5th International Conference on Electronics and Sustainable Communication Systems (ICESC 2024)

IEEE XPlore Part Number: CFP24V66-ART; ISBN: 979-8-3503-7994-5

Cloud Computing’s IoT based ThingSpeak,

NodeMCU for Weather Monitoring
*1Suresh Chinnathampy M 2Jobin C J 3Jarin T

Associate Professor, Department of UG Scholar Associate Professor, Department of

Electronics and Communication Department of Mechanical EEE, Jyothi Engineering College,
Engineering, Engineering, Jyothi Engineering Thrissur, Kerala, India.
2024 5th International Conference on Electronics and Sustainable Communication Systems (ICESC) | 979-8-3503-7994-5/24/$31.00 ©2024 IEEE | DOI: 10.1109/ICESC60852.2024.10689978

Vel Tech High Tech Dr. Rangarajan College, Thrissur, Kerala, India. [email protected]
Dr. Sakunthala Engineering College, [email protected]
Chennai – 600062
[email protected]
4V.P.M.B.Aarthi, 5N Raghavendran, Assistant

Associate Professor, Professor, Department of Artificial

Department of ECE, intelligence and Date Science
School of Electronics, Electrical and Engineering, R.M.K. College of
Biomedical Technology Engineering and Technology (An
Kalasalingam Academy of Research Autonomous Institution), Chennai -
and Education, 601206
Krishnankoil, Srivilliputtur - 626126. [email protected]
[email protected]

Abstract— In this research work, a cloud-based depended on centralized infrastructure and manual
Internet of Things (IoT) system for weather data-gathering techniques, which can be expensive,
monitoring in real-time is presented by integrating the time-consuming, and have a restricted reach. This
ThingSpeak platform, the ESP32 microcontroller, and research describes a novel cloud-based Internet of
several sensors, such as rain, soil moisture, and Things system for real-time weather monitoring to
temperature sensors (DHT11). The ESP32 acts as the overcome these issues. Taking advantage of the
central hub, integrating sensors and wireless Internet of Things, the system combines several
connectivity for data acquisition and transmission. sensors with a central microcontroller to gather, send,
Data collected is securely stored, visualized, and and evaluate environmental data in real time. The
analyzed on ThingSpeak, enabling remote monitoring ESP32 microcontroller, the ThingSpeak platform,
and decision-making. The system’s modular design and many sensors, such as the DHT11 soil moisture
allows easy expansion and customization, sensor, rain sensor, and temperature and humidity
accommodating additional sensors or functionalities. sensor, are the main parts of the system.
Leveraging cloud computing, this IoT solution offers The system's core hub, the ESP32
scalability, accessibility, and data sharing for microcontroller, provides the computing power and
applications like agriculture and environmental wireless connectivity required to communicate with
monitoring. With efficient data processing and the sensors and send data to the cloud. The cloud-
transmission, even in resource-constrained based IoT platform ThingSpeak is used for the safe
environments, and collaboration features through storage, visualization, and analysis of data gathering.
thingSpeak, this research contributes to advancing This makes it possible to remotely access weather
cloud-based IoT systems for weather monitoring. monitoring data from any location with an internet
connection, facilitating quick decision-making and
Keywords: IoT, NodeMCU, Thinkspeak, Cloud resource optimization.
Computing.
Because of its modular design, the system is
I. INTRODUCTION easily expandable and customizable to meet a variety
The way people monitor and engage with their of environmental monitoring requirements. If more
surroundings has been completely transformed in the sensors or features are needed, It may be easily added
last few years by the widespread use of Internet of to the system. Moreover, scalability, accessibility,
Things (IoT) technologies. Weather monitoring and data-sharing capabilities provided by cloud
systems are one area where IoT has shown great computing technology make the system ideal for a
promise. These systems are essential for providing variety of uses, such as environmental monitoring,
real-time environmental data for a variety of smart cities, and agriculture. The suggested system's
applications, including disaster management, capacity to give real-time weather data even in
transportation, and agriculture. Conventional locations with limited resources is one of its main
meteorological observation systems have often features. The ESP32 microcontroller can function
reliably in a variety of environments because to its

