Created by Google's DeepMind, this tool outperforms the European weather prediction system in forecasting extreme weather events like wildfires and severe storms, achieving higher accuracy in over 97% of cases.
"GenCast" is capable of providing forecasts in just eight minutes, while traditional models take several hours. The tool relies on historical data spanning from 1979 to 2018, including information on temperature, wind speeds, and atmospheric pressure.
This innovation has the potential to greatly impact disaster preparedness and response, offering precise predictions of extreme weather events that can help authorities take faster, more effective action to protect lives and property. Given the rising number of climate disasters worldwide, such as the Hawaii wildfires and sudden heatwaves, "GenCast" is expected to be a significant step forward in improving responses to these environmental challenges.