Solomon Islands to Boost Meteorological Capabilities with New Advanced Weather Radar

HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The Solomon Islands will take a huge step forward towards enhancing its early warning services as work to install its new high-tech weather radar system progresses. This project has been a long-term goal for the Solomon Islands, but could not afford it due to the high costs associated with such sophisticated equipment.

When commissioned the radar will become central to the country’s early warning system. With a scanning range of 300 kilometres, it will allow forecasters to accurately predict rainfall intensity and frequency. Apart from just tracking weather, the radar will also provide  important data that will greatly  improve aviation forecasts for the airline industry in Solomon Islands.

Work on the project became possible following successful negotiations led by former Director of the Solomon Islands Meteorological Services, now Permanent Secretary for MECDM Mr. David Hiriasia, who secured funding from the WMO through the “Weather Ready Pacific” Program, which is supported by the New Zealand government. The New Zealand Met Service is the registered entity responsible for implementing the project.

The project is currently implementing two phases, including initial site work towards the radar installation and public awareness.

Apart from that other important technical milestones have already been achieved, include Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) clearance, Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), and geotechnical surveys.

With some of the equipment having arrived and cleared in Honiara, installation is set to pick up momentum next month when two engineers from New Zealand arrive to begin on-site work.

However, given the project is situated within the Guadalcanal Province Jurisdiction,  construction proper will commence when a construction permit from the Guadalcanal province is issued.

Meanwhile a campaign to inform the public about the project’s benefits and safety is now underway. This awareness initiative is designed to educate the community on the importance of the equipment and address any potential concerns regarding radiation.

The total cost of the project is SBD$20 million.

SIMS officer doing awareness on the benefits of the radar system to communities around Henderson area

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