China Turns to AI for Faster Weather Forecasting as Extreme Weather Intensifies

China is increasingly turning to artificial intelligence to improve weather forecasting as extreme weather events place greater pressure on authorities to provide faster and more accurate warnings.

Chinese researchers and technology companies have developed AI-powered forecasting systems capable of analysing large amounts of atmospheric data and producing weather predictions significantly faster than traditional forecasting methods.

Among the systems being developed are Fengwu, created by Shanghai AI Lab, Pangu-Weather from Huawei, and Fuxi, developed by researchers at Fudan University. The technologies are designed to complement conventional numerical weather models while reducing the time and computing resources required to generate forecasts.

The growing focus on AI comes as China and other parts of Asia face increasingly severe weather risks, including typhoons, flooding, heavy rainfall and extreme heat. Faster forecasting could give authorities more time to evacuate vulnerable communities, protect infrastructure and prepare emergency response teams.

AI-based forecasting models can analyse patterns from large historical weather datasets and generate predictions within seconds. This speed could prove particularly useful during rapidly developing storms, when even a few additional hours of warning can make a significant difference.

However, experts say AI forecasting still has limitations. Models can face difficulties predicting rare or highly complex weather events, including the precise intensity and path of powerful storms. As a result, traditional numerical forecasting systems remain an important part of modern weather prediction.

China is therefore pursuing a combination of AI and conventional forecasting technologies rather than relying exclusively on artificial intelligence. The approach reflects a broader global effort to use AI to strengthen weather monitoring and improve preparedness for extreme weather.

With governments facing growing climate-related risks, advances in AI weather forecasting could become an increasingly important tool for disaster prevention, public safety and climate resilience.