The Shanghai Meteorological Bureau said it was taking steps to
ensure 2010 World Expo festivities are not dampened by the
weather.
The Expo, which will take place from May to October, could be
hit by the plum rains, soaring summer temperatures or seasonal
typhoons, the bureau said.
The bureau is planning to control the climate through cloud
seeding or cloud removal.
"In 1993, Shanghai tried artificial rain removal during the East
Asia Games and received a satisfactory result," said Tang Xu,
director of the bureau.
The specific program of artificial rain removal or making,
however, is still under discussion with the meteorological bureaus
of other provinces.
Water spray devices and sun shades will also be used within the
Expo site.
"If it is extremely hot in the summer, we will suggest to adjust
the exhibition hall's opening time to avoid the hottest time of the
day," Tang said.
If a typhoon or other storm hits, Tang said that early
forecasting would be important.
"We will use satellites to track the typhoon, and make a
forecast as soon as possible," Tang said. "Thus the Expo site may
have enough time to prepare for it."
During the World Expo, the bureau will provide special forecasts
to visitors and organizers that will include air quality and
ultraviolet intensity, Tang said.
(Shanghai Daily September 8, 2006)