- Vodafone collaborates with River Severn Partnership to trial rain forecasting technology.
- The project uses Vodafone’s mobile network to provide accurate rainfall data.
What happened: Innovative rain forecasting trial
Vodafone has partnered with the River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region (RSPAWIR) and Wireless DNA to trial a new rain forecasting technology. The initiative aims to use Vodafone’s mobile network as an environmental sensor to monitor rainfall, providing more accurate and timely data. This trial is particularly significant for communities along the River Severn, which have a long history of flooding.
The project will enhance early warning systems and improve flood defences, potentially reducing the £230m annual cost of flood damage in the region. The technology works by monitoring signal variations caused by precipitation, using microwave links as virtual rain gauges. This method offers greater accuracy than traditional radar systems and provides detailed, localised insights into rainfall patterns.
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Why it is important
The partnership between Vodafone and the River Severn Partnership is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it addresses the critical issue of flooding in the River Severn catchment area, which has caused extensive damage to homes and businesses. By using Vodafone’s mobile network to monitor rainfall, the project provides precise data that can enhance early warning systems and improve flood defences.
This initiative not only supports local communities but also demonstrates the potential for mobile networks to serve as environmental sensors. The project has recently won the Future Networks Award for Radical Breakthroughs, highlighting its innovative approach to weather forecasting and flood management. This collaboration underscores the importance of leveraging advanced technology to address environmental challenges and improve resilience in the face of climate change.
