Weather prediction technology could prevent floods

Following last year’s summer floods the Met Office has updated its forecasting technology to give better advanced warning on heavy rainfall and storms.

It will now be possible for meteorologists to issue severe weather warnings up to 3 days in advance, giving local authorities much needed extra time to install flood prevention measures.

Previously, the Met Office could only accurately issue severe weather warnings up to 2 days in advance.

The updated prediction technology includes a new computer modelling system that pinpoints storm locations far more accurately.

Last summer’s floods caused over £3 billion worth of damage, affecting thousands of homes and businesses.

It is hoped that the new technology will help to prevent future disasters of such magnitude.

A Met Office spokesperson said that the new forecasting technology will help the UK to meet the challenges ahead.