Research at DMI

Weather Research

DMI’s Weather Research department brings together expertise in weather models, oceanography, dispersion, and hydrology. We conduct research in these fields to advance our forecasts capabilities, assess risks, and support the society.

The Weather Model unit develops and operates advanced numerical and machine-learning-based models that underpin our forecasts and on-demand operations such as dispersion events. We continuously improve model resolution, physics, dynamics, and use of observations. We also conduct research in nowcasting for short-term predictions as well as ensemble methods that assess forecast uncertainty and highlight potential extremes.

The Ocean & Dispersion unit hosts researchers in both oceanography and atmospheric dispersion. The work focuses on the representation of sea level, currents, and waves in Danish waters, Greenland, and Europe. We use advanced numerical ocean models and observations from gauges, satellites and buoys to produce forecasts at the daily scale to longer-term products at the decadal scale. 

The Flooding and Hydrology unit develops models, operational products, and data solutions that support society’s need for knowledge about water and floods. The unit works in a research-based and interdisciplinary manner with hydrology, flood forecasting, and the interplay between water, weather, and climate.

National Center for Climate Research

At DMI’s National Centre for Climate Research (NCKF) we study how climate change affects Denmark, the Arctic, and the world. Our mission is to carry out relevant high-quality and impactful applied climate research which through monitoring, modelling, and analysis provide knowledge and data that is effectively communicated in support of informed decision-making and creates value for society. 

NCKF builds on DMI’s long-standing expertise in climate research, monitoring and forecasting, and works closely with national and international partners. NCKF strengthens the knowledge base through in-house and collaborative research projects and an expanding group of PhD students working with universities, authorities and scientific institutions across the Kingdom of Denmark.

Our research spans a broad range of climate-related topics, with a strong focus on understanding future risks and strengthening societal resilience. We investigate future extreme weather and societal resilience, including how extreme weather events in Denmark are changing and to what extent they can be attributed to climate change. This also involves the development of climate services, monitoring of ongoing climatic changes and their impacts, as well as work related to the green transition.

In the area of polar climate change and impacts, we study ice-sheet retreat and the changing climate in Greenland and Antarctica. Our research addresses the sources and consequences of global sea-level rise, alongside the decline of sea ice, polar amplification, and the implications these developments hold for maritime safety in polar regions.

Finally, within global warming and tipping points, we focus on global atmospheric dynamics and their influence on European weather patterns. We also examine ocean predictability, including variability and long-term change, and assess the risks and potential impacts associated with climate tipping points.