Weather Prediction using storm images (Part 1: Problem statement and dataset discussion)

Shuvam Das
deepkapha notes
Published in
5 min readApr 2, 2023

Aim: Enhancing Storm Prediction Accuracy through Satellite Image-Based Wind Speed Forecasting using Gaussian Process Regressor

In this technical article, we aim to demonstrate how satellite images can be utilized to accurately forecast wind speed for storm systems, using Gaussian Process Regressor as the predictive model. By analyzing storm ids (~70250) and plotting their timestamp, we showcase how the model can effectively capture storms’ formation and dissipation patterns, enabling a better understanding of their behavior. Our study not only improves the accuracy of storm prediction but also provides valuable insight into the complex dynamics of storm systems.

Problem Statement

The ability to accurately predict wind speed is crucial for various industries, including aviation, renewable energy, and disaster management. However, traditional forecasting methods often fall short when capturing the complex and dynamic nature of storms. To overcome these limitations, we sought to develop a novel approach to wind speed prediction that utilizes satellite images and Gaussian Process Regressor (GPR).

Our approach involves combining timestamps from multiple storm ids to create a comprehensive dataset, which is then divided into train and validation sets. By training the GPR model on the train set and evaluating its performance on the validation set, we can fine-tune its hyperparameters and ensure accurate predictions. Through detailed analysis and presentation of results, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in accurately forecasting wind speed for storm systems. This has the potential to revolutionize storm prediction and enhance the safety and efficiency of various industries that rely on accurate weather forecasts.

Data Visualization

Satellite images of storm winds provide valuable information about the intensity and movement of storms. These images are captured using remote sensing technology, which allows us to observe weather patterns and changes in atmospheric conditions from space. The images show the distribution of clouds, wind speed, and other meteorological features, providing a clear picture of the size and intensity of the storm.

Some of the satellite images show storm winds with high dangerous speeds. These storms can pose a significant threat to life and property, and it is essential to closely monitor their movement and intensity. The satellite images show the wind patterns of the storm, which can help forecasters to predict its future path and intensity. In addition to the satellite images, graphs of wind speed with timestamps can provide valuable information about the evolution of the storm over time.

Other satellite images show storm winds with moderate speed. While these storms may not pose an immediate threat, they can still cause significant damage to homes and infrastructure. The satellite images show the distribution of clouds and wind patterns, providing forecasters with valuable information about the storm’s movement and intensity. The graphs of wind speed with timestamps can also help track the evolution of the storm and provide information about its potential impact.

Finally, some satellite images show storm winds with low speeds. These storms may not pose an immediate threat, but they can still cause disruptions to daily life and travel. The satellite images can show the extent of the storm, allowing forecasters to predict its potential impact on different areas. The wind speed graphs with timestamps can provide information about the storm’s evolution over time, allowing forecasters to monitor its movement and intensity.

In conclusion, satellite images of storm winds and wind speed graphs are valuable tools for forecasting and monitoring severe weather. These images and graphs provide a clear picture of the size and intensity of the storm, allowing forecasters to make informed decisions about potential risks and necessary precautions. By closely monitoring weather patterns, we can better prepare for severe weather events and mitigate their potential impact on our communities.

Dataset

The dataset on storm winds is a collection of satellite images that have been captured during various storms across different regions around the world. The images are taken by different satellites and instruments, including polar-orbiting and geostationary satellites, and are available in various formats such as visible, infrared, and microwave.

The shown images are of different time stamps starting from 1800 seconds to 30599 seconds. As we can see that the speed and the shape of the wind are changing and so will the effect of the incoming storm effects.

The dataset includes images of storms that have occurred over the past few decades and covers a wide range of storm types, including hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones, and extratropical storms. The images capture different stages of the storm, including its formation, intensification, and dissipation, and provide valuable insights into the storm’s structure, movement, and intensity.

These images show how the wind speed changes drastically with time.

In addition to the images, the dataset also includes other relevant information about the storm, such as its location, date and time, wind speed, and pressure. This information is obtained through various sources, including ground-based weather stations, aircraft reconnaissance, and satellite remote sensing.

The dataset is primarily used by meteorologists and climatologists to study the dynamics of storm systems, improve weather forecasting, and develop better models for predicting storm behavior. It is also used by emergency response agencies to plan and prepare for potential impacts of storms, such as flooding, landslides, and power outages.

The dataset has significant scientific and practical applications, and its availability has contributed to significant advancements in the field of meteorology. By analyzing the images and associated data, researchers can gain a better understanding of the complex processes involved in storm formation and evolution, which can help improve our ability to predict and mitigate the impacts of storms in the future.

Overall, the dataset on storm winds is an essential resource for anyone interested in studying or forecasting severe weather events, and its continued development and expansion are crucial for advancing our knowledge of the Earth’s climate system.

There will be part 2 for this article describing the model and other parameters.

The GitHub repo link is here: https://github.com/deepkapha/EarthScanWebinar

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