Weather Forecasting Concepts and Impacts

The video discusses numerical weather prediction (NWP), a method of forecasting weather using computer simulations. Presenters Alan Halley and Colin Clancy explain the process, including the use of ensemble prediction systems to account for uncertainties like the butterfly effect. The history of weather forecasting is covered, highlighting advancements in computing power. The video also explores the vast data volumes used in NWP and its applications in public safety and various sectors. Impact-based forecasting is emphasized, focusing on how weather affects people rather than just numerical values.

What is the primary purpose of Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP)?

• To study ocean currents

• To forecast weather using computer simulations

• To predict stock market trends

• To analyze geological formations

What is the main advantage of using ensemble prediction systems in weather forecasting?

• They reduce the cost of weather forecasting

• They account for uncertainties in weather predictions

• They provide real-time weather updates

• They eliminate the need for human meteorologists

What is the butterfly effect in the context of weather forecasting?

• A strategy to reduce weather prediction errors

• A method to track butterfly migration patterns

• A phenomenon where small changes can lead to significant impacts

• A technique to improve computer processing speed

Which computer was used for the first weather forecast in 1950?

• Cray-1

• IBM Watson

• Deep Blue

• ENIAC

How has computing power evolved since the first computer weather forecast?

• It has decreased significantly

• It has become less reliable

• It has remained the same

• It has increased significantly

What impact did the COVID-19 pandemic have on weather data collection?

• Increased data from aircraft

• Increased data from surface stations

• Reduced data from aircraft

• No impact on data collection

Which of the following is NOT a source of data for weather forecasting?

• Satellites

• Radar

• Balloon launches

• Seismic activity

How does Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) contribute to public safety?

• By predicting economic trends

• By providing weather warnings for hazardous situations

• By monitoring wildlife populations

• By analyzing traffic patterns

Why is impact-based forecasting important?

• It eliminates the need for weather warnings

• It emphasizes the effects of weather on human activities

• It predicts the exact time of weather events

• It focuses on the numerical values of weather conditions

What is a key focus of future weather forecasting in the context of climate change?

• Eliminating the use of supercomputers

• Focusing on the impacts of weather phenomena

• Increasing the accuracy of numerical values

• Reducing the number of weather stations