DOST vows to improve delivery of weather updates

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has vowed to improve further its delivery of weather information after a study found that public knowledge on weather, climate and disaster issues has remained insufficient.

The study, conducted by the Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII) and Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) strategic communications team, found that people still believe that weather information remains too scientific and too general so people could hardly comprehend it.

The study discovered that the 

need to simplify the delivery of weather information does not only involve translating vital information from English to the vernacular but also making the people understand terminologies and concepts.

It was also revealed that majority of people rely on television as the primary source of weather information, followed by radio broadcasts, newspapers, the Internet, mobile phones and barangay officials.

The study, titled “Understanding and Appreciation of Weather Information,” was presented during the 81st National Research Council of the Philippines general membership assembly and international scientific conference held at the Manila Hotel last March 26 to 27.

It was conducted to measure and understand the public’s perception of and familiarization with weather information and delivery.