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Help Build Our Observation Capabilities

Ryukyu Storm Watch is built around live cameras, local weather data, and on-the-ground storm coverage across Okinawa and the southern Ryukyu Islands. Donations help expand and improve the tools that enable that coverage.

Funds collected through this project will only be used to enhance viewer-facing capabilities, including weather observation equipment, camera systems, data overlays, streaming infrastructure, backup power, and other tools.

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps keep this window open, reliable, and available for everyone to share.

3% Cover the Fee

Contributions support Ryukyu Storm Watch equipment, maintenance, upgrades, and operations. Ryukyu Storm Watch is a project of Matthew Ray Media and is not a registered nonprofit or tax-exempt charity. Contributions are not tax-deductible.

Storm watch emblem with a stylized red and white hurricane symbol in the center, waves at the bottom, Japanese characters on the sides, and a red cherry blossom at the bottom.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Donations help maintain and improve the equipment already purchased by Ryukyu Storm Watch, including weather sensors, storm cameras, cables, mounts, data overlays, streaming software, backup power, storage, and network equipment.

    Funds may also support upgrades such as additional cameras and transport systems, improved weather observation tools, better live-stream reliability, and replacement gear damaged by salt air, wind, rain, or long-term outdoor exposure.

  • Yes. Ryukyu Storm Watch is open to connecting with people who want to help build a stronger typhoon-aware community.

    You can get involved by sharing local condition reports, submitting safe storm photos or video, helping monitor official weather sources, assisting with moderation, offering technical support, or helping with outreach before and during typhoon season.

    For community discussion, prep tips, and local storm-readiness conversations, you can also join the Okinawa Typhoon Prep Facebook

  • Yes. In-kind donations may be accepted if they support the mission of improving live storm coverage, weather observation, or viewer access.

    Useful items may include weather equipment, cameras, cables, mounts, networking gear, storage drives, backup power supplies, livestreaming equipment, or other tools that help keep the storm window open and reliable.

    Please reach out before sending or offering equipment so we can confirm whether it fits the project’s needs.

  • Yes. Donations may be made in honor or in memory of someone special.

    Whether recognizing a loved one, a service member, a former Okinawa resident, or someone who cared deeply about the island, your contribution helps keep this window open and available for others.

    Please include the name and any short dedication you’d like shared or kept private.

  • Yes. We are working on procuring Ryukyu Storm Watch items such as stickers, hats, shirts, keychains, and other gear.

    Please check back as we build out the shop. Every purchase will help support the project and strengthen the tools behind our live storm coverage.

  • Yes. Transparency matters. We plan to share periodic updates showing how donations and project funds are used, including equipment purchases, upgrades, maintenance, repairs, streaming costs, and other tools that support live storm coverage.

    When appropriate, we’ll also give shout-outs to supporters who choose not to remain anonymous. As the project grows, we’ll do our best to show what your contributions helped make possible.