Applications of artificial intelligence for forecasting and managing extremes

Climate change poses a serious threat to the socioeconomic development of mainly developing countries by increasing the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events. The events cause huge destructions of property and losses of lives. This chapter explores the innovative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in forecasting and managing these extreme events amidst the ongoing climatic shifts in Africa and beyond. It delves into recent advancements and applications of AI that aim to mitigate the adverse effects of climate variability, specifically focusing on enhancing forecasting accuracy, disaster readiness, and sustainable development. The comprehensive review examines AI’s contribution to weather forecasting, providing early and accurate predictions to prepare communities for impending climatic disturbances. It also explores AI’s capability in pattern detection, which is crucial for identifying and understanding the complexities of extreme weather phenomena. Further, the chapter discusses developing and implementing AI-powered early warning systems, which are important in ensuring timely and effective responses to potential disasters. Additionally, it addresses the utilization of AI in fostering sustainable and resilient urban infrastructure, a critical aspect in adapting to and mitigating the effects of climate change. The collective findings underscore AI’s potential to significantly reduce the impact of climate-induced extremities by enhancing energy efficiency, improving resource management, and contributing to the overall resilience of the African population. This chapter concludes with a perspective on future directions, emphasizing the need for continued research, policy integration, and collaborative efforts to fully realize AI’s promise in bolstering climate resilience in Africa.