Core Viewpoint - The Hong Kong Government Flying Service (GFS) plays a crucial role in collecting meteorological data during tropical cyclones, enhancing weather forecasting and disaster warning capabilities for the Greater Bay Area and globally [1][2][6]. Group 1: GFS Operations - The GFS, also known as the "Flying Tiger Team," is responsible for various emergency services, including search and rescue, medical airlift, and firefighting [2]. - Since 2011, the GFS has collaborated with the Hong Kong Observatory to collect meteorological data during tropical cyclones, significantly improving the understanding of storm dynamics [2][3]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - In 2016, the GFS adopted a new method of deploying drop sondes from aircraft, marking a significant advancement in high-altitude meteorological monitoring [4]. - The use of drop sondes allows for safer and more comprehensive data collection compared to earlier low-altitude flight methods [4][5]. Group 3: Challenges and Risks - Despite technological improvements, GFS operations face challenges such as loss of visibility and potential hazards during flights through storm systems [5]. - An incident during Typhoon "Talley" in July 2023 highlighted the risks involved, where the aircraft sustained damage but successfully completed its mission [5]. Group 4: Collaborative Efforts - The GFS has transitioned from relying on foreign meteorological data to independently collecting and sharing data, enhancing local capabilities [6]. - A joint monitoring initiative with the China Meteorological Administration in 2024 exemplifies regional cooperation in typhoon observation, improving data richness and disaster preparedness [6].

Core Points - The article discusses the efforts of the Hong Kong Government Flying Service (GFS) in collecting meteorological data during typhoons, particularly focusing on the collaboration with the Hong Kong Observatory to enhance storm monitoring and prediction capabilities [1][2][7]. Group 1: Data Collection and Monitoring - Since 2011, the GFS has been deploying aircraft to collect meteorological data during tropical cyclones threatening Hong Kong, providing crucial support for weather forecasting and disaster warning [1][2]. - The GFS's collaboration with the Hong Kong Observatory began after a serendipitous encounter with Typhoon "Mora菲" in 2009, leading to the establishment of a systematic approach to collect tropical cyclone data [2][3]. - The introduction of drop sondes in 2016 marked a significant advancement in storm monitoring, allowing for high-altitude data collection that enhances the understanding of storm structures [4][7]. Group 2: Challenges and Innovations - The GFS faces numerous challenges during data collection, including severe weather conditions that can lead to reduced visibility and increased risk during flights [4][5]. - A notable incident during Typhoon "Talley" in 2023 highlighted the dangers faced by the GFS, where a glass panel was damaged during flight, yet the crew successfully executed emergency protocols to ensure safety and data collection [5][6]. - The transition from relying on foreign meteorological data to autonomous data collection represents a significant evolution in Hong Kong's meteorological capabilities, fostering regional collaboration and data sharing [7]. Group 3: Regional Collaboration - In 2024, a joint monitoring initiative with the China Meteorological Administration was implemented, showcasing a collaborative approach to typhoon observation that enhances data richness and predictive accuracy [7]. - The partnership aims to strengthen disaster prevention and mitigation efforts across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in meteorological research [7].