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Wireless Sensor Network (WSN)-based Automatic Weather Stations (AWSs) perform automatic collection and transmission of weather data. These AWSs face challenges, which lower their performance. Hence, a need for regular monitoring to reduce down time. We propose condition monitoring, comprised of a data receiver, analyser, problem classifier and reporter and visualizer, to mine data relationships, identify possible causes of problems and perform reporting of AWS status. The data receiver uses an M/M/1/k queuing model. We use Successive Pairwise REcord Differences (SPREDs) algorithm to compare arrival rates and packet content so as to establish sensor, node and AWS level performance. We also perform a hybrid of Grubb outlier detection and correlations amongst related variables for data validation. Problems take on one of four states. One connection can receive data at a rate as low as 1ms, without loss while problem identification especially in high density network is improved

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The changing environment, climate, and the increasing manifestation of disasters, has generated an increased demand for accurate and timely weather information. This information is provided by the National meteorological authorities (NMAs) through different dissemination channels e.g., using radios, Televisions, emails among others. The use of ICTs to provide weather information is recently gaining popularity. A study was conducted in three countries, namely Nigeria, Uganda, and South Sudan to assess the efficiency of an ICT tool, known as “Weather Information Dissemination System”. The study involved 254 participants (Uganda: 71; South Sudan: 133; and Nigeria: 50). The collected primary data were first quality controlled and organized thematically for detailed analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to provide quantitative analysis as well as content scrutinized for qualitative analysis. The results showed that there is a need for timely weather information to plan farming activities such as planting and application of fertilizers and pesticides as well as to manage flood and drought by the water sector and disaster management. Results further showed that the majority of the respondents have access to the technology needed to access weather and climate information. The respondents who received weather information from NMAs noted that the forecast was good. However, they further noted that there is more room for improvement especially with making the forecasts location-specific, ensuring mobile access is adequate in all regions, provision of weather information by SMS (in countries where this service is currently unavailable) and improved timing of the weather information. Finally, uncertainty about the accuracy of weather information and the weather information not meeting specific needs are key barriers to people’s willingness to pay for it (Uganda: 33.3%; South Sudan: 46.1%; and Nigeria: 33.3%). Improved collaborations between the NMAs, ICT service providers, policymakers and farmers will facilitate an effective approach to weather information access and dissemination. Innovative sensitization approaches through the media houses will enable better understanding of weather products and utilization, and access to enabling ICTs would increase access to weather forecasts

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