Google DeepMind released WeatherNext 3: with a resolution of up to 5 kilometers, claiming to be the world’s most advanced and accurate AI weather forecasting model

On September 3, 2026, Google Research and DeepMind jointly launched the new generation AI weather model, WeatherNext 3. This model completely abandoned traditional numerical weather forecasting methods that relied on physical equations, instead using real-time global geostationary satellite data for training. WeatherNext 3 can generate hourly forecasts with a resolution of 5 kilometers (for surface variables) or 25 kilometers (for atmospheric variables), and its accuracy is five times higher than that of previous models. The white paper indicates that while maintaining comparable forecasting performance to existing traditional models, this model significantly reduces computational requirements and significantly shortens the time lag from current weather conditions to new forecasts. This update is particularly beneficial for regions in Africa, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific that previously lacked accurate weather services. Additionally, the model provides targeted predictive capabilities for renewable energy production, aiming to help people respond more timely to extreme weather changes.