The Experiment on Typhoon Intensity Change in Coastal Areas (EXOTICCA) is an international collaborative research project designed to address the escalating threat of typhoon disasters in the economically vital and densely populated coastal regions of the Asia-Pacific. Launched against the backdrop of global climate change and rapid urbanization, EXOTICCA aims to advance the scientific understanding and predictive capabilities for nearshore typhoons. The project focuses on innovating typhoon observation technologies, integrating multi-source observation platforms with artificial intelligence algorithms, developing new instruments and coordinated observation strategies, and investigating the physical mechanisms behind typhoon intensity changes to improve forecasts of their intensity and potential impact.
Project Development and Progress
- Initiated by China and jointly led by the Shanghai Typhoon Institute of CMA and the Hong Kong Observatory, EXOTICCA was launched in 2014 under the framework of the UNESCAP/WMO Typhoon Committee and is recognized as a WMO demonstration project.
- The first phase (EXOTICCA-I, 2014-2018) focused on developing novel detection technologies, such as rocket-borne dropsondes and buoy arrays, and conducting initial field observations.
- The second phase (EXOTICCA-II, 2019-2024) significantly expanded these efforts by establishing a comprehensive "land-sea-air-space" integrated observation system, incorporating advanced platforms like unmanned aircraft, uncrewed surface vessels, and lidar.
- A major milestone was the multi-platform, coordinated stereoscopic observation of Typhoons Sinlaku and Nangka in 2020. These efforts have yielded invaluable first-hand data, deepened the understanding of typhoon structures and microphysics, enhanced forecasting accuracy, and solidified China's leading role in international typhoon research and regional cooperation for disaster risk reduction.
- The project entered its third phase (EXOTICCA-III) in 2025.
From Scientific Research to Societal Resilience
The ultimate goal of EXOTICCA is to translate cutting-edge science into tangible societal benefits. The unique data collected will be used to significantly enhance the performance of numerical weather prediction models, leading to more accurate and reliable typhoon intensity forecasts. This will provide longer warning lead times for coastal communities, empower more effective disaster prevention and mitigation efforts, and ultimately help protect lives, property, and economic stability in one of the world's most typhoon-prone regions. EXOTICCA is a critical investment in building a more resilient future.