IMD aims to enhance weather prediction accuracy using 85 radars and ISRO satellite
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is making significant advancements in precision weather forecasting by installing 85 radars nationwide and utilizing data from the newly launched ISRO satellite. IMD Director General M Mohapatra emphasized the accuracy of IMD’s predictions, including successfully predicting the impact of El Nino on last year’s monsoon. Despite the difficulties, IMD’s forecasts remained unmatched in accurately predicting rainfall patterns.
“Now there is no one to compete with IMD. Our 2023 monsoon forecast did not match,” declared Mohapatra. The prediction turned out to be a successful outcome for the nation, which is witnessing a bountiful harvest and a stable economy, Times of India reported.
This unprecedented accuracy is the result of significant technological investments in weather monitoring systems. Currently, IMD has 39 radars nationwide, which is a significant leap from 15 radars in 2010. In addition, the infrastructure includes 1,000 automatic weather stations, 20 deep-sea floating platforms, contributions from INS and Coast Guard vessels, and 206 volunteer observation vessels. providing hourly feeds.
25 new radars and ISRO satellite synergy
Announcing ambitious plans for the future, Mohapatra stated that “25 new radars, including installations in Mumbai, Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, are underway, aiming to establish a total of 85 radars across India.”
The recent launch of an ISRO satellite is expected to further enhance the observation and weather monitoring capabilities of the IMD. The satellite enables wider coverage and provides location-specific updates even within cities, marking a significant advance in forecast accuracy.
Appreciating IMD’s reliability, the central government has directed all its departments to prioritize IMD’s advice and forecasts over private agencies’ advice and forecasts. Mohapatra highlighted the versatility of weather forecasting, which spans modelling, observations and scientific data, and acknowledged the significant role of the IMD in mitigation. deaths caused by natural disasters.
Weather report
Meanwhile, IMD’s latest forecast indicates isolated or scattered light to moderate rain or snowfall over Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand on March 7. The department has also issued rain warning for several parts of the country. Additionally, hot and humid weather is expected to dominate Rayalaseema and Kerala for the next two days.
