It turns out that mobile networks are good for more than just bringing a signal to phones and other devices – they can also be used to forecast rain.
You see, the wireless link between masts in mobile networks can be affected by precipitation, so if that data can be analysed, it can be used to predict imminent rainfall – by which we mean rain in between a few minutes and a few hours.
This sort of short-term forecast is known as a nowcast, and Vodafone is teaming up with the River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region (RSPAWIR) and Wireless DNA to trial using its mobile network for nowcasts.
And Vodafone’s network makes for an impressive environmental sensor, with the company claiming its data is more detailed than data from weather stations, and is more accurate than radar.
So, it’s easy to imagine that one day, mobile networks might double up as rain forecasters across the country and the globe.
The perfect place for a trial
For now though, this is just a trial, and it’s limited to the River Severn catchment area. That though is an area where rain forecasts are particularly important, as the River Severn frequently floods, to the point where an estimated £230 million per year is spent across this region to manage and mitigate damage to infrastructure caused by floods.
Nick Gliddon, Director, Vodafone Business UK, said: “Storms and extreme weather are becoming more frequent and destructive. Working with River Severn Partnership, we can use our cutting-edge technology to provide greater insight on weather forecasting and help mitigate the impact of extreme events.
“This example shows how, through innovation, our mobile network can have a real impact on not just the lives of residents who live and work in the River Severn area, but for communities across the UK.”
For this trial, Wireless DNA will monitor signal variations in Vodafone’s network, to work out which ones are caused by precipitation, and then share that data with the River Severn Partnership, so it has more warning of impending rainfall and potential floods.
This system isn’t being used alone, but – alongside the tools that were already available, like radar and rain gauges – Vodafone’s network could boost preparedness for floods.
James has been writing for us for over 10 years. Currently, he is Editorial Manager for our group of companies ( 3G.co.uk, 4G.co.uk and 5G.co.uk) and sub-editor at TechRadar. He specialises in smartphones, mobile networks/ technology, tablets, and wearables.
In the past, James has also written for T3, Digital Camera World, Clarity Media, Smart TV Radar, and others, with work on the web, in print and on TV. He has a film studies degree from the University of Kent, Canterbury, and has over a decade’s worth of professional writing experience.
