China Officially Hands Over AI-Powered Weather Early Warning System to Nepal

Dragon Media News Desk

China has officially handed over MAZU-Nepal, an advanced artificial intelligence-powered weather monitoring and early warning system, to Nepal. The system, initially made available for trial use following the devastating floods and landslides of August 26, was formally delivered during the Second China–Central Asia Meteorological Cooperation Forum in Urumqi, Xinjiang, on September 22, following its successful trial operation.

According to the China Meteorological Administration, China provided continuous meteorological assistance to Nepal after the disaster. Meteorological experts from the two countries conducted joint consultations through video conferencing, while weather forecasts and early warning information were shared to support disaster response. MAZU-Nepal was made available for online trial operation on August 29, three days after the disaster.

During ongoing rescue operations, the China Meteorological Administration used MAZU-Nepal to prepare daily weather monitoring and forecasting reports. Nepali officials also gained online access to the system and used the information it provided for joint consultations and disaster response activities.

MAZU-Nepal integrates observational data from China’s FENGYUN meteorological satellites with Chinese AI forecasting systems, including Fengqing and Fengshun. The system provides high-resolution weather monitoring and rapidly updated forecasts. It has been customized to reflect Nepal’s geographical conditions, disaster characteristics, infrastructure and available meteorological data.

Hua Wenli, a senior engineer at the Beijing-based World Meteorological Centre’s operational office, described MAZU-Nepal as more than an online early warning platform. The system is intended to serve as an important instrument for strengthening Nepal’s modern meteorological forecasting and early warning capabilities.

The China Meteorological Administration has announced plans to support the deployment of MAZU FENGYUN satellite-based AI equipment and related systems in Nepal during the next phase of cooperation. The initiative includes specialized training for Nepali technical personnel, the establishment of bilateral data-sharing arrangements and regular joint consultations on weather forecasting and disaster management.

Chen Zhenlin, head of the China Meteorological Administration, emphasized the importance of meteorological early warning systems for economic and social development, public welfare and the protection of lives and property. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to expanding the international application of MAZU as a technology serving the global public good and helping countries strengthen their early warning capabilities.

The cooperation between Nepal and China also supports the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All initiative. For Nepal, which faces recurring risks from extreme rainfall, landslides and flooding across its mountainous terrain, the integration of satellite observations, AI-powered forecasting and local technical expertise is expected to strengthen disaster risk reduction, preparedness and response.