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 5th International Conference on Electronics and Sustainable Communication Systems (ICESC 2024)
IEEE XPlore Part Number: CFP24V66-ART; ISBN: 979-8-3503-7994-5

dual-core processor and Wi-Fi capabilities, which accessibility, and data sharing rendering it suitable
guarantee effective data processing and transfer. A for diverse applications such as agriculture, smart
more integrated approach to weather monitoring and cities, and environmental monitoring.
management is also promoted by the ThingSpeak
platform's collaboration features, which allow
stakeholders to share data and work together on
decision-making.
To sum up, this study introduces a new cloud-
based Internet of Things system that can monitor
weather conditions in real-time and provides
scalability, accessibility, and the capacity to share
data with different applications. The suggested
system is a major development in the field of weather
monitoring, opening the door for more effective and
integrated approaches to environmental management
by utilizing the power of IoT and cloud computing.
In the meantime, the rain sensor uses cloud
computing to detect precipitation, enabling prompt
reactions in flood-prone locations or agricultural
Fig 1. Proposed Circuit Diagram
settings.
Figure 1 shows the proposed diagram,
II. LITERATURE REVIEW
Through the integration of ESP32’s dual-core
The Literature survey delves into cloud-based processor and Wi-Fi capabilities, efficient data
IoT weather monitoring systems, exploring sensor processing and transmission are guaranteed, even in
technologies, data transmission protocols, and resource-constrained environments [9]. The
predictive analysis methods for real-time reporting. incorporation of ThingSpeak facilitates collaboration
These studies emphasize the significance of accurate and data sharing among stakeholders, fostering
data collection, efficient transmission, and advanced informed decision-making and resource
analytics in enhancing weather prediction and optimization. This research significantly contributes
monitoring capabilities across various applications. to the advancement of cloud-based IoT systems,
Cloud-based real-time weather reporting system particularly in weather monitoring, by presenting a
using IoT [1] Weather Monitoring System Using IoT cost-effective and scalable solution for deployment
and Cloud Computing has been analyzed and the in various settings. The Proposed work merits
corresponding measures have been visualized [2] In presentation at the IEEE conference, providing
the paper [3] IoT based Weather Monitoring System information about cutting-edge methods for
Using ThingSpeak Server has been implemented, monitoring and analysing the environment.
Weather Analysis using ThingSpeak server is
systemized [4] IoT-Enhanced Weather Monitoring IV. SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE
System has been monitored [5] and the Affordable a. Microcontroller (Node MCU ESP32)
Hardware Solution for Real-Time Data Collection,
Storage and Predictive Analysis [6] IoT Based Real-
Considered a versatile microcontroller with
Time Weather Monitoring System using
sophisticated features and capabilities, the ESP32 is
NODEMCU is analyzed [7].
a popular option for Internet of Things applications.
III. PROPOSED WORK equipped with an integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
network as well as a dual-core processor. High
The proposed work presents a cutting-edge performance and versatility are provided by the
cloud-based Internet of Things (IoT) meteorological ESP32 for a variety of applications. Its extensive
surveillance system made to revolutionize accessory line-up, which includes analog to digital
environmental data collection and analysis. Utilizing converters, pulse-width modulation, and GPIO pins
the ESP32 microcontroller as the central hub, enables seamless integration with sensors and
integrated Real-time monitoring of crucial actuators. Additionally, the ESP32 supports various
environmental factors is ensured by the system communication protocols and interfaces, facilitating
through the use of sensors such as the rain sensor, soil data exchange with external devices and cloud
moisture sensor, and DHT11 temperature and platforms. With its low power consumption and cost-
humidity sensor. Leveraging the ThingSpeak effectiveness, The ESP32 is widely adopted in
platform, collected data is securely stored, research and industry for developing innovative IoT
visualized, and analysed, offering valuable insights solutions with robust connectivity and processing
for remote monitoring and decision-making [8]. The capabilities.
system’s modular architecture allows for seamless
expansion and customization, accommodating
additional sensors or functionalities as required. By
harnessing cloud computing capabilities, the
proposed IoT solution offers scalability,

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 5th International Conference on Electronics and Sustainable Communication Systems (ICESC 2024)
IEEE XPlore Part Number: CFP24V66-ART; ISBN: 979-8-3503-7994-5

capture raindrop impacts effectively. Once rain is

detected the sensor generates electrical signals or
triggers optical sensors to signify the occurrence of
rainfall. For a variety of uses, such as urban planning,
agriculture, and flood control, this information is
essential because it allows for prompt responses and
well-informed decision-making based on current
meteorological data [13].

