Ningbo develops an ocean observation system to ensure the success of sailing competitions of the Hangzhou Asian Games. [Photo/Tianmu News] 

Ningbo, Zhejiang province has completed the construction of an ocean observation system to ensure the smooth operation of sailing competitions of the upcoming Hangzhou Asian Games.

The Xiangshan Asian Games Sailing Center in Ningbo will host the sailing competitions of the Hangzhou Asian Games, which are set to start in September. Timely and accurate forecasts on ocean conditions are important for the success of the competitions.

In 2021, the Ningbo Bureau of Natural Resources and Planning started developing an ocean observation system for the sailing competition area of the Asian Games. In the early stages of development, Ningbo conducted several in-depth surveys of the sea area, including the sea bed's topography and environment, to create a solid database for the system.

Based on the data, a complete and dynamic observation system consisting of original observation facilities, newly-added buoys, ground wave radars, and video surveillance has been built. It can observe various elements, including seawater temperatures, salinity, waves, ocean current, wind, temperatures, air pressure, and precipitation.

In addition to forecast services offered during the competitions, it also provides alerts about disasters and floating track predictions in emergencies.