Meteorological research and development
At the Meteorology research unit, we are just over forty researchers and specialists with expertise spanning meteorology, theoretical physics and atmospheric chemistry to mathematics and computer science.
We work with observational data, meteorological analyses, and the development of numerical models for regional weather forecasts in the Nordic region, as well as remote sensing, climate analysis, and air quality from urban to global scales. This work is based on knowledge in classical computational systems, numerical modelling, and process understanding, and is guided by a strong commitment to scientific excellence.
Our research and development enhance the scientific basis of numerical models, refine the representation of physical processes in the atmosphere and near the land surface, increase model resolution, and integrate data from new sources. We continuously advance our activities through developments in high-resolution simulations, data assimilation, and digital twins. At the same time, we explore and integrate AI and machine learning methods in areas and processes where they add value.
Our specialists have deep knowledge of various observation techniques and the use of such data, including radar and satellite systems. Our collective expertise contributes to expanding the use of remote sensing data both in model development and in a wide range of meteorological and climatological analyses.
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Our research areas give focus and in-depth knowledge
The six research areas focus around questions that bring great benefit to both SMHI's operations and society at large:
Atmospheric chemistry and air pollution models
Focus on atmospheric physical and chemical processes
Climate monitoring and research using remote sensing
More climate knowledge from satellite and radar
Software methods for meteorological applications
For increasing amount of data
Nowcasting and remote sensing
New types of data to short-term forecasts
Atmospheric and surface processes
Research for more accurate forecasts
Urban climate and air quality
Heat and air quality in cities
CAMEO and CAMAERA – Two research projects developing Copernicus atmospheric service
The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) monitors the composition of the atmosphere. Now two European research projects will develop the service. SMHI is one of the partners.Green4Extremes – Green infrastructure for synergetic climate adaptation to extremes events
The Green4Extremes project will conduct an integrated assessment of how green infrastructure can provide synergistic effects that counteract both flooding and heat stress in cities while making cities more pleasant to live in.GlobAerBiom – Global biomass-burning aerosols and their aging processes: Insights from the modern era satellites
Biomass burning has major impacts on health, climate and society globally. Using satellite data, researchers will now investigate how aerosols from forest and agricultural fires are dispersed and aged in the atmosphere.CERISE – Research project to improve climate reanalysis and seasonal forecast systems
CERISE aims to enhance the quality of C3S climate reanalyses and seasonal forecast products.CARRA2 – A new generation Copernicus pan-Arctic regional climate reanalysis
In 2021 Copernicus Climate Change Service released the dataset CARRA1, with a 30-year reanalysis of the Arctic climate (1991-2021). The CARRA dataset is now updated monthly, providing new data with three or fewer months latency. The second phase of the project has started, which will extend the dataset to cover the per...
A important part of our daily work is the development of numerical computational models. We are engaged in research and development to continuously improve these systems through higher resolution, more advanced process descriptions and new data sources.
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All of us at the meteorological research unit
The unit is led by Jorge Amorim, together with Jelena Bojarova and Cecilia Bennet.
We publish our research results in international peer-reviewed journals and in SMHI reports. The two most recent publications from SMHI's meteorological research are:
Large-scale evaluation of WRF-chem model and dry deposition schemes during a Saharan dust event over the Iberian Peninsula
Rui Silva, Ana Cristina Carvalho, David Carvalho, Alfredo Rocha
SMHI is recruiting a Professor of Meteorology
SMHI is now opening a position for a Professor of Meteorology as part of a strategic effort to strengthen its research.Co-development kick-off continues decade-long collaboration in West Africa
SMHI and AGRHYMET join forces in a new project aimed at co-developing a multi-model platform for operational forecasting of hydro-climatic extremes in West Africa. In October three days of efficient co-development kicked off this next episode of the long collaboration between SMHI and AGRHYMET.
In Memory of Nils Gustafsson
Nils Gustafsson, former researcher within meteorology at SMHI, has peacefully passed away after a period of illness.