OTTAWA, November 29, 2004 – The Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of the Environment and Administrator Vice Adm. (Ret) Conrad C. Lautenbacher of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, today announced the integration of Canada-U.S. weather prediction systems. This Ensemble system will result in better forecasts on both sides of the border. “Our goal is to ensure that Canadians and Americans get the same forecasts regardless of which side of the border they live,” said Minister Dion. “Soon, border communities such as Windsor and Detroit, Calais, Maine and St. Andrews, New Brunswick, Vancouver and Bellingham, Washington will benefit from forecasts based on shared data from Canadian and American observations.” “Canada and the U.S. are firmly committed to the emerging global earth observation system. Integrating our weather prediction systems is an outstanding example of an important new link. Given that we already share the environment and a very long border, it makes sense to share observations as well,” said Administrator Lautenbacher, who is in Ottawa to co-chair a meeting of the international Group on Earth Observations (GEO). The GEO is currently developing a ten-year plan to better coordinate and strengthen global earth observation capabilities. Ensemble forecasting uses an array of mathematical models of the earth-atmosphere systems using slightly different meteorological data known as “initial conditions” to predict the evolution of weather systems. These initial conditions are obtained from large datasets of observations from many sources, including surface stations, aircraft, and satellites. Ensemble systems require the use of supercomputers due to the enormous number of calculations needed to produce forecasts in a reasonable time span. Canada and the United States have been working together to develop the North American Ensemble Forecast System (NAEFS) since early 2003. The recent involvement of the National Meteorological Service of Mexico (SMN) demonstrates the potential for expansion of the NAEFS and its benefits beyond the US – Canadian border. “This agreement embodies the spirit of the GEO by showing our willingness to work together,” said Minister Dion. “Canada has a unique opportunity to contribute to, and also benefit from improved Earth observations.” Canada and the United States have also agreed to collaborate more closely on air quality forecasting and monitoring. Both countries have pledged to increase their exchanges of the measurements, data and knowledge that support their respective air quality forecast programs. This will result in better air quality forecast information for citizens on both sides of the border, so that they can make more informed decisions to protect themselves, their families and the environment. - 30 - For more information contact: Sébastien Bois Environment Canada Media Relations (819) 953-4016 Madelyn Appelbaum NOAA (613) 241-1414 Ext: 519 (202) 482-4858
