Weather watchers unite!

by

2008-11-20 10:06

Johan Terblanche, News24 User

The Western Cape Area is still trying to recover from the catastrophic floods that hit the region in November 2007, and again it was battered by very high seas, strong wind and heavy rain recently.

A Cape Town University study revealed recently that disasters are likely to occur again and Disaster Management of the respected areas and other parts of the country are warned to get ready. These sudden storms from which we are still struggling to recover, are no longer a rare occurrence, but a given reality that is due to continue. These storms are not just limited to the Western Cape Area, but stretch over various parts of South Africa.

With the summer stormy season approaching the gathering of real time weather and disaster data, photos and information are essential to monitor climate changes. The general public can play and important roll in being the eyes and ears in reporting real time Weather and Disaster Information.

As a service to the country and local communities, weather and disaster observers established the SA Weather and Disaster Information Service.(Sawdis) a voluntary- and non-profitable service, on the 8 October 2008 in Mossel Bay. The formation of this service directly stems from the fact that very little weather, storm or disaster statistics or for that matter none are readily available.

This situation can be attributed to a lack of relevant systems of observations, communication, information transfer and storage as well as education and administration, while the uneducated population in areas of our country is also a pertinent factor.

The country-wide service will assist with:

1. Observations
2. Communications
3. Information transfer and storage
4. Education and Administration
5. Early warning systems

Realising the need to improve the quality and quantity of surface observations relating to weather forecasts and climate predictions in South Africa, the SA Weather and Disaster Information Service proposed a pilot project in October 2008 that seeks to utilise the existing network of amateur radio operators and private weather stations operators to improve the reporting of meteorological observations.

Currently un-sponsored the overall objective of the Sawdis is to create a cooperative weather and disaster observer network to help the provinces and regions in South Africa to better prepare for drastic climate changes and natural disasters. Areas have been identified throughout South Africa, to erect automatic weather stations and the implementation of the project has already started.

The pilot project is designed to help national and regional roll players to prepare for extreme weather events and possible disasters well in advance.

The project seeks to significantly improve long-range and real time observations, while enhancing the capabilities of the following organisations: SA Weather Services. Global Weather Services, Hamnet, Search and Rescue, Working on Fire, Aeronautical Search and Rescue, National Sea Rescue Institute, SA Maritime Net, Disaster Management and Emergency Services and any other organisation that can use the data for non profit use.

Now is the time to render a service to your local community and this beautiful country, South Africa. The Sawdis need your support!

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