In a country frequently hit by typhoons, floods, and other natural calamities, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is harnessing advanced technology to improve disaster preparedness and save lives.
Revolutionizing weather forecasting
During the Handa Pilipinas: Handa CSFLU forum in San Fernando City, La Union, PAGASA introduced the Rainfall Warning System (RWS)—a color-coded alert system designed to provide clear and actionable information to communities about varying rainfall intensities categorized as yellow, orange, and red.
PAGASA Assistant Weather Services Chief Sharon Juliet Aruejo highlighted the crucial role of the Rainfall Warning System (RWS) in bridging the gap between technical weather forecasts and community action during her presentation at the Handa Pilipinas: Handa CSFLU forum.
“Through the Rainfall Warning System, we can deliver warnings in an accurate and understandable way. It’s a tool that empowers communities to make informed decisions,” Aruejo explained.
The RWS works alongside the Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal system, offering early warnings about wind intensities, helping communities prepare for both heavy rains and strong winds.
Bacnotan weather station upgrade
To strengthen forecasting in Northern Luzon, PAGASA is upgrading the Bacnotan Agrometeorological Station in La Union. Currently operating on an 8-hour schedule, the station will transition to 24/7 operations.
PAGASA Weather Specialist I, Mark Louis Vergara expressed confidence in the impact of the Bacnotan Station upgrade on disaster preparedness and response.
“This advancement means we can provide more precise and localized forecasts, which are critical for disaster risk reduction efforts in La Union and neighboring provinces,” Vergara said.
The upgraded station will feature Doppler radar systems, Himawari-8 satellite data, and numerical weather prediction models. These technologies enable real-time weather monitoring, allowing forecasters to predict storm paths and intensities more accurately, and issue early, targeted warnings.
Bridging science and community action
Despite technological advancements, PAGASA emphasizes the importance of community engagement and education. Training sessions during the La Union seminar provided LGU representatives and barangay officials with practical experience in issuing timely warnings and interpreting weather advisories.
Specifically, the hands-on training included exercises on reading and understanding color-coded rainfall advisories, simulating the issuance of local warnings based on PAGASA forecasts, and conducting disaster preparedness drills tailored to local risks.
“Forecasting tools are only as effective as the people who use them. It’s crucial to make weather information accessible and actionable at the community level,” Aruejo emphasized.
Building a resilient future
As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, PAGASA remains committed to advancing its technology and fostering collaboration with local stakeholders.
“Our goal is to save lives and minimize economic losses. By investing in advanced tools and empowering communities, we are making significant strides toward a safer, more resilient future,” Vergara said.
With the implementation of tools like the Rainfall Warning System, the upgraded Bacnotan Station, PAGASA is setting a benchmark for disaster preparedness in the Philippines.
As these initiatives take root, Northern Luzon and the rest of the country can look forward to a future where communities are well-equipped to face the challenges of nature’s unpredictability. (CCMT/AIHR/PIA Region 1)
