Weather Forecasting

Danny Jierian
ARO 301-02
Professor Tony Lin

Summary
The foundation of weather forecasting is based heavily in simulation of various conditions and
patterns. As all of these patterns are explained using fluid mechanics, the solvers and systems
used to simulate such phenomena are based on fluid mechanics. The creators of these models
must have a great knowledge base of fluid dynamics to be able to develop an accurate model of
any random event on earth. Models of the atmosphere, ocean, and the carbon cycle are just a few
of the models necessary to create a realistic model of weather conditions.
New models are constantly being developed to simulate more things. Recent
developments have improved accuracy of clouds and sea ice, which are more intensive to
simulate. The carbon cycle models now predict patterns of greenhouse gases and global
warming. The most accurate predictions take advantage of multi-model systems. The best
systems offer a comprehensive simulation of the fluid mechanics that define weather patterns.
These simulations are extremely intensive, and can be limited by computing power. Despite this,
more rudimentary simulations have been created for more personal use.
The Hadley Centre in the United Kingdom has developed the HadCm3 model, which is
a comprehensive weather model that can be used to forecast weather conditions. It includes an
ocean model, atmosphere model, and the momentum flux between atmosphere and ocean. These
are all defined by fluid dynamics. The information is updated once a day, and can be compiled,

analyzed, and visualized using software from UC Berkeley, thus making weather forecasting
more personal and accessible.

References

http://www2.ims.nus.edu.sg/Programs/09fluidss/files/Report_Emily.pdf
https://prezi.com/j00bcoc2xizf/fluid-mechanics-applications-to-weather-forecast-andclimat/

http://mps.rsmas.miami.edu/images/weather-forecasting.jpg

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bd/Mitch_01.jpg