Advanced Weather Model Computing Development Act

This legislation, known as the Advanced Weather Model Computing Development Act, aims to significantly enhance numerical weather and climate prediction in the United States. It mandates collaborative research between the Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to achieve this goal. A core provision involves leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies to optimize advanced computing capabilities for NOAA's critical missions. The bill also authorizes the establishment or expansion of centers of excellence to facilitate the adoption of these next-generation computing capabilities, including exploring quantum computing to improve forecast accuracy and resolution. Furthermore, the legislation requires a joint report from NOAA and DOE within two years, evaluating the needs for cloud, quantum, and high-performance computing, and outlining a timeline for implementing high-resolution numerical weather prediction models. NOAA must also develop and publicly release a 10-year strategic plan for high-performance computing and data management, updated every five years until 2035. This plan will detail computing resource needs, facilities, partnerships, use of emerging technologies, and workforce development requirements across NOAA's various offices. The Under Secretary is also required to invite public comments for the strategic plan and provide annual briefings to Congress on its progress, ultimately aiming to improve the accuracy and timeliness of forecasts for hazardous weather and water events.