Assessment of multi-element meteorological observation network layout in Guangxi based on GIS spatial analysis

Meteorological observation provides the basis for accurate forecasting and disaster prevention, where scientific and systematic evaluation methods of observation networks are essential for optimizing their spatial layout. Using ground multi-element observation stations and weather radar station information, based on GIS Thiessen polygon method, rolling demand assessment principle, and weather radar network coverage evaluation algorithm, to evaluate the station control area, horizontal resolution, grid coverage, and weather radar network coverage capability of Guangxi's ground observation station network in 2015 and 2025.The result show that: (1) In 2025, both the control area of surface observation stations in Guangxi and their average spacing to the nearest neighboring station showed a significant decrease compared to 2015. The horizontal resolution of all observed meteorological elements meets the corresponding threshold values set by the World Meteorological Organization's Observing Systems Capability Analysis and Review Tool (OSCAR), though a considerable gap remains from achieving its breakthrough targets. (2) Applying the WMO OSCAR high-resolution numerical forecast threshold criteria for grid-based assessment of Guangxi's surface observation network, station distribution demonstrates adequate coverage across most grid cells, with particularly dense clustering in metropolitan and coastal zones. However, significant spatial gaps persist when evaluated against the more stringent OSCAR breakthrough targets.(3) The coverage rate of Guangxi's weather radar mosaic network at 0.5km, 1km and 2km altitude levels demonstrated marked enhancement in 2025 compared to 2015 levels., reaching 36.90%, 80.64%, and 96.88% respectively. Due to the influence of complex terrain, there are still many blind spots at a height of 0.5km. The coverage in southern Guangxi is better than that in northern, and full coverage is basically achieved at a height of 2km south of latitude 23°N. Therefore, the reliability of radar networking in quantitative precipitation estimation in southern Guangxi is relatively high. However, there are still some detection gaps in northern Guangxi regions such as Guilin, Baise, and Hechi, and the layout of high-altitude areas still needs to be optimized to enhance monitoring capabilities. The evaluation results effectively identified blind spots in meteorological monitoring in Guangxi, providing key support for optimizing station network layout, filling radar detection gaps, and enhancing regional disaster prevention and mitigation decision-making capabilities.