Numerical Weather Prediction at 60: A journey of innovation at the Met Office

Numerical Weather Prediction at 60: A Journey of Innovation at the Met Office

Sixty years ago, the Met Office began a transformative journey that revolutionized weather forecasting in the UK and beyond. The introduction of numerical weather prediction (NWP) in 1965 marked a pivotal moment, launching an era of scientific progress, technological breakthroughs, and steadily improving forecast accuracy. As the Met Office celebrates the 60th anniversary of NWP, it reflects on significant achievements and anticipates future advancements.

From Early Experiments to Operational Forecasts

The story of NWP at the Met Office starts in the early 1950s with pioneering scientists like Fred H. Hinds, guided by John S. Sawyer. They conducted initial experimental forecasts using the EDSAC computer at Cambridge. Despite technological limitations, these efforts established the foundation for future developments.

By 1959, the installation of the Ferranti Mercury computer, nicknamed ‘Meteor’, at Dunstable marked a major milestone, providing the first computer dedicated to NWP research.

“On 2 November 1965, the Met Office produced its first operational computer forecast, a moment that received widespread media attention and signalled the start of a new era in weather prediction.”

The real breakthrough arrived in 1965 with the English Electric KDF9 computer, known as ‘Comet’, at Bracknell.

Advancing Science and Technology

The subsequent decades were marked by rapid advancements, continually enhancing the precision and reliability of weather forecasts through innovative science and technology.

Author’s summary: The Met Office’s 60-year journey with numerical weather prediction showcases relentless innovation, shaping the future of meteorology worldwide.

Wired-Gov — 2025-11-04