2026 World Meteorological Day activities launched; Fengyun meteorological satellites are used by international users in 133 countries and regions.

Daily Economic News Reporter | Li Biao Daily Economic News Editor | Xu Shaohang

Beijing, March 21 — On March 21, the China Meteorological Administration and the China Meteorological Society launched the 2026 World Meteorological Day activities in Beijing. This year’s World Meteorological Day, on March 23, marks the 66th anniversary, with the theme “Observe Today’s Weather, Protect Tomorrow’s Home.”

Focusing on this year’s theme, the China Meteorological Administration mobilized social forces across various sectors to organize rich and diverse science popularization activities nationwide. These activities, tailored to local characteristics and different scenarios and audiences, aim to enhance public understanding of extreme weather monitoring, forecasting, early warning, disaster prevention and mitigation, climate change adaptation, and meteorological empowerment for high-quality economic and social development. The goal is to promote meteorological science awareness in government agencies, schools, rural areas, communities, and enterprises, improving disaster prevention and climate resource utilization capabilities among governments and the public at all levels. This effort continues to strengthen the brand influence, impact, and leadership of China’s meteorological science popularization.

On the launch day, the China Meteorological Administration’s campus was open to the public. Visitors explored meteorological observation sites and science popularization zones, engaging in interactive activities, quizzes, and check-ins, immersing themselves in the practical achievements of meteorology empowering various industries.

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Image: Scene from the event, photo by Li Biao, Daily Economic News

At the scene, a device called “Lightning Locator” attracted many visitors’ attention. It is understood that the Lightning Locator is an instrument used to detect the intensity, direction, frequency, and changes of lightning strikes.

Image: Total Lightning Locator, photo by Li Biao, Daily Economic News

What is the purpose of collecting lightning data? According to现场工作人员, the data reported to the China Meteorological Administration can be used in urban planning, aerospace, petrochemical industries, forest fire prevention, and other fields. “For example, if lightning data for a city over three consecutive years shows frequent lightning in a certain area, that area should be avoided when planning hospitals, gas stations, etc. Also, if a certain period during the year has high lightning activity, large-scale events should be avoided.”

The staff further explained that in forest fire prevention, lightning data can help locate lightning strikes and fire sources for extinguishing.

The China Meteorological Administration states that it continues to enhance global monitoring, forecasting, service, and governance capabilities. Its Fengyun meteorological satellites are used by international users in 133 countries and regions. The disaster emergency response time for key areas along the “Belt and Road” has been reduced to 45 minutes. The “Mazu” early warning system, a nationwide initiative, has been implemented in Mongolia, Djibouti, and other countries, supporting cloud-based applications in over 40 countries worldwide.

Cover image source: Photo by Li Biao, Daily Economic News