Why are weather forecasts sometimes inaccurate?
• Air pressure, temperature, mountain ranges, ocean currents and many other factors combine to produce an enormous quantity of interacting variables all of which can alter the weather to a greater or lesser extent. However, greater understanding of the science, plus the use of powerful computer models, continue to improve our ability to make more accurate predictions with longer lead times. • 3. How can we improve weather and climate forecasts? • WMO’s 10-year THORPEX (The Observing System Research and Predictability Experiment (an activity of WMO’s World Weather Research Programme) is currently addressing this very concern. It focuses on identifying problems with forecasting and research. Enhanced observation and data analysis systems, increased understanding of atmosphere dynamics and predictability; and improved global and regional numerical weather prediction models are some areas where improvements can be made. Training more meteorologists in developing nations and providing them
