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| PAGASA has launched a state-of-the-art Doppler Radar station in Laoang, Northern Samar, strengthening the Agency’s operational capacity in weather forecasting. Photo: PIA Northern Samar |
TACLOBAN CITY – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Administration (PAGASA) has recently inaugurated a state-of-the-art Doppler Radar station in Brgy. Binaticlan, Laoang, Northern Samar. The facility was officially launched on April 19, 2023, and is set to improve the agency's weather forecasting capabilities in the region.
PAGASA relies heavily on Doppler weather radar as an essential tool to create precise and timely weather forecasts, advisories, and warnings.
The system is designed to detect cloud motion and development and provides accurate thunderstorms and heavy rainfall warnings. It also helps determine the precise location of a tropical cyclone.
"The Laoang Doppler Radar strengthens the Agency's operational capacity and expands our physical resources," said Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
He added that the radar is strategically located in the eastern seaboard of the Philippine Archipelago and can cater to Quezon province, a portion of MIMAROPA Region, Region V, VI, VII, VIII, and a small part of Northern Mindanao.
Launching the 19th PAGASA-operated Doppler Radar is a milestone in environmental advocacy toward a positive change for the community and the country. Solidum commended the people behind the project and recognized DOST-PAGASA's vital role in disaster risk reduction and management initiatives in the country.
The newly operational P150-M Laoang Radar is a state-of-the-art C-Band Dual Polarization Solid-State Weather Radar that boasts a 480-km radial range, comparable to the one previously installed in Cataingan, Masbate, which was inaugurated and put into operation in August 2022.
The local government units have shown immense support for the project, recognizing the importance of science, technology, and innovation (STI) and their impact on the constituents' lives. —iTacloban (Source: PIA Northern Samar)