IMD to install automatic weather stations in schools, KV to get first

In a bid to create better awareness about various parameters of weather and the equipment used for it, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in a unique initiative will be installing Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) city schools.

Deputy Director General (surface instruments) RD Vashishta said that IMD had invested nearly Rs 20 lakh for the initiative. Our aim is to reach to as many schools as possible. We are talking to other schools as well in different parts of the city,'' he said.

The initiative will commence with Kendriya Vidyalaya Ganeshkhind followed by other schools in the city. From measurement of temperature, wind, humidity the AWS will help the children understand the concepts better.

Besides, IMD is also planning various activities for children that would help them increase their awareness level about weather. "IMD officers will also visit these schools to teach children about various weather parameters. Now, the awareness level is very low. With this initiative we hope to help children understand the concept of measurement of various parameters at a young age,' said Vashishta.

To install the equipment, a 10-meter into 10-meter area is required in the campuses. Besides LV school, the Magarpatta public school, Vidya Valley school, the Bharati Vidyapeeth school in Katraj and schools in Pimpri-Chinchwad area are also being considered by the IMD.

The IMD in their initiatives has also been working towards having AWS in every district in the state to help improve the quality of weather forecasting. The AWS is a portable weather station, which does not require an observer, and are equipped with telemeters to transmit the weather information. An AWS can collect data on rainfall, temperature, wind speed, wind direction and relative humidity and transmit the information via satellite to the ground stations.