Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has enhanced its short-term weather forecasting services by completing a feasibility study on artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

The initiative aims to improve the reliability of national weather information and bolster resilience against extreme weather events.

BMKG Deputy for Meteorology Guswanto said on Monday that the study focused on developing an AI-based rainfall nowcasting system.

The system is designed to provide more accurate short-term forecasts, supporting both the public and strategic sectors such as disaster management, agriculture, aviation, maritime, and energy.

“This enhancement not only delivers immediate benefits but also builds long-term climate resilience that saves lives and improves economic efficiency,” Guswanto explained.

The study highlighted the potential of the Unified Precipitation (UP) system, which integrates BMKG radar with global satellite data.

This approach improves spatial resolution to 0.5 kilometers and accelerates forecast updates.

Pilot testing in Jakarta and West Java demonstrated stronger rainfall prediction performance for up to three hours ahead—an essential window for early warning systems.

Guswanto emphasized that the project is non-commercial, with BMKG maintaining full authority over data management, scientific validation, and public dissemination.

Technology partners contribute to innovation and system development, but the agency retains control over the process.

PT EII President Director Muhamad Fitriansyah noted that the system is particularly valuable for densely populated urban centers and regions vulnerable to hydrometeorological risks.

By combining radar and satellite data, the system produces high-resolution, frequently updated forecasts, enhancing responsiveness to extreme weather.

“The data resolution is not only higher, but updates are also more frequent, enabling faster responses to extreme conditions,” Fitriansyah said.

Translator: Prasetyo, Kenzu
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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