CHARLOTTE, N.C. â In a groundbreaking initiative, the National Weather Service (NWS) is utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to translate critical weather alerts and information into multiple languages, making them accessible to individuals with limited English proficiency.
Chris Horbach, a meteorologist at the NWS office in Columbia, South Carolina, shed light on this innovative project.
The primary objective of the project, hosted at weather.gov/translate, is to bridge the communication gap and provide vital weather information to traditionally underserved and vulnerable populations. By leveraging AI, the NWS has significantly reduced the time needed for translations, allowing forecasters to focus more on improving forecasts and decision support services.
Here's the breakdown of how the new AI model will work.
- AI-Powered Translation: Before adopting lilt for translations, the NWS had been using machine learning models for translating products into Spanish. The integration of AI has expedited the translation process and enhanced accuracy.
- Efficiency Gains: AI translation has led to a substantial reduction in the time forecasters spend on translating critical weather information. This efficiency allows forecasters to concentrate on delivering timely and accurate forecasts.
- Expanding Accessibility: The project has extended Spanish translations to multiple weather forecast offices, including those in the Carolinas. Future plans involve adding Vietnamese and simplified Chinese translations, broadening the project's reach.
- User Feedback: The project is currently in an experimental phase, and user feedback is actively encouraged. Users can submit feedback regarding wording, phrasing, or any confusing elements through email (nws.translate@noaa.gov) or a dedicated feedback form available at weather.gov/translate/feedback.html.
- Continuous Improvement: The NWS emphasizes a commitment to continuous improvement based on user feedback. Plans include refining translations, expanding language offerings, and adding forecast offices in response to community needs.
- Roadmap and Milestones: The project is collecting feedback until September 29, 2024. The roadmap includes expanding the number of languages offered, incorporating additional forecast offices, and refining the translation process.
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This project represents a significant step in leveraging technology to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of weather alerts for diverse communities.
By prioritizing critical weather information and actively seeking user feedback, the NWS is ensuring that the project evolves to meet the needs of a broader population.
The ceiling value of the 5-year contract is $5.5M (assuming the four option years are fully executed). The first year cost about $750k. As the initiative progresses, it holds the potential to become a model for improving communication and safety in the face of severe weather events.
Contact Brad Panovich at bpanovich@wcnc.com or follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.