Weather models

How to choose one

There are a lot of models, which might be confusing at first.

This table will help you pick the correct one for your Spot, but you can also use one, that we've chosen as the Best Model for your particular spot.

ModelDurationResolutionBest for
Global models
ECMWF10 days9 km#1 for the most decisions
GFS2710 days27 kmBest for long-term trends
ICON137.5 days13 kmTop for complex terrain
GFS+10 days3 kmFor quick coastal wind check
Regional models
ICON75 days7 kmEurope regional default
EXP-310 days3 kmFor coastal areas
NAM61h12 kmUSA broader view
Local models
HRRR36h3 kmUS day-of: showers, squalls, gusts
HRDPS48h2.5 kmCanada: channeling winds
AROME42h1.3 kmFrance: breezes, valley winds
ICON-D227h2.2 kmGermany: föhns, valley breezes
UKV-254h2 kmUK: fronts and fast changes
ACCESS-C36h1.5 kmAustralia coasts
Key terms
Global modelWorldwide coverage, lower detail.
Regional/Local modelSmaller area, greater detail.
ResolutionHow detailed the model grid is. Smaller km = more local detail.
DurationHow many hours ahead the model is calculated.