What’s the News?
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is set to implement the Bharat Forecast System (BFS) — India’s first indigenously developed high-resolution weather forecasting model.
What is BFS?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Developer | Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune |
| To be implemented by | India Meteorological Department (IMD) |
| Resolution | 6 km x 6 km (improved from 12 km x 12 km) |
| Area of prediction unit | Reduced from 144 sq km to 36 sq km |
| Tested since | 2022 (experimental phase) |
| Official rollout | Now operational with high-performance computing support |
Why is BFS Important?
- Better Forecasting of:
- Localised extreme weather (cloudbursts, flash floods)
- Cyclones, heavy rainfall, and monsoon patterns
- District & Sub-district level accuracy: Useful for farmers, disaster response teams, and local governance.
- Micro-level Predictions: A game-changer for local preparedness.
Other Models Used by IMD
| Model | Description |
|---|---|
| Coupled Forecasting System (CFS) | Based on a US model, adapted under India’s Monsoon Mission for long-term monsoon forecasting. |
| Global Forecast System (GFS) | A coupled ocean-atmosphere model used for short to seasonal forecasts. |
BASIC CONCEPTS
- High-Resolution Weather Model: Gives weather data for smaller areas — useful for specific, accurate predictions.
- Coupled Model: Integrates ocean, land, and atmosphere to better simulate climate and weather patterns.
- Flash Floods: Sudden flooding due to intense rainfall in a short time.
- Cloudburst: Very heavy rainfall in a short time over a small area.
UPSC PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS
Q1. Which of the following institutions developed the Bharat Forecast System (BFS)?
A. ISRO
B. IITM, Pune
C. IMD
D. NCMRWF
✅ Answer: B
Q2. What is the spatial resolution of the Bharat Forecast System?
A. 12 km x 12 km
B. 10 km x 10 km
C. 6 km x 6 km
D. 3 km x 3 km
✅ Answer: C
Q3. The Coupled Forecasting System (CFS), used by IMD, was developed under which of the following missions?
A. National Climate Mission
B. Monsoon Mission
C. Digital India Mission
D. Green India Mission
✅ Answer: B
UPSC MAINS QUESTION
Q. Discuss the significance of the Bharat Forecast System (BFS) in enhancing India’s disaster preparedness and climate resilience, especially at local levels.
