Instead of answering homework questions, AI is tracking hurricanes.

What is it? 

Google has developed AI models to track and predict hurricanes. DeepMind is an AI research lab that was started in 2010 to research and solve scientific challenges. In June, Google DeepMind introduced WeatherNext, a family of weather tracking models.

Image of a tree blowing in a storm from a window.

Google DeepMind has been trained with 40 years’ worth of weather descriptions and is learning to forecast the intensity and strength of hurricanes. The model used pattern matching to predict a forecast for Hurricane Erin, and it performed better than traditional models used on the same cyclone.  

However, this does not mean AI will be taking over weather prediction. Google DeepMind, as well as other AI models, still make mistakes, and humans are needed to monitor them and analyze their data.  

Why it matters 

The introduction of AI for hurricane tracking has given scientists a new tool that is more accessible. Unlike traditional models, the AI used to track hurricanes can be run on laptops instead of supercomputers and consumes less energy. This technology may help scientists predict the strength of fast-moving hurricanes more quickly and accurately.  

Image of a hurricane from space.

Hurricanes occur every year off Florida’s coast, and they are getting stronger and producing more rain than in years past. With shifting weather patterns due to environmental stressors in the Gulf of America, we can expect more damage on the coast, such as the Panhandle. Having a tool that adapts quickly and predicts tropical cyclones sooner, Florida can prepare those who live on the coast and in the storm’s path sooner.  

Thinking about the future 

The future of AI and weather forecasting isn’t clear yet. However, it’s become more than just a tool for hurricanes, but other severe weather phenomena, including tornadoes and lightning. Even the National Hurricane Center has adopted the use of an AI model developed by researchers at the University of Miami. There’s hope in the future that we’ll be able to receive more accurate advanced warnings on storms. 

Until then, listen to weather forecasts and always take hurricanes seriously. Follow the correct protocol, such as evacuations and provision prepping.  Learn more about hurricanes in Florida and what you can do to prepare here. 

Info from Tampa Bay Times, Google DeepMind, NOAA, and Sun Sentinel. Images from Canva