Radar Revival: Climavision's Quest for Better Weather Forecasting

The National Weather Service (NWS) and Climavision, a leader in weather technology, have extended their contract, allowing NWS to continue accessing data from 13 of Climavision's radar sites. This agreement is a significant step in improving weather forecasting infrastructure in the United States. Climavision's radar network, which currently spans over 27 sites across 14 states, provides real-time weather data at lower altitudes. This unique service fills gaps left by existing NEXRAD radar sites, enabling forecasters to better track weather hazards. "Access to low-altitude data may provide additional radar coverage for our forecasters," said Ajay Mehta, NWS Director of the Office of Observations. The partnership between NWS and Climavision has been instrumental in supporting the Radar Next program. Climavision's radar data has been distributed to various forecast offices and the Storm Prediction Center, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of weather patterns. "The National Mesonet Program helps provide commercial observational data to NWS operations and forecasters," said Curtis Marshall, NWS Mesonet Program Manager. Climavision is dedicated to expanding its radar network, with plans to install over 200 radars nationwide. This ambitious goal aligns with NOAA's mission to partner with the private sector and foster innovative solutions that advance operational goals. "Our unique radar-as-a-service model positions us ideally to support NOAA's mission," said Chris Goode, CEO and Co-Founder of Climavision. The collaboration between NWS and Climavision has already shown promising results. Bill Callahan, Vice President of Federal Engagement at Synoptic Data, noted that administering the National Mesonet program and integrating Climavision's radar data has been exceptionally beneficial. "It's been rewarding to enhance the resources available to weather forecasters nationwide over the past year," he said.