#ICYMI: New PAGASA app puts real-time typhoon and flood alerts in Filipinos' pockets

The PANaHON Weather App lets users track near real-time conditions, get location-specific warnings, and check forecasts for their exact area.

Courtesy: DOST-STII

Real-time alerts for rainy season

A new mobile app from the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) is designed to help Filipinos track severe weather and prepare for typhoons and flooding, using real-time data delivered directly to their phones.

The PANaHON Weather App, short for PAGASA National Hydro-Meteorological Observing Network, was formally launched to give the public easier access to hydrometeorological information and observing network data.

Its interactive map shows near real-time weather data, and users can receive timely alerts on their devices, including tropical cyclone bulletins, thunderstorm and heavy rainfall warnings, and flood advisories, giving people advance notice of hazards headed their way.

A location feature lets users tailor alerts to specific areas they choose to monitor, rather than receiving generic nationwide warnings. The app also includes hourly forecasts and a 5-day outlook for pinned locations, helping users plan ahead, whether for a commute, securing a home, or deciding when to evacuate.

DOST-PAGASA launched the app during Typhoon and Flood Awareness Week (TFAW), held June 14 to 20, an annual observance under Presidential Proclamation No. 1535, series of 2008, meant to raise public awareness of typhoon, flood, and other weather-related hazards.

This year's TFAW carried the theme "Bagyo, Baha, Maghanda Tayo!" and highlighted science-based preparedness, early warning systems, and community action to reduce disaster risk amid a changing climate.

The PANaHON Weather App can be downloaded via the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.

What do you think?

Source: DOST-STII