Using the surface observational data from 681 stations in the mainland of China from 1954 to 2001, the space-time distribution character and classification standard of the dust storms in China were analyzed, and some observation facts of the dust storms were given. Based on the analysis of the occurrence and development mechanism of the dust storms, the technology of the qualitative and quantitative forecast of the dust storm was discussed. It pointed out that the development orientation of warning technology on the quantity of dust storm is to develop the integrated forecast model system containing the atmosphere movement, the physical process of wind erosion and the information of land surface. Meanwhile, it indicated that the conventional monitoring network could not comprehensively monitor the occurrence and development of the dust storms. The specialized dust storm monitoring network including the factor of land surface environment and the factor of atmospheric physics and chemistry should be established, which is the root of the better understanding of the dust storm characters and the development of warning technology on the quantity of dust storm.