Daniel and Kelly’s Extraordinary Universe How do we predict the weather?
Dec 9, 2025
Discover how physics shapes our daily weather predictions. Delve into the importance of forecasting for safety and planning. Hear personal anecdotes that highlight weather's impact. Learn about the balance of models and data required for accurate predictions. Explore the history of weather forecasting and how modern technology, including satellites and Doppler radar, revolutionized the field. Discuss the challenges of predicting extreme weather and the role of community weather stations. Uncover the future of forecasts with machine learning and improved ocean data.
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California's Predictable Weather
- Daniel moved to Southern California and enjoyed predictable, sunny weather that removed planning anxiety.
- He used this to contrast why forecasting still matters for people living in variable climates.
Models Plus Data Drive Forecasts
- Weather prediction pairs physics-based models with real-time data to map past states into future forecasts.
- Both accurate models and extensive observations are required to constrain initial conditions and produce useful predictions.
All Models Are Useful Approximations
- Models are approximations that simplify reality to be computable and useful.
- Good modeling requires knowing which details to include and which to safely ignore.