Tools of the Trade - Radar

One of the most effective tools to detect precipitation is the radar. Radar is an acronym for RAdio Detection And Ranging and has been a tool for weather forecasts since the 1940s. Radar sends out ultra high-frequency radio waves and listens for their return. When the waves are reflected from an object, such as a cloud or raindrop, the receiving part of the device measures and analyzes the information. Radar is then able to determine characteristics such as the distance and direction of the object.