Doppler radar is an important tool meteorologists use to track where thunderstorms are occurring, how intense they are, and where they are moving. WSR-88D, the current radar that became operational in the early 90s, is becoming dated, and the National Severe Storms Laboratory is working to implement a different radar called phased array radar. Phased array radar can do a complete scan of the atmosphere in less than 60 seconds. A current scan with WSR-88D takes four to five minutes.
Phased array radar uses an integrated, flat antenna that has an array of elements that can scan electronically rather than mechanically. PAR can also directly scan one portion of the storm. This is especially important during severe storms. This will allow meteorologists to see where low-level rotation is occurring, helping to improve warning time for tornadoes. Phased array radar can also be dual-pol, which allows the radar to scan horizontally and vertically. Dual-pol allows meteorologists to better see the sizes and shapes of particles in a storm and is widely used to track debris in thunderstorms. Dual-pol radar is currently used operationally.
Phased array radar has been used for weather surveillance and research for the past 20 years. Wes Moody, Communications Specialist at the National Severe Storms Laboratory, says that the lab is working with the National Weather Service’s Radar Next program to get phased array radars in operation by the mid-2030s. The vision is for the phased array radar to be used in tandem with other radars based on geographical need.
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