NCM launches AI-powered weather forecasts for Hajj pilgrims

JEDDAH — The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) announced that it is continuing to advance its digital and innovative services during the current Hajj season by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into weather forecasts and awareness bulletins. Additionally, the center has launched specialized reports and a multilingual application to enhance the quality of climate services provided to pilgrims.Dr. Turki Habibullah, director general of Research, Development, and Innovation at the NCM, stated that the center began utilizing AI technologies in weather forecasting last year, entirely leveraging Saudi expertise. He emphasized that the technology has demonstrated exceptional efficiency compared to the Saudi numerical model currently employed at the center.Dr. Habibullah said that the primary advantage of AI lies in its ability to generate forecasts within seconds, in contrast to traditional numerical models, which require high-performance computing and complex operating systems, resulting in considerably longer processing times.He noted that the new model, named Bayan, is still undergoing testing and evaluation, with its official launch anticipated by the end of this year, following the completion of the necessary technical and operational preparations.One of the most prominent new services for this year’s Hajj, he added, is the introduction of the Weather Report for the Miqat Sites. This service aims to provide entities operating at the Miqat locations with 24-hour weather updates, a critical resource given the presence of numerous service and health agencies at these sites.Dr. Habibullah highlighted that the center continues to issue various reports, including ten-day weather forecasts, daily morning and evening briefings, and road condition reports. These reports feature indicators such as heat stress and expected weather conditions, which are linked to the operational needs of multiple agencies.He confirmed that the Anwaar application has been updated this year to support nine different languages, facilitating access to information for pilgrims of diverse nationalities. The app now provides real-time hourly weather data, satellite imagery, and radar information.Furthermore, the center has expanded its awareness programs by adding five new languages, ensuring that critical weather updates and alerts are effectively communicated to agencies and pilgrims alike.Dr. Habibullah also revealed the introduction of an AI-powered service delivering audio weather forecasts in English, a measure designed to enhance communication and reach the widest possible audience during the Hajj season.