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 transformation in weather forecasting for the UK and globally. The introduction of numerical weather prediction (NWP) in 1965 marked a major turning point, bringing scientific advancements, technological progress, and steadily improving forecast accuracy.

Early Experiments Lay the Groundwork

The beginnings of NWP at the Met Office trace back to the early 1950s. Pioneering scientists like Fred H. Hinds, guided by John S. Sawyer, carried out the first experimental forecasts using the EDSAC computer at Cambridge. Despite technological limitations, these foundational efforts set the stage for future developments.

Key Milestones in Computing for Weather Prediction

In 1959, the Ferranti Mercury computer, nicknamed ‘Meteor,’ was installed at Dunstable and became the first computer dedicated to NWP research.
The real breakthrough occurred in 1965 with the arrival of the English Electric KDF9 computer ‘Comet’ at Bracknell.

“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.”

Progress and Future Outlook

Following this milestone, the Met Office made rapid advances in both science and technology, continually enhancing its forecasting capabilities.

Author's summary: The Met Office’s 60-year NWP journey highlights groundbreaking scientific and technological strides that revolutionized weather forecasting and continue to drive innovation.

Wired-Gov — 2025-11-05