AI and satellites for weather forecasting
The session investigates predictions for AI-powered Earth systems and relies on diverse, high-quality datasets, ranging from field weather observations and satellite images to IoT devices and geospatial information. The discussion also examined the evolution and infrastructure of data requirements required to develop and validate models, ensuring data quality, interoperability and accessibility.
Important questions have been raised about how AI and machine learning tools can ensure that they perform the right tasks for the right reasons, and how to check their reliability and accuracy. Experts also discussed the impact of a variety of public and private sector missions, incentives and innovation cultures on transparency, openness and global scientific cooperation.
Climate change challenges for modern technology
Speaking to the media during the summit, Dr. Abdullah Al Mandou, president of the World Weather Organization and director of the National Weather Centre, said:
“Over the past century, weather forecasting has made tremendous advances, moving from traditional observation methods to sophisticated numerical models with supercomputing, satellite and AI algorithms.”
The international conference, “Weather Forecasts: Progress, Challenges, and Future Outlook,” highlighted that while these advances have significantly improved forecast accuracy, significant challenges remained due to climate change, increased frequency of extreme weather events and data shortages in many developing regions.
Artificial Intelligence: A Chance to Overcome Challenges
Al Mandous further noted that AI offers an unprecedented opportunity to accelerate progress in this field. By integrating physical models with artificial intelligence, we can achieve more accurate local forecasting and provide tailored services that support agriculture, disaster management, aviation and other critical sectors. Using big data, sensors and the Internet of Things can help widen the data gap and broaden the benefits.
He emphasized the importance of the meeting. The importance of the conference came together with scholars from the world meteorological organizations, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, the Centre for Meteorological Forecasting and EumetSAT, and from the renowned institutions of the University of Abu Dhabi and universities, including Mohamed bin Zayed Zayed University, Khalifa University and Abu Dhabi Polytechnic University.
The event also featured leaders of global technology giants such as Google, Microsoft and Nvidia, as well as representatives from the National Weather and Hydrologic Services, major research institutes and private sectors.
