Localized prediction of weather-related risks is possible

Localized predictions of weather-related risks are possible through Automated Weather System (AWS) installed by Weather Philippines Foundation (WPF) in different cities and municipalities across the Philippines.

The data coming from AWS is transmitted through short messaging service (SMS) and general packet radio system (GPRS) and processed by WPF and then uploaded in the website www.weather.com.ph where the general public can check the weather condition in their area by typing the city where they are located.

WPF Sustainability Officer, Kaye Rosario said during the turn-over of AWS units to the different Local Government Units in Mindanao that they are not competing with PAGASA but only supplements data for public consumption. They are looking into the possible ways on how they can link with the government agency.

“PAGASA is the official agency that can issue weather bulletins,” Rosario said during the ceremony held August 1, at Hotel Vicente in F. Torres St., Davao City.

The following are the recipients of the assigned AWS to be installed in their respective areas: Bayugan, Batac, Baybay, Bogo, Borongan, Cabadbaran, Carcar, Catbalogan, El Salvado, Guihulngan, Lamitan, Mati, Naga, Tabuk, Tandag, Tayabas.

In Davao City, WPF has installed AWS in the two SM Malls (Lanang and Ecoland) and the City Hall of Davao, and other areas in the metro. The device can detect the weather condition a radius of 2 to 5 kilometers in urban areas and 10 to 15 kilometers in open fields and rural areas, with 98% accuracy rate.

WPF is targeting to deploy 1,000 AWS in the Philippines. So far in two years, they have installed almost 500 devices, which cost $ 3,000 or almost P 150,000 excluding cost of maintenance. The device will still be a property of WPF and the LGU will be the assignee to do the installation and maintenance.

Training on how to install and operate AWS was also done last Aug. 1, prior to the turn-over.

“Through this, we are empowering the LGUs,” Rosario said.

WPF is also conducting trainings dubbed as Weather 101 for groups and media practitioners to let them have a better idea about the information contained in the weather.com.ph website. (@johnfrancesf)