Google collaborates with NOAA to use artificial intelligence for weather forecasting, research

Google and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have signed a three-year deal to use the tech giant’s artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance the agency’s environmental monitoring, weather forecasting and climate research, according to a joint announcement released Tuesday. 

Research under the deal initially focused on developing small-scale artificial intelligence and machine learning systems, and based on the results, NOAA and Google Cloud will focus on executing full-scale prototypes the agency could use across its organization. 

“Strengthening NOAA’s data processing through the use of big data, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other advanced analytical approaches is critical for maintaining and enhancing the performance of our systems in support of public safety and the economy,” NOAA acting administrator Neil Jacobs said in the announcement. 

“I am excited to utilize new authorities granted to NOAA to pursue cutting-edge technologies that will enhance our mission and better protect lives and property,” Jacobs added. 

Google engineers and data scientists have used artificial intelligence research to develop new methods for understanding and predicting weather.

NOAA’s artificial intelligence strategy aims to infuse new technologies and approaches to increase efficiency and skills through partnerships, training and artificial intelligence-related research and development, according to the announcement. 

The price of the three-year agreement was not released. 

Earlier this month, Google announced a five-year agreement with the Department of Energy. Under the agreement, the DOE is granted access to Google tools, including the tech giant’s Google Cloud Platform and Google Workspace productivity tools.