At 4,534 meters above sea level, the Tuotuohe Meteorological Station in northwest China plays a critical role in monitoring climate change, providing vital data from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, often referred to as the "roof of the world." Established in 1956, the station has been instrumental in gathering meteorological data that aids in understanding global weather patterns and climate shifts.
On a brisk morning, Shi Kaihao, a 28-year-old meteorologist, can be seen braving the harsh winds as he drags a two-meter-diameter hydrogen balloon across the rugged terrain. This task, performed twice daily with the help of his colleagues, involves filling the balloon with hydrogen and attaching sensors that measure temperature, humidity, wind speed, and other atmospheric conditions. Once ready, they release the balloon into the thin air, a challenging endeavor given that the oxygen content at this altitude is less than 60 percent of that at sea level and wind speeds can reach up to 17 meters per second.
Despite the formidable conditions, which include sub-zero temperatures even in spring, the team remains dedicated to their work. "Sometimes, some of our slighter colleagues get dragged by the wind while running to release the balloon, ending up thrown hard to the ground," Shi remarked, highlighting the physical challenges they face.
Miao Peilin, the 36-year-old head of the station, emphasized the importance of their upper-air detection measurements, stating that they contribute significantly to global meteorological data exchange. "Despite various hardships, we know that our meteorological observation data is of great significance," he said. The station currently employs nine workers, all aged between 25 and 30, who not only conduct weather monitoring but also engage in fieldwork that includes permafrost monitoring, temperature measurements, and ecological surveys.
Over the years, the Tuotuohe Meteorological Station has seen significant changes. Wang Shengcang, who directed the observation center at Golmud's meteorological bureau for 12 years starting in 1993, recalls the difficulties of the past. "Back then, before the railway line had been built, we had to hitch a lift on trucks to get to the station from the city proper. The trip could take up to two days if it was snowy, and supplies were often scarce, consisting mainly of potatoes and cabbage," he shared. Now, thanks to advancements in infrastructure, the working conditions have improved dramatically, with makeshift facilities replaced by brick-and-mortar houses and dormitories equipped with oxygen supplies.
Technological advancements have also transformed their operations. In 2023, the new BeiDou satellite-based navigation sounding system became operational, allowing for real-time acquisition of atmospheric data during the ascent, float, and descent stages of weather balloons. This enhancement significantly boosts their vertical atmospheric sounding capabilities, improving meteorological support for disaster prevention and mitigation.
Data collected from the Tuotuohe Meteorological Station reveals alarming trends over the past 30 years. The average annual temperature in the area has risen by 1.1 degrees Celsius, while annual precipitation has increased by 13.8 percent. Additionally, the number of sandstorm days has decreased from an average of 11.1 days per year to just 5 days compared to the period from 1971 to 2000. Zhang Chengxiang, head of Golmud's meteorological bureau, attributed this decrease in sandstorms and strong winds to ecological conservation efforts, including desert control and grassland restoration in nearby regions like the Sanjiangyuan, which contains the headwaters of the Yangtze, Yellow, and Lancang rivers.
"The data serves as strong evidence of climate change on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and provides important references for permafrost research and ecological management on the plateau," Zhang stated, underscoring the critical role that the station plays in understanding the impacts of climate change.
In addition to their scientific work, the station has fostered a unique community among its staff. Miao noted that many young workers struggle with the isolation that comes with life at such a high altitude, often feeling overwhelmed by the solitude. "After working here for a while, even traffic in the city feels scary," he said, reflecting on how the remote environment can alter one’s perception of normalcy.
To combat the solitude, the station has adopted a cat, which provides companionship and brings some joy to their otherwise routine-filled days. This small gesture illustrates the human side of scientific work, where camaraderie and support can make a significant difference in the lives of those stationed in such extreme conditions.
The Tuotuohe Meteorological Station stands as a testament to human resilience and dedication in the face of climate challenges. As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, the data collected from this high-altitude station will continue to serve as an essential resource for scientists and policymakers alike, highlighting the urgent need for global cooperation in addressing these pressing issues.
As the team at the Tuotuohe Meteorological Station continues their vital work, their contributions will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping our understanding of climate dynamics and the future of our planet.
