2026 World Meteorological Day Activities Launched, Fengyun Meteorological Satellites Have International Users Across 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 March 23 marks the 66th World Meteorological Day, with the theme “Observe Today’s Weather, Protect Tomorrow’s Home.”

Focusing on this year’s theme, the China Meteorological Administration mobilized various sectors of society to address extreme weather monitoring, forecasting, early warning, disaster prevention and mitigation, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and meteorological empowerment for high-quality economic and social development. Meteorological departments across the country organized diverse science popularization activities tailored to local characteristics, targeting different scenarios and audiences. These activities aim to promote meteorological science to government agencies, schools, rural areas, communities, and enterprises, enhancing the capacity of all levels of government and the public to prevent disasters, utilize climate resources scientifically, and continuously improve the brand influence, impact, and leadership of China’s meteorological science popularization.

On the day of the launch, 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, experiencing firsthand how meteorology empowers various industries.

[Image: Event scene photo, taken by Daily Economic News Reporter Li Biao]

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

[Image: Full Lightning Locator, taken by Daily Economic News Reporter Li Biao]

What is the purpose of collecting lightning data? According to现场工作人员, the data collected is reported to the China Meteorological Administration and can be used in urban planning, aerospace, petrochemical, forest fire prevention, and other fields. “For example, collecting lightning data for a city over three consecutive years might reveal that a certain area experiences frequent lightning. When planning the city, it’s better not to place hospitals or gas stations in those areas. Also, if a certain period during the year is identified as a high lightning activity season, large-scale events should be avoided.”

The staff further explained that in forest fire prevention, lightning data can help locate strike points and identify 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 Belt and Road regions has been reduced to 45 minutes. The “Mazu” early warning system, a nationwide initiative, has been implemented in Mongolia, Djibouti, and other countries, supporting over 40 countries in cloud-based applications worldwide.

[Cover image source: Photo by Daily Economic News Reporter Li Biao]