Meteorological research at SMHI

The Meteorological research unit carries out research and development in weather forecasting, climate analysis, atmospheric processes and air quality. We work with observational data, meteorological analysis and model development for regional weather forecasting in the Nordic region, as well as with remote sensing, climate analysis and air quality at urban to global scales.

Our research and development increase the knowledge which the calculation systems are based on, and refines the descriptions of the physical processes in the atmosphere and near the surface which affect the weather and the air quality. Our researchers have a broad spectrum of knowledge, from meteorology and theoretical physics to mathematics and computer science, and they have solid competence in numerical modelling. We have specialists in various observation techniques, including for radar and satellite data. Our collective knowledge contributes to increasing the use of remote sensing data both in model development and in various types of meteorological and climatological analyses.

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 and surface processes
  • Nowcasting and remote sensing
  • Atmospheric chemistry and air pollution models
  • Urban climate and air quality
  • Climate monitoring and research using remote sensing
  • Software methods for meteorological applications

Research areas – Meteorology

Extensive method and model development

A core of our work is the development of numerical calculation systems. We work with research and development to constantly improve these systems through higher resolution, more developed process descriptions and new data sources.

Method and models in meteorological research

Research projects and international cooperation

Our research is often conducted in national and international projects and in long-term international cooperation, for example in the air environment and remote sensing areas and in the consortia built up for the development of weather forecast models.

Projects within meteorological research

We also participate in bilateral projects, collaborative projects between Sweden and selected countries.

Bilateral collaboration - collaboration between countries in the field of environment and climate