Field Survey Report – Locations identified for the deployment of IMD’s AWS in Kerala

The report presents the findings of Phase 2 of a field survey conducted by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) to identify suitable locations for the deployment of Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) and additional rain gauge stations across Kerala. The survey was initiated in response to gaps in the state’s weather observation network highlighted by the 2018 floods, and follows a formal request by the Government of Kerala to the Government of India to enhance meteorological monitoring capacity through the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Building on Phase 1, which reviewed existing manual rain gauge sites, Phase 2 involved extensive field verification across all districts to assess land availability, technical feasibility, and site suitability for AWS installation. The survey was carried out between June and August 2019 with support from District Disaster Management Authorities and consultations with line departments such as irrigation, electricity, water supply, and dam operators. The report documents detailed site-level information, including ownership, coordinates, land dimensions, access conditions, and operational considerations, resulting in the identification and prioritization of additional locations to meet the state-wide allocation of 100 AWS units.

Overall, the report supports efforts to strengthen Kerala’s disaster preparedness and early warning systems by expanding real-time rainfall and weather data coverage, particularly in flood- and landslide-prone areas. By systematically identifying suitable sites across diverse geographic and hazard contexts, the assessment contributes to improved hydro-meteorological monitoring, more accurate forecasting, and enhanced decision-making for disaster risk management and response planning at state and district levels.