Discussing the project, a spokesperson said: “[It] will use Vodafone’s mobile network as an environmental sensor to monitor rainfall. Electromagnetic waves at certain frequencies are sensitive to precipitation, as water in the air affects the quality of the wireless link between masts.
“A microwave link can therefore function as a virtual rain gauge, providing pinpointed and precise precipitation data.”
Wireless DNA meanwhile will “monitor all signal variations to identify those caused by precipitation and share this data with the River Severn Partnership.”
The aim of the initiative is to enhance early warning systems for flooding and improve flood defences. ‘Nowcasting’ typically takes place in a timeframe of between a few minutes and a few hours.
RSPAWIR programme manager, Matt Smith, said: “The River Severn Partnership is committed to making the Severn, Wye, Warwickshire Avon and Teme the most vibrant and resilient river network.
"This use case with Vodafone aligns perfectly with our strategic aims. By improving weather forecasting, we can better mitigate against flooding, improve resilience, and protect the health and livelihoods of the communities and businesses in our region.”
Vodafone Business UK director, Nick Gliddon, said: “Storms and extreme weather are becoming increasingly more frequent and destructive. This [project] shows how our mobile network can have a real impact on the lives of residents in the River Severn area, and communities across the UK.”
