AI transforms way world forecasts weather

During the 11th Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology and Innovation for Sustainable Development (STI Forum 2026), held at United Nations in New York City, the WMO UN Affairs Office highlighted how AI-powered weather forecasting is helping countries provide faster, more efficient, and accessible weather and climate services.

AI solutions supporting early warning systems

At the “AI for Good Lab 2026”, WMO joined 11 other UN organisations to showcase innovative projects developed by National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs). Among the featured initiatives was China’s AI-driven MAZU project, alongside a collaboration between Norway and Malawi using the “forecast-in-a-box” system, supported by funding from the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) Initiative.

These projects are helping assess how AI can strengthen early warning systems, particularly in countries with limited resources.

Focus on ethics, Governance and equal access

The forum also addressed AI governance, education, and capacity-building during a separate event focused on learning in the age of AI. Discussions centred on ethical concerns, trust, and fair access to AI technologies — issues considered especially important for developing countries seeking to adopt these tools within their national weather and climate services.

Importance of national weather services

Beyond AI, participants throughout the forum stressed the critical role of NMHSs in converting scientific research into practical decisions at the national level.

At a virtual side event organised by WMO’s Hydrology team titled “Smart Warnings, Safe Futures: Can Science and Innovation Protect Everyone from Hydro-meteorological Hazards?”, experts examined how advanced scientific solutions can better reach local communities and identified remaining gaps in protection systems.

The discussions underscored the importance of strong national weather services, global data-sharing, and support for the “Early Warnings for All” initiative.

Science-based decision-making key to climate resilience

During another forum event organised by the Group of Friends of Science for Action, Laura Paterson emphasised that effective science-based policymaking depends on well-functioning NMHSs capable of connecting global scientific expertise with local action, particularly as extreme weather events and water-related risks become more frequent.

Through its participation in STI Forum 2026, the WMO reaffirmed that the future of weather, climate, and water services depends on the responsible use of innovation and ensuring that all countries can benefit equally from technological progress.