The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) has formally launched its new mobile platform, the PAGASA National Hydro-Meteorological Observing Network (PANaHON Mobile Application), aimed at improving public access to weather and climate information.
In a statement on Monday, PAGASA said the launch of the app is part of its commitment to modernizing weather and climate services.
“As part of its commitment to modernizing weather and climate services, DOST-PAGASA formally launches the PAGASA National Hydro-Meteorological Observing Network (PANaHON) Mobile Application, a new digital platform designed to provide greater accessibility to hydrometeorological information and observing network data,” PAGASA said in a press release.
The PANaHON mobile app features an interactive map that provides near real-time weather data, allowing users to monitor current conditions across different areas.
It also delivers direct notifications to users’ mobile devices, including tropical cyclone bulletins, thunderstorm and heavy rainfall warnings, and flood advisories.
“Users can receive timely notifications directly on their mobile device, including tropical cyclone bulletins, thunderstorm and heavy rainfall warnings, and flood advisories,” the agency said.
Through its location-based feature, users can receive alerts relevant to their selected areas of interest. The app also offers hourly forecasts and a five-day weather outlook, enabling users to track updated forecasts for pinned locations.
“Hourly forecasts and 5-day weather outlook feature allow users to check the latest weather in their pinned locations and so they can plan and decide ahead,“ it said.
According to the bureau, the mobile application will serve as a complementary platform with the built-in weather forecasts of smartphones.
“As the Philippines remains among the world's most vulnerable prone countries, DOST-PAGASA emphasizes that preparedness is a shared responsibility among government agencies, local communities, institutions, and individual citizens,” the agency added.
PAGASA also reiterated its "commitment to continue fulfilling its mandate of protecting lives, livelihoods, and properties through public awareness initiatives, timely weather and climate advisories, and the use of innovative digital tools."
