Google says its AI weather model is getting better

Google has released an updated AI weather model that produces forecasts based on real-time satellite observations rather than relying solely on traditional physics-based simulations. The new model generates predictions every hour at five-kilometer resolution, compared to the previous version's six-hour forecasts at 25-kilometer resolution, which is particularly useful for predicting fast-moving rain and snow systems. AI weather models recognize patterns in historical data to make faster predictions than traditional supercomputers, though they are still expected to work alongside physics-based models used by weather agencies. The improved model also produces forecasts for renewable energy generation, such as wind speed predictions at turbine height, and is now integrated into Google's search, maps, and other products.