CE3013 - Engineering Hydrology

RECOGNIZING THE ROLE OF THE

METEOROLOGICAL DEPARTMENT IN WEATHER
FORECASTING AND CLIMATE PROJECTIONS IN
SRI LANKA

NAME : Kumara.W.H
INDEX NO : 220342V
COURSE : BSc Engineering
DATE OF PER : 06/03/2025
DATE OF SUB : 21/03/2025
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Kumara WH
220342V
06/03/2025 21/03/2025

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 06/03/2025

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1. The types of weather/climatic data collected and the instruments used by the
Department of Meteorology.

There are also different types of weather information, including real-time information, historical
information, and forecast information. Forecast information, on the other hand, utilizes models and
simulations to make predictions about future weather conditions from current observations.
Observation and collection of meteorological data is done by National Meteorological Centers.
Meteorological parameters to be observed, instrument used for and the unit of parameters are as specified
below.

Types of Data Measuring Instrument

Temperature Thermometer

Relative humidity Thermometer

Atmospheric pressure Barometer

Height of cloud base Ceilometer

Wind speed Anemometer

Wind direction Wind Vane

Precipitation Rain Gauge

Sunshine duration Sun Shine recorder

Irradiance Pyronometer
Visibility Transmissometer
Evaporation Evaporation Tank

Evaporation pan
Barograph

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 Anemometer Rain gauge AWS
and Wind Wane

Thermometers Soil Thermometers

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2. Find out the minimum number of rain gauge stations recommended for flood
forecasting (e.g., National Weather Service, USA guidelines). According to these
guidelines, calculate how many rain gauges would be required to cover the land
area of Sri Lanka

The National Weather Service, USA provides guidelines on the density of a rain gauge network. These
suggest that the minimum number of rain gauges, N, for a local flood warning network is:

N = A0.33

• A = Area in square miles

• N = Minimum number of Rain Gauges required

Total area to cover whole Sri Lanka is 65 610 km2.

(1 km2 = 0.386102 mi2)

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0.386102 mi2
A = 65 610 km ×
1 km2
A = 25,332.15222 mi2
➢ Minimum number of Rain Gauges required (N) = 25,332.152220.33
N = 28.39
⸫ N ≈ 29

3. Find out how many rain gauge stations are currently being maintained by the
Meteorological Department. Comment on the adequacy of this number for
reliable flood forecasting. Further, discuss the uneven spatial distribution of these
stations with possible reasons to have more or fewer stations in some areas.

Approximately 400 rain gauges are in the Meteorological observation network in Sri Lanka.
In that case;
➢ Figure 1 - Approximately 300 manual rain gauges managed by voluntary observers.

➢ Figure 2 - 100 Automated rain gauges covered by 5 major river basins.

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 • Kalu ganga

• Kelani ganga

• Gin ganga 5 Major river basins in Sri Lanka

• Nilwala ganga

• Aththanagalu oya

Figure 1 Figure 2
Data – Once time per day Data – Every 10 minutes

Also,
➢ Figure 3 - 24 Meteorological Stations ( )

• Head office – Colombo

• Airport stations – 03
• Regional offices – 20

Figure 3

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4. Summarize the importance of the consistency of meteorological data with respect
to weather forecasting and its engineering/hydrological applications.
Weather forecasting
• Accuracy of data:
Consistent data helps improve the accuracy of weather forecasting by providing reliable inputs to
numerical weather prediction models. Forecasts are essential for daily activities, disaster planning,
and crop scheduling.
• Data Assimilation:
Meteorological data assimilation combines observations and model forecasts to produce a more
accurate description of the atmosphere. Consistent data ensures that the assimilation process is
effective and leading to more accurate short-term and long-term forecasts.
Engineering and Hydrological Applications
• Infrastructure Design:
Engineers employ accurate weather data to design buildings, bridges, and roads that are strong
enough to endure severe weather events such as storms and floods.
• Water Resource Management:
Proper data is required to manage water resources effectively. It helps predict rainfall, river flows,
and ground water levels, which are critical for irrigation, providing drinking water, and flood control.
• Flood Forecasting and Control:
Authenticity of meteorological data plays a crucial role in forecasting and management of floods.
Correct forecasts lead to early warning and activation of mitigation measures for the safety of lives
and property.
• Reservoir Design:
Accurate meteorological data helps in forecasting the reservoir's capacity by estimating the inflow
and outflow regimes, evaporation, and rainfall1. This helps the reservoir to provide water in dry
periods and manage water abundance in wet periods.

5. Mention the main steps in weather forecasting. Further, briefly explain the recent
technological developments and future directions in forecasting.

Steps in weather forecasting:

Use
Analyze the Check for Prepare the
Verify Extrapolate Use NWP Clymatology
forecast
data continuity & experience

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 Satellite images from INSAT-3D & HIMAWARI

➢ In precent, Meteorological Department use GEO satellite data and Products for get better idea than
local observation gauge network and who receiving the satellite data and product through the CMAC.
As there are no satellite function in Sri Lanka, they use main two satellite for that.

1) INSAT – 3D (INDIA)
• INSAT satellite products are accessing through IMD website.
• IMD Rapid system and MOSDAC system being used to analysis of those data with other
observation and NWP output.

2) HIMAWARI (JAPAN)
• HIMAWARI satellite data and products are accessing through satellite receiving system.
• SATAID software being used to analysis of those data with other observation and NWP output.

➢ Also, they launched mobile app which Dialog powers ‘Sayuru’ location-based free National Weather
Alert and Warning Service for Day-boat Fishermen.

➢ In future, Department of Meteorology expect to install Radar measurements (LIDAR, NEXRAD) to

collect more accurate data with updated technology.

