Development of a Cost-Effective SMS-Based Flood Warning Device

Flood remains a perennial problem to the Philippines. The country¿s geographical location and the annual monsoons blend to a perfect brew for disaster, each time the typhoon season sets in. It accounts to more than a million losses in income and property damage. Not only the year¿s harvest but also lives are lost as a consequence of floods. Other countries have started to address the problem by installing advance warning systems and automated notices through telecommunication system such as Short Message Services (SMS) technology. The emergence of such technology opens a way for reducing the effects of calamities. Early warning for flood prone communities will be a first step for the ultimate goal of zero casualties in the near future. The SMS technology interfaced with the PIC microcontroller proves to be a promising cheaper alternative.