IMD's monsoon, weather forecasts get up close and personal

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday started using two models that will enable it to forecast severe weather conditions up to the sub-district or block level. 

Till now, the IMD used to make real-time rainfall forecasts using models that had a grid area of 530 sq km. The grid area will now shrink to 144 sq km. With the new model, the IMD will monitor weather using 20 parameters that include wind speed, temperature, rainfall, and humidity.

These forecasts will be made 6-7 days before the actual event, providing time to the district authorities, farmers and firemen to prepare for any