Linking Weather Radars and Rain Gauges for Highly Accurate Proprietary Weather Forecast Models in Bangkok
Weathernews Inc. supports the production of highly accurate local rainfall forecasts and nowcasts that will help for early detection of weather-related disasters, leading to early warning and response in the city of Bangkok.
Description
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is facing significant risks from weather-related disasters. As one of the fastest-sinking cities in the world, Bangkok is particularly vulnerable due to its location barely above, and in some places below, sea level. This situation is exacerbated by rapid urbanization and severe land subsidence, which have put Bangkok on the list of the most vulnerable cities in Southeast Asia. The city's susceptibility to climate change is primarily felt along the Chao Phraya River region, crucial for both Bangkok and the country's agriculture. Early warnings and response are crucial in mitigating impact from weather-related disasters.
For this reason, Weathernews Inc. (WNI) and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) are working together to provide highly accurate local rainfall forecasts and nowcasts by applying the rainfall amount and area forecasting models and technology operated by WNI and applying the observation data owned by the BMA. This technology will be used by both parties to predict flooding risks and will contribute to reducing the risk of natural disasters and strengthening resilience in Bangkok. The Bangkok water department has started applying a newly developed forecast model for their operations in minimizing impact from flooding.
Did the Sendai Framework change or contribute to changes in your activities/organization? If so, how?
Although Weathernews has claimed its first and most important mission as helping people prepare against weather-related events for four decades since its establishment, the Sendai Framework has helped increase awareness across the global community that measures can and should be taken to protect people and livelihoods. There is still much to do, but this is an important step in the right direction.
What led you to make this commitment/initiative?
What was your position before making this Voluntary Commitment / prior to the Sendai Framework?
Weathernews Inc. has been working to build resilience of communities through weather and climate forecasting for nearly four decades. This commitment has helped define our mission and purpose in bold that naturally connected us with other groups like BMA. We are excited to leverage our expertise and experience to provide the most reliable weather information to reduce the damage caused by weather phenomena for communities around the globe through such partnerships.
Deliverables and Progress report
Deliverables
Deliverables are the end-products of the initiative/commitment, which can include issuance of publications or knowledge products, outcomes of workshops, training programs, videos, links, photographs, etc.
Forecast precipitation phenomena for the next three hours at five-minute intervals, mainly in Bangkok, using weather radar and rain gauge data obtained from the BMA, and provide the data to the BMA.
Organizations and focal points
Implementing Organization(s)
Focal points