Fig 2. Node MCU ESP32

Figure 2 displays Node MCU ESP32 which
incorporates robust security features security features
such as secure boot, flash encryptions, and
cryptographic accelerators, ensuring data integrity
and confidentiality in IoT deployments [10]. With
support for Free RTOS, the ESP32 enables
multitasking and real-time task scheduling, allowing
developers to create complex IoT applications with
precise timing requirements.
Fig 4. Rain Drop Sensor
b. Temperature and Humidity Sensor (DHT11) Figure 4 shows rain drop sensor. Additionally,
The DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor is the sensor's incorporation into weather monitoring
a widely used component in IoT applications due to systems improves precipitation forecasting's efficacy
its affordability and simplicity [11]. It comprises a and accuracy, which helps with resource allocation
capacitive humidity sensor and thermistor for and disaster preparedness initiatives. Its low power
temperature measurement, offering reliable consumption and small size also make it appropriate
performance in a compact form. With a detection for deployment in a variety of environmental
range of 20-80% for humidity and 0- 50 degrees C monitoring networks, which increases its usefulness
for temperature, the DHT11 provides adequate in IoT-enabled systems.
accuracy for many applications. Its digital output
interface simplifies integration with
d. Soil Moisture Sensor
microcontrollers, allowing for easy data acquisition
and processing. The soil moisture sensor is an essential tool for
agriculture and environmental monitoring, providing
real-time measurements of soil moisture content.
Using either resistive or capacitive sensing
techniques, the sensor detects changes in electrical
conductivity or dielectric permittivity caused by
moisture level communications data is invaluable for
optimizing irrigation schedules, preventing
overwatering, or underwatering, and promoting
healthy plant growth. The sensor typically consists of
probes inserted into the soil with one probe acting as
Fig 3. Temperature and Humidity Sensor DHT11 a conductor and the other as a citation. Its accuracy,
Figure 3 shows the temperature and humidity small size, and low power consumption make it a
sensor DHT11. Furthermore, the DHT11's robust flexible instrument for a range of precision
performance and reliability contribute to its agriculture and soil science research applications.
popularity in diverse IoT applications, demonstrating
its effectiveness in providing valuable insights into
environmental parameters [12].

c. Rain Drop Sensor

The raindrop sensor is a pivotal component in

weather monitoring systems, designed for d Cloud-
based and intensity of rainfall. Utilizing principles of
electrical conductivity or optical detection. The
sensor can accurately determine the onset and
magnitude of precipitation. It typically comprises
sensitive elements arranged in a grid pattern to Fig 5. Soil Moisture Sensor

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 5th International Conference on Electronics and Sustainable Communication Systems (ICESC 2024)
IEEE XPlore Part Number: CFP24V66-ART; ISBN: 979-8-3503-7994-5

