ERA5 Reanalysis (Copernicus Climate Store)
Quick answer: ERA5 is ECMWF's global reanalysis dataset providing hourly atmospheric and surface climate variables from 1940 to present at ~31km resolution, accessible via the Copernicus Climate Data Store.
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Format
GRIB / NetCDF
Geometry
Raster (reanalysis grid)
Coverage
Global
Resolution
~31km (0.25°)
About this dataset
Global reanalysis dataset from ECMWF providing hourly climate variables from 1940 to present at ~31km resolution.
ERA5 is the fifth-generation ECMWF reanalysis providing hourly estimates of atmospheric, land-surface, and ocean-wave climate variables globally from 1940 to present. It combines model data with observations using data assimilation to produce a consistent gridded climate record at approximately 31km resolution.
Download steps from this dataset’s GeoDataViewer guide. Follow the original provider for current files and access requirements.
How to download
- 1 Register for a free Copernicus Data Space account.
- 2 Navigate to the ERA5 single-levels or pressure-levels dataset.
- 3 Define your area, time period, and variables using the web form or CDS API.
- 4 Download the GRIB or NetCDF data and process with xarray, QGIS, or other tools.
FAQ
What is climate reanalysis?
Climate reanalysis combines observations (satellite, weather stations, ships, etc.) with a numerical weather model using data assimilation to produce a consistent, gridded record of past weather and climate.
Can I access ERA5 programmatically?
Yes. The Copernicus Climate Data Store provides a Python API (cdsapi) for programmatic access to ERA5 data. Install with 'pip install cdsapi' and configure your API key from your CDS account.