Accurate Mediterranean Sea forecasting via graph-based deep learning

Accurate ocean forecasting systems are essential for understanding marine dynamics, which play a crucial role in sectors such as shipping, aquaculture, environmental monitoring, and coastal risk management. Traditional numerical solvers, while effective, are computationally expensive and time-consuming. Recent advancements in machine learning have revolutionized weather forecasting, offering fast and energy-efficient alternatives. Building on these advancements, we introduce SeaCast, a neural network designed for high-resolution regional ocean forecasting. SeaCast employs a graph-based framework to effectively handle the complex geometry of ocean grids and integrates external forcing data tailored to the regional ocean context. Our approach is validated through experiments at a high horizontal resolution using the operational numerical forecasting system of the Mediterranean Sea, along with both numerical and data-driven atmospheric forcings. Results demonstrate that SeaCast consistently outperforms the operational model over the conventional 10-day forecast window and further extends skillful predictions to 15 days, marking a significant advancement in regional ocean prediction.