14-06-2025
Glasgow researcher leading extreme weather project
Dr Chris White from the University of Strathclyde will head the major new network, known as ANTICIPATE, which aims to boost early warning systems across the continent.
It will be the first network of its kind to link researchers, operational forecasters, and decision-makers in the fields of climate dynamics, multi-hazard forecasting, and disaster risk reduction.
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The initiative is being funded by a European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Action, which supports collaborative research projects across Europe.
The four-year project will unite 46 participants from 26 countries, including national meteorological services like the UK Met Office and Icelandic Meteorological Office.
There will also be input from the World Meteorological Organization and the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre.
Dr White from Strathclyde's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering said: "ANTICIPATE will deliver a step change in how we forecast, communicate and act on extreme weather hazards.
"By uniting experts from across different disciplines and sectors, we aim to close critical gaps and accelerate progress in extended-range, multi-hazard early warnings that can better protect lives, livelihoods and infrastructure."
Currently, forecasting systems provide early warnings only up to 10 days ahead, focusing on single hazards such as floods or heatwaves.
However, ANTICIPATE aims to build operational systems that connect the extended forecasting capacity with real-world applications across multiple hazards.
The network will also support the training and capacity-building of the next generation of experts, with a particular focus on PhD students and early career researchers.
Activities will include summer schools, exchanges, workshops, and conferences.
Dr White added: "Extreme weather events are increasing in frequency and severity due to climate change.
"This Action will help ensure Europe is better prepared to anticipate risks and take timely, informed action."
The ANTICIPATE COST Action will officially start later this autumn.
It is one of 70 new Actions approved this year by the COST governing board, the Committee of Senior Officials.
