More accurate forecasts seen with new Doppler radar–DOST chief

Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The advanced Doppler radar recently installed in Catanduanes will enable the weather bureau to provide more accurate forecasts in some of the most typhoon-battered regions of the country, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said Friday.

Science Secretary Mario Montejo also said two more Doppler radars would be installed within the next two years to complement the new Catanduanes radar: one in Aparri, Cagayan in December and the other in Guiuan, Samar in September 2013.

“The Doppler radar serves as a sentinel. It is always on guard to provide valuable info on incoming typhoon. Its installation in a highly strategic location like in Bato, Catanduanes is very vital to
the government’s disaster preparedness and mitigation program,” said Montejo in a statement.

The P580-million radar, funded through a grant from the Japan International Cooperation Agency, was installed Thursday in Catanduanes, considered a strategic location for the weather reading equipment.

DOST said the new radar would enable the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration “to detect and track rain-clouds and potential thunderstorms more accurately.”

The radar will be able to monitor weather disturbances headed for the Bicolandia, the Visayas and the western side of the Philippines.

Replacing a 48-year-old radar, the new Doppler could transmit more comprehensive data on weather monitoring, rainfall measurement and wind tracking in real-time, DOST said.

It was installed to face the Pacific Ocean and was located within the Bicol region, “where 90 percent of typhoons pass through every year.”

“The DOST is steadfast in its commitment to improve weather forecasting and timeliness of detecting weather conditions. It is our aim to minimize human casualty during weather disturbances,” Montejo said.