People have been trying to predict the weather for thousands of years. Since the statistical analysis of weather data and the introduction of computers in the second half of the 20th century, numerical weather forecasts have become possible. The further development of computer simulation models made it easier to forecast the weather. At the same time, the increase in extreme weather events began to be linked to a change in the climate, on which mankind and its actions have a great influence. In particular, the use of fossil fuels has a detrimental effect on the planet’s energy balance as temperatures continue to rise. This is now regarded as one of the main causes of climate change.
Climate change and air pollution are intimately linked. Air pollutants contain more than just greenhouse gases. Aerosols can affect the climate in various ways. Air pollution also has a negative impact on human health and well-being. Poor air quality is one of the greatest threats to public health today, causing some 7 million premature deaths every year. An Air Quality Index (AQI) is used to communicate the level of air pollution to the public.
The „forecast“ of the installation is responsive to its environment. The shader/animation resembles infrared weather graphics reflected onto a changing bed of fog. The forecast of the weather simulation depends on the local Air Quality Index. The higher the air pollution, the more extreme the predicted weather events will be.