The Shanghai Meteorological Bureau said it was taking steps to ensure 2010 World Expo festivities are not dampened by the weather.

The Expo, which will take place from May to October, could be hit by the plum rains, soaring summer temperatures or seasonal typhoons, the bureau said.

The bureau is planning to control the climate through cloud seeding or cloud removal.

"In 1993, Shanghai tried artificial rain removal during the East Asia Games and received a satisfactory result," said Tang Xu, director of the bureau.

The specific program of artificial rain removal or making, however, is still under discussion with the meteorological bureaus of other provinces.

Water spray devices and sun shades will also be used within the Expo site.

"If it is extremely hot in the summer, we will suggest to adjust the exhibition hall's opening time to avoid the hottest time of the day," Tang said.

If a typhoon or other storm hits, Tang said that early forecasting would be important.

"We will use satellites to track the typhoon, and make a forecast as soon as possible," Tang said. "Thus the Expo site may have enough time to prepare for it."

During the World Expo, the bureau will provide special forecasts to visitors and organizers that will include air quality and ultraviolet intensity, Tang said.

(Shanghai Daily September 8, 2006)