The data and forecasts will be used by London 2012 to assist in the staging of several sports, such as sailing, rowing and tennis, which require detailed long-term and short-term forecasts enabling the competitions to run smoothly.

 

The deal will also enable London 2012 to utilise weather forecasts for all of its competition venues, torch relay and main ceremonies as well as giving an overview of the "micro-climate" at each competition and training venue.

 

London 2012 Director of Sport Debbie Jevans said: "The weather is something that we have no control over, but we are determined to be in the best possible position to understand any potential weather patterns which may exist at our venues so we can incorporate it into our planning.

 

"The weather has a direct bearing on a number of sports where detailed forecasts will help us ensure the events run smoothly.

 

"The Met Office weather data collated, along with their forecasts will become a vital cog in our operations, ensuring that the Games are as good as they possibly can be, with the athletes and sport at its core."

 

The services and expertise delivered by the Met Office, an executive agency of the Ministry of Defence and which was founded in 1854, will become integrated into overall London 2012 planning.

 

Their contract begins immediately.