Numerical Weather Prediction at 60: A Journey of Innovation at the Met Office
Sixty years ago, the Met Office began a transformative journey in weather forecasting for the United Kingdom and the world. The introduction of numerical weather prediction (NWP) in 1965 marked a pivotal moment, initiating an era of scientific breakthroughs, technological progress, and steadily improved forecast accuracy.
From Early Experiments to Operational Forecasts
The story of NWP at the Met Office starts in the early 1950s with pioneering scientists like Fred H. Hinds, guided by John S. Sawyer. They performed the first experimental forecasts using the EDSAC computer at Cambridge. Despite technological limitations, these early attempts set the foundation for future advancements.
By 1959, the Met Office had installed the Ferranti Mercury computer, nicknamed ‘Meteor’, at Dunstable. This was the first computer devoted to NWP research and marked an important milestone.
“The real breakthrough came in 1965 with the arrival of the English Electric KDF9 computer, ‘Comet’, at Bracknell.”
On 2 November 1965, the Met Office issued its first operational computer-generated weather forecast. This achievement drew broad media attention and heralded a new chapter in weather prediction.
Advancing Science and Technology
The decades that followed saw rapid technological and scientific advancements, continually enhancing the reliability and precision of weather forecasts.
“The adoption of numerical weather prediction marked a turning point, ushering in an era of scientific advancement and technological innovation.”
As the Met Office celebrates 60 years of NWP, it reflects on its remarkable progress and looks forward to a future full of exciting possibilities.
Author's Summary: Over six decades, the Met Office has revolutionized weather forecasting through continuous innovation in numerical weather prediction, shaping global meteorology.