Sabarimala Pilgrimage Gets Dedicated Weather Service from IMD

For the first time, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has introduced a localized weather forecasting system for the Sabarimala pilgrimage, similar to those used for the Amarnath and Char Dham yatras. The IMD announced the installation of three rain gauges at key locations Sannidhanam, Pamba, and Nilakkal.

Introduction of Localized Forecasting

• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has introduced a localized weather forecasting system for the Sabarimala pilgrimage, similar to those for Amarnath and Char Dham yatras.
• The initiative is designed to provide accurate and timely weather information to the pilgrims visiting the Sabarimala temple.

Rain Gauges Installed

• IMD has installed three rain gauges at key locations: Sannidhanam, Pamba, and Nilakkal.
• These gauges will provide a three-day weather forecast, which will soon be upgraded to real-time weather bulletins known as “nowcasts.”

Temperature Monitoring

• The IMD also plans to install temperature gauges in the region to monitor the challenges posed by rising temperatures and high humidity during dry spells.

Collaboration with Pathanamthitta District Administration

• The weather forecasting initiative follows a request from the Pathanamthitta district administration, seeking real-time weather updates due to the region’s vulnerability to extreme rainfall.
• The collaboration includes training local district personnel to collect data from the rain gauges.

Potential for Future Upgrades

• While initially considering Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) for Sabarimala, the IMD opted for rain gauges to expedite the process.
• A permanent weather monitoring facility is under consideration to enhance the forecast system in the future.

Integration with AI Chat Bot

• The weather forecasts will soon be integrated into the “Swamy AI Chat Bot” app, launched by the state government.
• The app, which provides assistance in six languages, will offer real-time weather updates for pilgrims.

Safety Measures

• The path from Pamba to Sannidhanam, featuring small streams and the Pamba River, is a focus for safety due to its vulnerability to flooding.
• The 2018 Kerala floods caused severe damage to the region, highlighting the need for effective weather monitoring.