A major upgrade to the Met Office forecasting system is launched, described as the most significant scientific improvement in over three years, with a focus on better cloud and fog predictions to improve flight scheduling.

Science Minister Lord Vallance notes benefits across aviation, road safety, and storm emergency planning, illustrating the broad value of the upgrade.

Officials say the upgrade will deliver tangible benefits by making forecasts easier to interpret and providing critical weather information for aviation safety and efficiency.

Global forecast horizons extend from seven to ten days, enabling earlier warnings for severe weather events.

The extended lead times support planning for energy grids, road gritting, and de-icing operations in anticipation of extreme weather.

Enhanced global severe weather warnings can be issued earlier, with forecast lead times increased to ten days, improving preparedness for extreme events.

Winter temperature forecasts have improved, supporting planning for energy grids, road gritting, and aircraft de-icing.

Winter forecasts are now more realistic, aiding energy grid management, road gritting, and aeroplane de-icing through better temperature and weather predictions.

Winter temperature forecasts are more reliable, helping energy grids, road maintenance, and aircraft de-icing planning.