Figure 5 shows soil moisture sensor and its based platforms to build an all-inclusive Internet of
incorporation into Internet of Things (IoT) systems Things weather monitoring system. Fundamentally,
also improves data gathering and processing the system gathers environmental data using sensors
capabilities, leading to better resource management such as the DHT11 for temperature and humidity,
and decision-making in environmental and rain sensors, and soil moisture sensors. These sensors
agricultural applications. The sensor helps farmers interface with microcontrollers like the ESP32,
and land managers to precisely control the amount of which serve as central hubs for data processing and
water sprayed to crops or landscapes, thereby transmissions [15].
lowering water usage and limiting the risk of water
runoff and soil erosion. It does this by delivering real- The methodology involves deploying the sensors
time data on soil moisture levels [14]. in the target environment to capture real-time data,
which is then transmitted to cloud platforms like
ThingSpeak using wireless communication
e. ThingSpeak Cloud Platform protocols. Within the cloud, the data is securely
stored, visualized, and analysed, providing
ThingSpeak is a cloud-based platform designed actionable insights for decision-making. The
for IoT applications, offering capabilities for storing system's modular architecture makes it simple to
data collection, analysis, and visualization. It expand and customize, adding more sensors or
provides users with the ability to create channels to functionalities as needed. This architecture facilitates
store and organize sensor data, which can be effective data gathering, analysis, and distribution by
accessed and analysed in real-time via web interfaces utilizing cloud computing and IoT technologies. This
or APIs. ThingSpeak offers integration with various allows for informed decision-making across a range
IoT devices and platforms enabling seamless data of applications, such as agriculture, urban planning,
exchange and interoperability. Additionally, it and disaster management.
features customizable visualization tools for creating
charts, graphs, and maps to interpret data insights The system’s architecture prioritizes reliability
effectively. With its user-friendly interface and and scalability, ensuring seamless operation and
robust features, ThingSpeak is widely utilized for a flexibility for future expansion. Employing robust
wide range of purposes, including industrial communication protocols and redundant data storage
automation, smart agriculture, and environmental mechanisms, enhances data integrity and availability,
monitoring. even in challenging environmental conditions. This
scalability enables the system to adapt to evolving
requirements and accommodate increased data
volume and user demands over time. In the context
of this project, real-time data publication involves the
seamless transmission of environmental sensors'
measurements of temperature, humidity, soil
moisture, and rainfall are immediately uploaded to
the ThingSpeak platform.
The ESP32 microcontroller facilitates the
continued acquisition and transmission of this data
using Wi-Fi connectivity. Once received by
ThingSpeak, the data is promptly published and
visualized in real time through graphs and charts.
Fig 6. ThingSpeak Cloud Platform Model
Figure 6 shows ThingSpeak Cloud Platform
Model which supports real-time data streaming and
notifications, allowing users to receive alerts based
on predefined conditions or thresholds. This feature
enhances proactive monitoring and enables timely
response to critical events, thereby improving
operational efficiency and reducing downtime in IoT
deployments. Moreover, ThingSpeak offers
advanced analytics capabilities, including data fusion
and machine learning algorithms, enabling deeper
insights and predictive analytics for proactive
decision-making. Fig 7. Block Diagram with ESP32 Node MCU

Figure 7 shows the block diagram with ESP32

V. ARCHITECTURE DESIGN AND
Node MCU By putting in place redundant data
METHODOLOGY storage methods and frequent backups, one can
The architecture design for this project reduce the risk of data loss due to system mistakes or
encompasses a modular and scalable approach, hardware failures and maintain data availability and
integrating sensors, Microcontrollers, and cloud- integrity. Robust security mechanisms, such as

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 5th International Conference on Electronics and Sustainable Communication Systems (ICESC 2024)
IEEE XPlore Part Number: CFP24V66-ART; ISBN: 979-8-3503-7994-5

access controls and encryption protocols, can be used

to protect sensitive data from potential cyber threats
and unauthorized access while it is being transported
and kept within the system.
VI. RESULTS
The project's outcomes show how well the
cloud-based IoT weather monitoring system was
implemented and how it works. With the use of
sensors, microcontrollers, and cloud platforms,
precise data on the temperature, humidity, soil
moisture, and precipitation were gathered,
transferred, and displayed in real-time.
The system exhibited reliability and Fig 9. Visualization of Temperature Sensor in
responsiveness in capturing environmental changes ThingSpeak
enabling informed decision-making for various
applications. Furthermore, the system's modular Figure 9 shows the Visualization of Temperature
architecture made it simple to include new sensors or Sensor in ThingSpeak.
features, increasing its adaptability and versatility.
Overall, the results validate the effectiveness of the
proposed solution in providing comprehensive and
scalable weather monitoring capabilities. The
collected environmental data, encompassing
temperature, humidity, soil moisture, and
precipitation, demonstrated high accuracy and
reliability, ensuring the integrity of the information
used for decision-making processes.

Fig 10. Visualization of Humidity in ThingSpeak

Figure 10 shows the visualization of humidity in
ThingSpeak.

Fig 8. Hardware implementation of the project

Figure 8 shows hardware implementation

Real-time monitoring and analysis were made
possible by the smooth transfer of data from sensors
to the cloud platform via microcontrollers, which
improved the system's ability to adapt to changes in
its surroundings. Through the system's rapid and
reliable environmental data delivery, stakeholders
were enabled to make well-informed decisions
across a range of applications.

Fig 11. Visualization of Rain Sensor in ThingSpeak

Figure 11 shows the Visualization of Rain Sensor
in ThingSpeak

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 5th International Conference on Electronics and Sustainable Communication Systems (ICESC 2024)
IEEE XPlore Part Number: CFP24V66-ART; ISBN: 979-8-3503-7994-5

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