Assignment on Weather Forecasting: Types and Uses
Name: Rohan Kumar
Class: [Link]. (Agriculture), 2nd Year
College: Dr. Kalam Agricultural College, Kishanganj
Subject: Agrometeorology
Introduction
Weather forecasting is the scientific process of predicting the future state of the atmosphere
at a particular location and time. It includes temperature, rainfall, humidity, wind speed,
and other meteorological parameters. Weather plays a crucial role in various sectors like
agriculture, transportation, construction, disaster management, and tourism.
In India, where agriculture largely depends on monsoons and natural climate, weather
forecasting helps farmers plan their farming activities such as sowing, irrigation,
fertilization, and harvesting. Accurate forecasting reduces crop loss, increases yield, and
improves overall farm management.
What is Weather Forecasting?
Weather forecasting involves collecting atmospheric data from various sources like
satellites, radars, automatic weather stations, weather balloons, and ocean buoys. This data
is analyzed using computer-based numerical weather prediction (NWP) models to provide
future weather conditions.
Organizations such as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) use advanced tools like
Doppler radars, GIS, and remote sensing to make forecasts that are shared via mobile apps,
TV, newspapers, and SMS alerts to farmers.
Types of Weather Forecasting and Their Uses
1. Nowcasting (0–6 hours): Very short-term forecast. Helps manage sudden events like
thunderstorms, hailstorms, fog, etc.
2. Short-Range Forecast (1–3 days): Useful for irrigation, pesticide application, and short-
term field planning.
3. Medium-Range Forecast (4–10 days): Aids in decisions about sowing, intercultural
operations, and fertilizer use.
4. Long-Range Forecast (10 days–3 months): Helps in seasonal crop planning based on
monsoon prediction.
5. Climate Forecast (Beyond 3 months): Used for long-term planning such as selecting crop
patterns and preparing for climate change.
Methods of Weather Forecasting
1. Synoptic Method:
- Based on weather maps and surface observations.
- Useful for interpreting pressure patterns and wind flows.
2. Statistical Method:
- Uses historical data and correlations.
- Useful for long-range and seasonal forecasts.
3. Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP):
- Uses mathematical models and supercomputers.
- Highly accurate and used for most modern forecasts.
4. Remote Sensing Method:
- Uses satellite and radar data.
- Ideal for real-time monitoring and nowcasting.
5. Empirical Method:
- Based on traditional knowledge and local indicators.
- Still used in rural areas.
Uses of Weather Forecasting in Agriculture
1. Crop planning based on rainfall prediction
2. Sowing at optimal time
3. Efficient irrigation scheduling
4. Safe pesticide and fertilizer application
5. Harvesting and post-harvest handling
6. Protection against frost, heat waves, and hailstorms
7. Planning livestock shelter and feed
Other Uses of Weather Forecasting
- Transport (safe navigation for aviation, marine, and roadways)
- Disaster management (early warnings for floods, cyclones)
- Construction industry planning
- Tourism and event planning
- Health advisories for heatwaves or cold spells
Agencies Involved in Weather Forecasting in India
1. India Meteorological Department (IMD)
2. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
3. ICAR and Agromet Field Units (AMFUs)
4. Private forecasting services like Skymet, AccuWeather
Modern Technologies Used in Forecasting
- Doppler weather radars
- Numerical weather prediction (NWP) models
- Satellite imagery and GIS
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) for forecast enhancement
Conclusion
Weather forecasting is an essential tool in modern agriculture and allied fields. Timely and
accurate forecasts help in better planning, minimizing losses, and improving productivity.
Farmers who use weather-based advisories can better manage their crops, water resources,
and inputs, contributing to sustainable agricultural development.
