challenges posed by climate change. Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra recently highlighted the significant strides made by the IMD in improving its predictive capabilities, particularly concerning heavy rainfall. He noted that the accuracy of heavy rainfall forecasts has risen from 60% to 80% over the past five years, a testament to the department's commitment to adapting to the changing climate. This improvement is not simply a matter of increased technological sophistication; it also reflects a deeper understanding of the complex interplay of factors influencing weather patterns in a world increasingly affected by climate change. The evolving nature of climate necessitates a continuous process of refinement and adaptation in forecasting methodologies. The IMD's success in improving heavy rainfall prediction suggests a promising trajectory for enhancing accuracy in other areas as well.
One crucial aspect of the IMD's strategy involves the expansion and modernization of its observational infrastructure. The department has significantly increased its network of observation stations, from 80 to 550 departmental observatories, along with 2000 automatic weather stations and 39 Doppler radars. This expansion significantly enhances the density and quality of data available for weather modeling and prediction. Furthermore, plans are underway to deploy 34 additional radars by 2026, further solidifying the observational foundation for improved forecasting. The increased volume and precision of data acquired through this expanded network allows for more refined weather models and more accurate predictions. This investment in infrastructure is a clear indication of the IMD's commitment to long-term improvements in weather forecasting capabilities and underscores the crucial role of robust observational data in accurately predicting the increasingly unpredictable weather patterns driven by climate change.
Beyond technological advancements, the IMD is also focused on making its forecasts more readily accessible to the public. Initiatives like the ‘Har Har Mausam and Har Ghar Mausam’ campaign are designed to ensure that precise weather predictions reach every household. The development of the ‘Mausam’ mobile app provides hourly weather predictions for the next 36 hours, placing crucial information directly in the hands of individuals. Furthermore, collaborative efforts with the Panchayati Raj Ministry and the Rural Development Ministry are ensuring that weather forecasts reach ward members, sarpanchs, panchayat secretaries, and women involved in agriculture and animal husbandry. This proactive dissemination of information empowers communities to make informed decisions, mitigating the potential risks associated with extreme weather events. By ensuring that critical weather information is readily available and easily understood, the IMD is playing a crucial role in strengthening community resilience in the face of climate change impacts.
The IMD's progress in lightning forecasting further illustrates its commitment to innovative approaches in weather prediction. The commencement of lightning forecasts in 2019 places India among a select group of countries capable of providing this crucial service. The establishment of a research test center in Balasore in collaboration with ISRO and DRDO demonstrates a dedication to ongoing research and development aimed at improving understanding and prediction of lightning strikes. The ongoing research into atmospheric processes, coupled with advancements in observational techniques and computational modeling, will continue to refine the accuracy and reliability of lightning forecasts. This proactive approach underscores the importance of investing in scientific research and development to address the growing challenges posed by extreme weather events.
In conclusion, the IMD's ongoing efforts to improve weather forecasting accuracy in the context of climate change are commendable. The combination of infrastructural enhancements, technological advancements, and proactive dissemination of information represents a holistic approach to ensuring that the nation is well-prepared for the challenges ahead. The commitment to research and development further strengthens the IMD's capacity to adapt to the evolving dynamics of climate change and to provide increasingly accurate and timely forecasts, enabling informed decision-making across various sectors, from agriculture and infrastructure to disaster management and public safety.
Source: Climate change impacts forecasts; IMD boosting accuracy, says DG Mohapatra