IFS - Forecast Data
Overview
The Integrated Forecasting System (IFS) is the global numerical weather prediction model operated by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). It provides high-quality weather forecasts up to 15 days ahead and is considered one of the most accurate global forecast systems available.
Data Specifications
- Provider: ECMWF
- Frequency: Twice daily (00Z and 12Z runs)
- Data Latency: Updated every 12 hours
- Geospatial Resolution: 0.25° (approximately 25 km) for public data; higher resolutions available for member states
- Forecast Range: Up to 15 days for medium-range; extended to 46 days for monthly forecasts
- Data Format: GRIB, NetCDF
- Coverage: Global
- Ensemble Members: 51 ensemble members (1 control + 50 perturbed)
Variables Available
- Precipitation (accumulated, rate, type)
- Temperature (2m, skin, multiple atmospheric levels)
- Wind Speed and Direction (10m, multiple atmospheric levels)
- Humidity (relative, specific)
- Cloud Cover (total, high/medium/low)
- Surface Pressure and Mean Sea Level Pressure
- Solar Radiation
- Soil Temperature and Moisture
- Snow Cover and Depth
- Wave height and direction (coupled ocean model)
- And many other atmospheric and surface parameters
Key Features
- State-of-the-art data assimilation system
- Combined deterministic and ensemble prediction system
- High performance computing infrastructure
- Integration of atmospheric, land, ocean and wave models
- Continuous development and improvement cycle
Use in Parametric Insurance
IFS forecast data is valuable for:
- Forward-looking risk assessments
- Early warning systems for weather-related events
- Proactive risk management
- Forecast-based parametric trigger mechanisms
- Pre-emptive claim processing
- Dynamic pricing models
Data Access
The data is accessible through the ECMWF API, Copernicus Climate Data Store, or through authorized data service providers. Certain datasets are freely available for research and commercial use.