Weather forecasting
Also called: Forecast · Topic: Atmosphere: Composition, Structure and Elements of Weather · NCERT: Class 7, Ch 2 "Understanding the Weather"
Meaning
Weather forecasting means predicting the weather ahead. Data come from surface stations, automatic weather stations (AWS), radiosondes on balloons, Doppler weather radars, ships, buoys and satellites. The data are fed into computer models that run on supercomputers. Forecasts cover different time ranges:
- Nowcast: the next few hours
- Short range: 1–3 days
- Medium range: 3–10 days
- Extended range: up to 4 weeks
- Seasonal: a whole season ahead
In India, the IMD (set up in 1875) issues forecasts. They help farmers, fishermen, aviation and disaster agencies prepare in advance.
Example
When a cyclone forms in the Bay of Bengal, IMD tracks it with satellites such as INSAT-3DS (launched February 2024) and with Doppler radars. IMD is the WMO's Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre in New Delhi for cyclones over the North Indian Ocean. Its forecasts are used to warn fishermen not to go to sea and to clear coastal areas before the cyclone reaches land.
Don't confuse with
- Traditional weather prediction: it reads natural signs such as ants or frogs. Modern forecasting uses measured data and computer models.
Related concepts
- India Meteorological Department
- IMD colour-coded weather warnings
- Mission Mausam
- Bharat Forecast System