Introduction of New Meteorological Products: Thermal Stress and Winter Fog Forecasting
WeaClim Solutions introduces new range of specialized weather intelligence products on its website and mobile App, designed to translate conventional meteorological forecasts into actionable information for human safety, mobility and operational decision-making. The new products comprise Thermal Stress Forecasting based on the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) and Fog Forecasting based on Cross Over Temperature Index, Fog Stability Index and Modified Richardson Index.
1. Thermal Stress Forecasting using UTCI
The Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) provides a physiologically relevant assessment of outdoor thermal conditions by considering the combined effects of air temperature, humidity, wind and radiant heat rather than relying on air temperature alone. UTCI was developed specifically for applications including daily forecasts, warnings of thermal extremes, public weather services, bioclimatic assessment and climate-impact studies.
The WeaClim Thermal Stress product will present forecast conditions through an easy-to-understand heat-stress and cold-stress classification, enabling users to identify locations and periods where thermal conditions may become uncomfortable or hazardous. The product can support outdoor workforce management, agriculture, construction, tourism, sports and events, aviation, disaster management, urban planning and public-health preparedness. It can also help organizations plan work schedules, outdoor activities, hydration/rest requirements and precautionary measures during periods of thermal extremes.
2. Fog Forecasting using Multiple Meteorological Indices
WeaClim will also introduce a specialized Fog Forecasting product that combines three complementary approaches: Cross Over Temperature Index, Fog Stability Index and Modified Richardson Index. These parameters provide information on the thermodynamic and atmospheric-stability conditions associated with fog development. Research on radiation fog forecasting has used crossover temperature together with stability and wind-related parameters to diagnose favourable fog conditions.
The Cross Over Temperature Index helps identify the temperature threshold at which nocturnal cooling may lead towards saturation and fog formation. The Fog Stability Index provides an indication of the atmospheric stability conducive to fog development, while the Modified Richardson Index helps assess vertical atmospheric stability and the potential for turbulent mixing. Together, these products can provide a more comprehensive picture than a single fog indicator.
3. Utility and Benefits to Users
These new products will transform WeaClim’s conventional weather forecasts into sector-specific decision-support information. For aviation and airports, fog forecasts can support flight operations, runway planning and visibility-related preparedness. For road, rail and logistics operators, they can provide advance awareness of low-visibility conditions and associated travel risks. Agriculture, construction, tourism and event-management organizations can use thermal-stress information to plan outdoor activities and operational schedules. Power, renewable-energy and infrastructure sectors can incorporate thermal and visibility forecasts into operational planning.
Through the website and App, users will be able to access location-specific forecasts, maps, time-series information, classifications and alerts, helping them anticipate potentially disruptive weather conditions rather than merely responding after they occur. The products therefore strengthen WeaClim’s objective of providing high-resolution, scientifically based and actionable weather intelligence for safer, more efficient and climate-resilient decision-making.
Happy Forecasting !!