IMD to Install 200 Automatic Weather Stations in Four Cities to Enhance Forecasting

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) marked its 151st Foundation Day by announcing plans to install 200 Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) across Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Pune in 2026 to enhance urban weather monitoring and forecasting accuracy. These AWS will provide detailed, real-time data to better predict extreme weather events like heatwaves and downpours. IMD highlighted significant improvements in forecast accuracy over recent decades, attributing progress to technological advancements and sustained investments. The department also aims to strengthen meteorological research and capacity building through new centres of excellence.