Jan 25 2011
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) declared that is has planned to deploy 10 sensors in five regions across the country that are affected by frequent landslides and excessive rainfall.
According to Graciano Yumul Jr., Pagasa official, over 22 cyclones are expected to occur in Philippines in 2011 and in view of this scenario, Pagasa will increase its efforts to monitor the country against landslide incidents. In 2008, the University of Philippines was commissioned by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to produce landslide sensors, which can warn local community about the upcoming disasters. Approximately P8 million was used to create the technology, Yumul informed.
Yumul further added that at present 10 sensors will be utilized for field test experiments. If the tests prove successful, then the landslide sensors will be introduced in all parts of the country. For the pilot test, two sensors will be installed in five areas. The devices will be installed under the ground. Two sensor devices have already been set up in Southern Leyte, while the remaining devices will be installed in Albay, Legazpi, Antipolo City and Baguio.
The sensors will be able to detect the earth’s movements that normally occur during excessive rainfall. During such incidents, Pagasa will warn the local governments about any impending disasters in a particular region.
Source: http://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/