Gerhard Adrian Reflects on 50 Years of Numerical Weather Prediction in IMO Lecture
In his IMO Lecture, Professor Gerhard Adrian, former President of WMO and the German Weather Service (DWD), shares a personal and professional journey through the evolution of numerical weather prediction—from early theoretical foundations to today’s advanced, high-resolution models. The lecture marks a compelling milestone, not only in Professor Adrian’s distinguished career but also in the science of global weather forecasting.
Titled “Following 50 Years of the Evolution of Numerical Weather Prediction – From My Personal Perspective,” the lecture highlights the growing accuracy of forecasts, advances in computing power, and the international cooperation that have shaped modern meteorology. It showcases the critical role of institutions such as WMO, ECMWF, and EUMETSAT in global collaboration, and underlines how innovations like the open-source ICON model now support national meteorological and hydrological services (NMHSs) around the world.
This reflection comes at a pivotal time, reinforcing the value of seamless forecasting, open data exchange, and cutting-edge modelling in addressing today’s pressing challenges—from climate risk to energy transition and disaster resilience.
More information:
- Download the full slide presentation (PDF)
- Read the related news article: Advances in Weather Forecasting Exceeded Expectations, Says IMO Prize Winner Gerhard Adrian
