Samuel Zhang
THE Shanghai Meteorological Bureau said yesterday it's working on a plan to develop a suburban weather forecasting network over the next three years.
Specific observation posts for ultraviolet radiation and air pollution, like acid rain, will be launched in rural districts, according to Wang Jin, a bureau spokeswoman.
Besides, more advanced facilities will be built in the suburbs to realize automatic observation of clouds, visibility in fog and other weather conditions, she added.
A developed suburban meteorological network will improve the city's overall weather service, which directly affects people's life, bureau officials said.
"Observatories in every district will lead to a comprehensive citywide forecast," said Yao Zhizhan, Shanghai Weather Forecast Center director. "The more accurate the district observation reports are, the more accurate the forecast is from the city's
chief meteorologists."
Shanghai is located along the East China Sea and its climate is complex, making it difficult to predict the weather, meteorologists said. Even within the city the weather conditions differ in various districts.
"Some weather changes often occur on a sma1l scale and in a short period. Relying on automatic observatories in rural areas can make the forecast more timely and accurate," said Yao.
The development plan is also crucial to the long-term forecast blueprint on which meteorologists are working for the World ExPo 2010 to beheld in the city.
The long-term forecast will include tropical cyclone and oceanic meteorology, Wang said.
Over the past three years, the bureau has established an elementary forecast network in rural districts like Qingpu and Songjiang.

Shanghai Daily