6) Discuss the topic of “Uncertainty in weather and climate predictions”, with sources
of error/uncertainty and measures adopted to minimize it.

• The unpredictability of the atmosphere:

The atmosphere being a chaotic system, even a slight change in its parameters can significantly
influence the weather predictions.

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 • Inadequate knowledge about the atmosphere:
The atmosphere is a complicated and unpredictable system with many interacting parts. Because of
the limited knowledge and technology, weather prediction is difficult.
• Computer model limitations and capabilities:
Computer models used to forecast the weather make a lot of assumptions which render the forecast
inaccurate. Further, in forecasting the weather, they do not consider all the factors involved. This
will make things even more unpredictable.

7) List down what are the other organizations involved in weather and
meteorological/hydrological/climatic data collection and briefly explain their role
and for what purposes.
Department of Irrigation
The irrigation department collects hydrological data such as water level and river flow rates, water
level in reservoirs, water quality and rain. DOI will use this data to manage the water resource in the
irrigation system efficiently and also it helps to prevent flood conditions.
• Focuses on hydrological data collection and management.
• Monitors river levels and rainfall.
• Develops flood forecasting models and issues early warnings.
• Plays a vital role in water resource management.
Ministry of Disaster Management
The disaster management ministry will gather various hydrological data to plan for natural calamities
like floods, drought, cyclones, and tsunamis. The disaster management ministry must adopt proper
steps and precautions so that the losses are minimized.
• Uses meteorological and hydrological information to coordinate disaster preparedness and
response.
• Disseminates early warnings to the public.
World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
• Access to global meteorological data and expertise.
• Support for capacity building and infrastructure development.
• Participation in international climate initiatives.
Universities
Sri Lankan universities, such as the University of Peradeniya, University of Moratuwa, and
University of Colombo, conduct research and provide education in atmospheric science, hydrology,
and related disciplines.

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 8) In your opinion, assess the significance of the work carried out by the Department
of Meteorology with respect to disaster management and climate change.

The Department of Meteorology does very important work in helping people, communities, and the
government prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters like floods, storms, and droughts. They
collect and share weather and climate information, which helps everyone make better decisions to
protect themselves and the environment.
The Department also teaches people about climate change and weather hazards so they can be more
prepared and safer. By working with other countries and organizations, they learn new ideas and help
make the world a better place for everyone. In short, their work makes a big difference in keeping
people safe and helping the planet stay healthy.
There are several early warning systems provided by Department of Meteorological.
• General weather forecast (24hr to 36 hr)
• Marine weather forecast (12hr to 10day)
• Weather forecast for international maritime activities
• Aeronautical meteorological forecast and warning
• Agro-Met forecast
• Seasonal weather forecast
• Specialized weather forecast based on user requirements (value added service)

9) As per your understanding, what are the current shortcomings and limitations and
explain how the department could perform better even with the existing facilities.

The Department of Meteorology has some problems that make it hard for them to do their job
perfectly. There are some problems for that.
• Not Enough Information:
They might not have enough tools to collect information about the weather and climate in all areas.
• Old Technology:
The machines and computers they use to study the weather might be old or not very powerful.
• Need More Help:
The Department may not have enough money, people, or knowledge to make the best use of what
they have.
Also there area some things can do to make their work better with what they have.
• Working Together:
The Department can work with schools, research groups, and other countries. They can learn new
things and get more information this way.
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 • Taking Care of Their Tools:
They can fix, clean, and use their tools better to make sure they give good information about the
weather.
• Learning and Growing:
Department can teach their workers new things and help them learn more about weather and
climate. This way, everyone can do a better job.
• Talking to People:
They can talk to regular people, teach them about the weather, and tell them what to do when
there's bad weather. This will help keep people safe.

10) The government has sought finances from funding sources targeting a project
called "Modernization of Meteorological Department". Explain possible
objectives for this project and your expectations after project implementation.

Modernizing the Meteorological Department involves upgrading various aspects of its operations,
such as infrastructure, technology, and human resources, to enhance its capabilities and services.
➢ Component II (HMIS) of DSWRP Project
‘HMIS’ (Hydro-Meteorological Information System) addresses the problem by expanding and
modernizing the existing system. The main components of the project are listed below
1) 122 automated hydro-meteorological stations Island wide.
2) Communication system via satellites and internet.
3) Central database system for automatic data acquisition, processing.
4) Software for database management and flood forecasting with necessary training.

➢ Hydro-meteorological Stations under DSWRPP

It is developing 122 hydro-meteorological stations under the project. Most of the existing stations
under Hydrology Division are taken for upgrading.
➢ Training and Technology Transfer
The project prioritizes training and technology transfer, enabling professionals to effectively
utilize affordable, modern hydrological instruments. Training and hands-on learning are essential
for proper instrument installation and operation, maximizing technology benefits.
➢ Repair old buildings and replace old measuring instruments in the Department of Meteorological.

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REFERNCES

• What is: Weather Data (no date) LEARN STATISTICS EASILY. Available at:
https://statisticseasily.com/glossario/what-is-weather-data-understanding-meteorological-
information/ (Accessed: 19 March 2025).

• Hydrology & Disaster Management (no date). Available at:

https://www.irrigation.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=27&Itemid=
128&lang=en (Accessed: 20 March 2025).

• `Fathi, M. et al. (2022) ‘Big Data Analytics in Weather Forecasting: A Systematic Review’, Archives
of Computational Methods in Engineering, 29(2), pp. 1247–1275. Available at:
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11831-021-09616-4.

• ‘Modernization of Meteorological Department project’ (no date). Available at:

https://irrigation.gov.lk/web/images/Hydrological-
Annual/4_Hydrological_Annual_DSWRP_paper_2011-2012_Part_11.pdf.

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