China is strengthening its weather forecasting and nowcasting capabilities to better predict and manage severe convective weather events. The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) announced on Monday that it is focusing on short-duration heavy rainfall, hail, thunderstorm wind gusts, and tornadoes to enhance early warning systems.
Zheng Yongguang, the chief technical officer at the National Meteorological Center's (NMC) severe weather forecasting center, emphasized that this initiative aims to mitigate the impact of sudden and destructive weather phenomena. \"By improving our short-term forecasting and nowcasting, we can provide more accurate and timely information to the public,\" Zheng said.
This enhanced capability proved vital in Pingshan County, Sichuan Province, where a short-term forecast and nowcast on April 15 led to the swift evacuation of residents. The area later experienced record-breaking wind speeds, but thanks to the CMA's timely warnings, the impact on lives and property was minimized.
As extreme weather events become more frequent, these advancements in weather forecasting are crucial for public safety and disaster preparedness across China.
Reference(s):
China steps up short-term weather forecasting and nowcasting
cgtn.com
