Forecasters confident of weathering all storms

In the emergency plan, a precipitation level of more than 5 mm is not suitable for marathon runners, while the limit for track and field venues is 3 mm.

"Conditions we may consider normal are highly influential for sporting events that are sensitive and vulnerable to weather risks," said Luo Hui, deputy head of the Shaanxi Meteorological Bureau.

She added that the forecasters need to take more details into consideration than people may realize.

"For example, on windy days, we provide information to suggest reinforcing the equipment at venues. On rainy days, even those with just a little precipitation, we need to remind organizers to prepare rainproofing for spectators and shelters at the ticket checking point," she said.

In August 2019, a meteorological center established specifically for the games and comprising 65 staff members from across the province began operations in Xi'an, Shaanxi's capital.

The team is supported by the work of other forecasters in the province and by the National Meteorological Center.

The experts provided hourly weather forecasts for organizers and athletes on the day before the games began.