THE EUROPEAN Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) has celebrated its 50th anniversary.
Based in Shinfield, the independent intergovernmental organisation was formed in 1975; its common goal to better predict extreme weather by providing the meteorological services of each establishing nation with world leading numerical weather predictions.
ECMWF is made up of 23 member states and 12 co-operating states.
Data produced through the collaboration enables meteorological agencies – the voice of authority in each country – to augment their own forecasts, to help them prepare for weather events such as heatwaves and storms.
Representatives from the national meteorological services, and distinguished guests, met with current scientists and former Director Generals of ECMWF at the organisation’s headquarters in Reading for an anniversary celebration.
It followed earlier events at ECMWF’s sites in Germany (Bonn) and Italy (Bologna), and took place in the same building opened by His Majesty The King in 1979, when he was the Prince of Wales.
The event highlighted the many collaborative initiatives that have taken place over the last 50 years and celebrated advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
Director General of ECMWF, Florence Rabier said: “To think how far ECMWF has come since its beginnings is incredible.
“Even during my time as Director General, the pace of change has been fast, but to imagine what has developed since those early days is almost unfathomable.
“I am so grateful for those who had the foresight to join forces at the time for the greater good and for the sustained support, collaboration and co-development efforts.
“Having advanced information on storms, floods and heatwaves is vital to help protect lives and properties.
“It enables many sectors of society including transport, agriculture and renewable energy, to prepare for different eventualities and where possible, adapt.
“I am fascinated to see where the technology leads us in the years that follow”.
For information, visit the group’s anniversary page at: ecmwf.int and a recently published Nature Communications article, at: nature.com (search for ECMWF).
