Summary

  • Google’s AI-based model for forecasting tropical cyclones can generate 50 scenarios for a storm’s possible track, size and intensity, up to 15 days in advance, according to its new website, Weather Lab.
  • However, the tech giant has said the experimental service is “not something the public should rely on for forecasts”.
  • Its predictions are “at least as accurate” as traditional models, but the National Hurricane Centre will evaluate the AI forecasts.
  • Users can see how AI models compare with the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts’ physics-based models on the interactive website.
  • Google’s latest project comes as the Trump administration has carved away at the capabilities of the National Weather Service.
  • The US federal agency, which is part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, has suffered staff cuts and had its weather balloon launches reduced.

By Justine Calma

Original Article