In traditional weather stations, sensors like thermometers and barometers are typically standalone devices that require manual collection and recording of data . In contrast, sensors in the IoT-based system are integrated into a network that automatically collects and transmits data to cloud-based platforms in real-time . This automation reduces human effort and error, enhances data accuracy, and ensures real-time data availability for analysis and dissemination, significantly improving the efficiency of weather monitoring operations.

The key components of the IoT-based weather monitoring system include sensor devices (DHT11 for temperature and humidity, LDR for light intensity, BMP180 for pressure), an Arduino Uno microcontroller, and the ESP8266 module for connectivity . These components work together as follows: the sensors collect environmental data and send it to the Arduino for processing. The Arduino then uses the ESP8266 to transmit data to the internet and store it on platforms such as ThingSpeak for real-time access and analysis . This integration allows for continuous monitoring and data accessibility.

Cloud computing plays a crucial role in the proposed IoT-based weather monitoring system by providing the infrastructure needed for data storage, processing, and accessibility. Sensor data is uploaded to cloud platforms like ThingSpeak via the ESP8266 module, allowing for large-scale data management and remote accessibility . This enables the system to process big data analytics, generate trends, and provide insights in real-time . Cloud computing enhances the system’s scalability, reliability, and efficiency, making it possible to handle the vast amounts of data generated by distributed sensor networks.

The proposed IoT-based weather monitoring system improves data accessibility and usability by using sensor networks to collect real-time weather data and make it accessible via the internet. This system employs devices such as the Arduino Uno and the ESP8266 to connect to a network, enabling global access to data stored on platforms like ThingSpeak . In contrast, traditional systems rely on analog instruments and physical data collection, which must be manually recorded and are not easily accessible in real-time . By integrating IoT, the new system allows for more timely, efficient, and potentially automated responses to environmental changes.

The system uses embedded intelligence by incorporating a hierarchical model where tier 4 acts as an 'intelligent environment,' adapting to data variations and fixing threshold values based on sensor readings . This allows the system to autonomously adjust to dynamic environmental conditions and send alerts when parameters exceed critical thresholds. Consequently, the environment can be monitored in real-time, enabling proactive interventions that could mitigate adverse effects on plants, animals, and humans . This results in a more responsive and precise monitoring approach, potentially reducing risks associated with environmental changes.

The system addresses decision-making in environmental monitoring by utilizing tier 3, which focuses on data acquisition and decision-making. This involves analyzing sensor data to determine the condition each parameter represents, enabling the system to make informed decisions on whether to send alerts or take corrective actions . For users, this means increased reliability and trust in the system’s ability to autonomously manage environmental conditions and send timely notifications, thus reducing the dependence on manual interventions for routine monitoring tasks.

Integrating IoT in weather monitoring systems can greatly benefit industries by providing more accurate and timely data, which is crucial for decision-making. For example, the agricultural sector can use real-time data to optimize crop irrigation and prevent weather-related damage . The aviation and marine sectors can improve safety and efficiency by accessing up-to-date weather conditions and forecasts . Meteorological departments and weather stations can also benefit by streamlining data collection and dissemination processes, making weather predictions more reliable and increasing public safety during extreme weather events .

The primary challenges associated with implementing the IoT-based weather monitoring system include ensuring the security of data transmitted over the internet, maintaining the accuracy and calibration of varied sensors, and addressing the potential costs and complexity of deploying IoT infrastructure . Additionally, the system requires reliable internet connectivity, which might not be available in remote or underdeveloped areas. The integration of numerous components, such as sensors and microcontrollers, necessitates technical expertise for installation and maintenance, posing a barrier for widespread adoption.

The proposed IoT-based weather monitoring system promotes sustainable environmental practices by allowing for precise data collection and monitoring, which can help identify trends and anticipate adverse environmental conditions. By alerting stakeholders to changes in real-time, such systems can facilitate better resource management, such as optimizing water use in agriculture and adapting infrastructure for extreme weather . This proactive approach can lead to a reduction in the consumption of natural resources and minimize ecological impact, aligning with sustainability goals.

IoT technology offers several improvements over traditional analog weather systems, including real-time data access, automation, and remote monitoring capabilities. While traditional systems rely on manual data collection and reporting, IoT-based systems automate data gathering through sensors and make the information accessible from anywhere via the internet . This greatly enhances the speed and accuracy of weather monitoring and forecasting, allowing for improved decision-making and potentially life-saving interventions during environmental emergencies.