Extreme weather forecasts help citizens

China has made strides in extreme weather forecasting, extending the lead time for severe convective weather warnings to 48 minutes last year, up from 38 minutes in 2020. This additional time is crucial for people to take necessary safety measures, according to the China Meteorological Administration.

In addition, the precision of 24-hour typhoon path forecasts has improved, reducing errors to 58 kilometers from 65 km in 2020.

Chen Zhenlin, head of the administration, said at a conference on Monday that the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are challenging traditional understanding.

"This calls for a deeper scientific insight into natural phenomena and highlights the role of meteorology as the first line of defense in disaster prevention and mitigation," he said.

He added that the administration improved joint efforts for prevention and response to major weather disasters last year.

Collaboration with the agricultural department saved 1.15 billion kilograms of wheat from dry, hot winds. The partnership with the ministries of public security and transport has also enhanced road management during severe weather. A joint initiative with the cultural heritage department has evaluated meteorological risks at over 5,000 heritage sites.

Chen emphasized the need to strengthen defenses against weather-related disasters, improve alert systems, and incorporate risk warning tools into digital government platforms.

In Jiangsu province, the meteorological service has recently rolled out a plan to quickly deliver clear weather alerts to the public and local officials. This plan focuses on extreme weather events like typhoons, heavy rain, and snowstorms, using multiple communication channels such as text messages, emergency broadcasts, and television.

Chen said that the meteorological departments will enhance the analysis of climate change trends and the study of extreme weather patterns.

"Our goal is to promote the upgrade of infrastructure standards and boost flood prevention and disaster response capabilities in northern areas, helping to build a society that's resilient to climate change," he said.