The ability to have accurate long range forecasts for various climate parameters e.g. about whether rainfall or temperature will be above or below average, and by how much, would have enormous potential benefits. It is these forecasts that could provide the information needed for longer-term decisions and early warnings of potential hazards. However the credibility of any forecast depends on their track record to accurately predict the climate. Climate predictions will only be accepted if they are more accurate or provide more information than the climatological experience that is currently used to make decisions.

This page provides links to external seasonal forecast resources - following links in the side menu will allow viewing forecast maps for forecasts issued by various institutions, or accessing the actual forecast data.