The Hong Kong Observatory has introduced new high-tech features to strengthen the functions of the automatic weather station on Waglan Island. They include a new visibility meter, two sets of network cameras and a backup system.

The new devices cost $130,000 in total and provide data critical for the early alert of inclement weather associated with tropical cyclones and rainbands approaching Hong Kong from the South China Sea.

Modern meteorology: A new visibility meter, two sets of network cameras and a backup system have been installed at the Waglan Island automatic weather station providing real-time data and weather photos.

Closer monitoring

The Observatory's Senior Scientific Officer Edwin Ginn said the advanced visibility meter has a range of up to 50km and records data minute-by-minute which is relayed to the Observatory's headquarters in Tsim Sha Tsui. The high-resolution network cameras allow surveillance of weather conditions around the island.

"The equipment enhances the Observatory's ability to monitor the weather over southeastern Hong Kong waters, and helps safeguard the safety of the marine community and vessel traffic."

To improve reliability, a backup system has been installed allowing two stations to operate in tandem and yet totally independently with separate weather sensors and on-site data storage. Real-time data is even relayed back to the Observatory via independent routes.

Mr Ginn said a third similar visibility meter will be installed at Sai Wan Ho to monitor the weather in Eastern parts of Hong Kong.

The Waglan Island station has served as the Observatory's major outpost in weather monitoring since 1989.

To access visibility information click here, and for weather photos click here.