Weather Update Mobile Software: An Intervention for Efficient and Timely Weather Advisory in Mindanao

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

For the past years, Philippines has experienced over 20 catastrophic tropical cyclones every year according to Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). Philippines is known for its vulnerability to hazards especially typhoons (de la Cruz, 2016). PAGASA Regional Services Division of Mindanao (PRSD-Mindanao) is responsible for the analysis and information dissemination of Mindanao Island's weather conditions. However, the agency had a major problem in their weather information dissemination. Thus, the researchers who were also student trainees at the said agency conducted a research to address the pressing problem. The researchers were able to make a mobile software which will help the weather forecasters improve the timeliness and efficiency of the weather advisory.

METHODS

This study uses a descriptive-developmental research design which made use of rapid application development for the designing and creating the current mobile software. Tools used for the development are Android Studio (version 181.5056338), Photoshop CS6, Google Earth Pro, and BlueStacks 4. The software was tested and evaluated by the forecasters of PRSD-Mindanao in terms of efficiency and timeliness. The researchers also provided a 5-point Likert Scale evaluation form to assess the two factors of using the software.

RESULTS

The perceived positive effect of using the mobile software is generally highly effective (XÌ„ = 4.94, SD = 0.02). Furthermore, results show that the efficiency level of the mobile software is very efficient (XÌ„ = 4.92, SD = 0.08). Results also show that the level of timeliness of the mobile software is very timely (XÌ„ = 4.96, SD = 0.04). Henceforth, the mobile software is currently being utilized by the agency in disseminating weather advisories.

DISCUSSIONS

The results of the evaluation and utilization feedback of forecasters show that PRSD-Mindanao has improved their way of disseminating the weather information to the public with the use of the current mobile software. The mobile software helped the forecasters to create a weather advisory that is efficient with less technical error. Moreover, the mobile software also proved its capability to provide faster way of disseminating weather information.