Short Range Climate Forecasts
BackgroundShort range climate forecasts, also known as seasonal forecasts or long-range weather forecasts, provide an indication of what the weather will generally be like next month, next season or next year (for example, a wetter year than before).
The need for a short range climate forecasting service is suggested by enquiries from the public, utility and retailing companies alike on the availability of weather information on a time scale of a month or more. For instance, if more than the usual number of tropical cyclones or above normal rainfall is expected, government departments and other organizations concerned can take advance action to minimize tropical cyclone damage and prevent flooding, inspect and fortify slopes as well as strengthen preparatory work on relief operations. Likewise, if a drier than normal condition is forecast, early measures can be taken by the relevant government departments to formulate fresh water supply strategy, to meet the expected increase in demand. More information can be found at: http://www.weather.gov.hk/wxinfo/season/en/wxinfo/season/intpret.htm  Figure 1. Potential applications of short range climate forecast
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