Please note: The algorithm descriptions in English have been automatically translated. Errors may have been introduced in this process. For the original descriptions, go to the Dutch version of the Algorithm Register.

Model system for the daily weather forecast for the Netherlands

This system helps KNMI create and publish the daily weather forecast for the Netherlands and the BES islands (Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba). With this forecast, we inform society about the weather for today and the coming days. We also issue a warning in case of dangerous or extreme weather. This allows everyone (citizens, businesses) to prepare and act safely.

Last change on 1st of October 2025, at 7:43 (CET) | Publication Standard 1.0
Publication category
Other algorithms
Impact assessment
Field not filled in.
Status
In use

General information

Theme

  • Space and Infrastructure
  • Nature and Environment
  • Education and Science

Begin date

2010

Contact information

informatiecentrum@knmi.nl 

Link to publication website

https://knmi.nl

Responsible use

Goal and impact

The system aims to provide the Netherlands and the BES islands with daily weather forecasts and warn of weather extremes by issuing codes.

Considerations

The algorithm system simplifies the process of processing the (physical) data from our weather stations. It ensures that the meteorologist has reliable information when preparing weather forecasts and warning of weather extremes.

Human intervention

The meteorologist determines what inputs of data and parameters are used for the system. When delivering the product (the weather forecast), the meteorologist does the interpretation and prepares the forecast.

Risk management

The algorithm system is included in the algorithm register for transparency. There are few risks in this algorithm system. It supports the meteorologist in his work.

Legal basis

The system is used in the performance of KNMI's statutory weather-related tasks.

Links to legal bases

Law duties meteorology and seismology: https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0037074/2016-01-01

Operations

Data

The KNMI uses data from observations of KNMI weather stations in the Netherlands and the BES islands, data from satellites, and from other countries.

Links to data sources

  • KNMI: https://knmi.nl
  • ACCORD-NWP: https://accord-nwp.org

Technical design

The technical system is a NWP (Numerical Weather Prediction model). At its core is the physics-based HARMONIE model. This is being developed by the ACCORD consortium (of which KNMI is a member). It runs on a High Performance Computer (HPC on Iceland from the UWC West Consortium). Post-processing steps are then applied and at the last, various products are generated. These products (including maps) are used in KNMI's weather room by the meteorologist, but are also made available in an automated way on www.knmi.nl and in the KNMI app, among others. Furthermore, various (automated) products are shared with our partners in the chain, including NIPV, safety regions, operational parties in the safety chains, such as police and fire brigade; knowledge partners such as CBS, RIVM, TNO and universities; water boards; LVNL; RWS, PBL, ILT; and Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment; commercial weather companies.

Similar algorithm descriptions

  • Winter Control is a system used for ice control. The system is linked to both measuring points on the road network and gritting vehicles. It collects data on road conditions, gritting actions and any equipment or machine malfunctions. It also provides insight into salt stocks.

    Last change on 5th of March 2025, at 13:44 (CET) | Publication Standard 1.0
    Publication category
    Other algorithms
    Impact assessment
    Field not filled in.
    Status
    In use
  • The algorithm is used to provide subsidy to farmers who have taken out insurance against adverse weather conditions. The weather conditions covered are hail, storm, drought, rainfall, frost, snow, sleet and fire caused by lightning.

    Last change on 13th of February 2025, at 15:35 (CET) | Publication Standard 1.0
    Publication category
    Impactful algorithms
    Impact assessment
    Field not filled in.
    Status
    In use
  • The algorithm provides a forecast of the discharge of the Rur river at Stah, Germany. Input data is measured discharge from various monitoring points, fallen precipitation, expected precipitation and evaporation. Outputs are hourly forecasts up to 24 hours in the future.

    Last change on 30th of April 2025, at 13:30 (CET) | Publication Standard 1.0
    Publication category
    Other algorithms
    Impact assessment
    Field not filled in.
    Status
    In use
  • This system helps KNMI understand how the climate is changing in the Netherlands and on the BES islands (Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba). To this end, KNMI produces climate scenarios: clear stories and figures about how the climate may change in the future. The KNMI uses this knowledge to inform society and provides advice and warnings about the consequences of climate change.

    Last change on 1st of October 2025, at 7:41 (CET) | Publication Standard 1.0
    Publication category
    Other algorithms
    Impact assessment
    Field not filled in.
    Status
    In use
  • The algorithm is deployed annually in heathlands to determine the extent of grassing. This grassing is a good indicator of the state of the heathlands by giving insight into the presence of invasive crops.

    Last change on 4th of June 2024, at 12:21 (CET) | Publication Standard 1.0
    Publication category
    Other algorithms
    Impact assessment
    Z-Inspection
    Status
    In development