Scientists at James Cook University have developed artificial intelligence systems that can forecast drought conditions. A trial conducted by Dr Bithin Datta and a team of students has looked at five years' worth of data for the Ross River catchment near Townsville, using AI tools to examine patterns signalling an impending drought. "I was really surprised at some of the results we got; it was quite successful," Dr Datta told AAP. Their AI system was able to accurately predict some of the key indicators of drought, such as soil moisture, salinity, groundwater levels and dam levels, between three and six months ahead of time. Dr Datta said the technology's potential uses could be a game-changer for farmers and for urban water management, with enormous economic benefits.

Climate scientists at Agriculture Canada labs have been developing an artificial intelligence program over the past couple of years. They can now apply their AI program to real-world conditions as severe drought continues to plague parts of the Prairies and Great Plains states. Drought monitor programs have been around for decades, but they only provide current weather events and conditions. Trevor Hadwen, a climate specialist at Agriculture Canada's research lab, said their program, called Drought Outlook, is designed to forecast drought conditions and look 30 days into the future.

They can now apply their AI program to real-world conditions as severe drought continues to plague parts of the Prairies and Great Plains states.