The Vaisala IceCast Ice and Snow Warning System is an integrated range of modules that allows the user to manage winter weather events. The system provides weather information and forecasts in such a way that the winter maintenance service engineer can decide if, when and where to provide anti-icing treatments. This increases road and runway safety whilst reducing the operational costs and environmental impact of winter service. Data collected from weather stations is distributed and presented to users via the Internet/Intranet or modem lines. Information is presented using the IceCast Display Software suite in a user-friendly format that aids decision making.

The Vaisala IceCast System is used throughout the world. Its modular nature ensures the best solution is available for all clients whatever their local requirements. Available modules include simple Windows™ based applications that cater for small local systems, typically used by bridge operators and airports interested in ice detection and short term forecasting. These then expand to linux/unix based systems that meet the requirement of larger airports and regional road networks with 24 hour Forecasting, Thermal Mapping, Route Optimization and wide-area data distribution.

Vaisala IceCast Systems are available as independent installations or as Vaisala managed systems. Independent installations provide solutions for clients that wish to manage and maintain their own system. With Vaisala managed systems, Vaisala looks after the collection and distribution of sensor and forecast data while continually monitoring the status of the system, quality of data and forecasts. This approach ensures maximum system reliability. Any problems are monitored by Vaisala and the client and maintenance engineers are alerted to the status of the system on a daily basis. With a Vaisala managed system all the user needs to be concerned with is the day-to-day decisions of winter service. 

An image of a snow blower in Moray, UK.