Local areas could become more resilient to flooding and snowfall under Government plans for a new £97m Met Office supercomputer.
Some 13 times more powerful than current systems, the High Performance Computer (HPC) is expected to improve the prediction of disruptive weather such as fog, strong winds and heavy snowfall.
The system will enable hourly forecast updates and high-detail information for precision locations, while opening up the possibility for winter forecasts months in advance.
Met Office chief executive Rob Varley said: ‘We are very excited about this new investment in UK science. It will lead to a step change in weather forecasting and climate prediction and give us the capability to strengthen our collaborations with partners in the South West, UK and around the world.
‘The new supercomputer, together with improved observations, science and modelling, will deliver better forecasts and advice to support UK business, the public and government. It will help to make the UK more resilient to high impact weather and other environmental risks.’
The supercomputer’s first phase will be operational in September 2015, with the system due to reach full capacity two years later.
Universities, science and cities minister Greg Clark said: ‘I am confident that the supercomputer will make this nation more resilient and better prepared for high impact weather and boost the economy - improving lives up and down the country.’
