IMD for tailor made forecast for various sectors

 Soon, specialised weather forecasts could help take preventive measures against the spread of
infectious diseases, plan power generation and also operation of train services. The IMD is
coordinating with various government agencies for providing tailor-made weather forecasts for
different sectors.

 In the next few years, the IMD plans to widen its wings in several spheres of weather services.
Following a memorandum of understanding with the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare,
the department has already started providing climate information feed for health service on an
experimental basis.

 The specialised weather forecast for four days would predict the possibility of the spread of
diseases, including malaria and dengue, in a particular region based on the temperature and
humidity conditions there.

 Similarly, weather plays an important role in the operation of trains as it can damage tracks and
electric equipment powering the train. The IMD is also providing weather information such as wind
speed to the Indian Railways on a pilot basis.

 Power generation is another sector where weather prediction would help plan ahead for power
distribution. Following an agreement with the Power System Operation Corporation, the IMD has
proposed to develop a demand forecast based on various parameters, including wind,
temperature, humidity and onset of sea breeze.

 Various energy sources like thermal and wind could be operated according to the demand and
weather conditions.There are also plans to upgrade the services already being offered in the
tourism and agromet advisory services.

 One of the long-awaited improvements in long-range forecast and precision in weather warning
may soon be implemented.