Discover IMD’s New ‘Bharat Forecast System’: Revolutionizing Localized Weather Predictions Across India

India recently launched the “Bharat Forecast System,” a new weather model that aims to improve weather predictions across the country. This system is crucial for farmers, flood management, and public safety, especially given India’s complex monsoon patterns.

The Bharat Forecast System boasts a resolution of around 6 kilometers (3.7 miles), doubling the detail of previous models. This improvement lets meteorologists assess smaller areas—like a cluster of villages—providing more precise forecasts about rainfall and other weather factors. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), emphasized that this technology will greatly help farmers and enhance public safety.

This system was developed by scientists at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology using a modified version of the US Global Forecast System (GFS). The unique structure divides the Earth into triangles, allowing for more accurate predictions, particularly in tropical regions where rainfall can be unpredictable. Earth Sciences Minister Jitendra Singh noted that global weather events are becoming more localized, increasing the need for such high-resolution models.

Recent studies have shown that accurate rainfall predictions can significantly improve disaster preparedness and response. In regions prone to extreme weather, timely forecasts can save lives and resources. Better predictions can also assist farmers in deciding the best times to plant, thus boosting crop yields.

India has invested around ₹9 billion ($106 million) in a supercomputer to support this initiative. Additionally, plans are underway to double the country’s weather radar network over the next two years, ensuring better data input for the model.

The Bharat Forecast System represents a significant step forward in India’s meteorological capabilities. By delivering more localized and accurate predictions, it not only aids resource management but also strengthens the country’s resilience against weather-related challenges.

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