The Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) has officially launched its newest digital platform, the PANaHON mobile application, to improve public access to vital weather and climate data.
According to the state weather bureau’s announcement on Monday, the development of the application is part of its continuous initiative to upgrade its meteorological capabilities.
“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,” the bureau noted in a press release.
The application features an interactive map that delivers near real-time updates, allowing users to track weather patterns across the Philippines. It also operates as an immediate alert system during severe weather anomalies.
“Users can receive timely notifications directly on their mobile device, including tropical cyclone bulletins, thunderstorm and heavy rainfall warnings, and flood advisories,” the agency explained.
Equipped with location-based technology, the app enables individuals to get tailored alerts for their specific areas. Furthermore, it offers hourly forecasts alongside a five-day outlook to help the public plan daily activities safely.
“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,” PAGASA stated.
The agency noted that the PANaHON app is meant to complement the built-in weather applications already available on modern smartphones.
Given the country’s extreme susceptibility to climate disasters, PAGASA emphasized that disaster preparedness requires a unified effort.
“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 bureau added.
PAGASA closed by reiterating its core mission to protect the Filipino people through advanced technological solutions and proactive public information campaigns.
“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.”