False or non-existent radar returns may appear in areas where no precipitation is expected, even under clear conditions.
Sample false radar return.
These non-precipitation returns often result from stationary ground objects, such as wind turbine farms, particularly near radar sites. Wind turbine clutter is especially common at night or in the early morning when the side lobes of the radar get ducted toward the earth. Filtering out these false returns can be challenging, particularly when real precipitation is nearby.
How to Identify False Radar Returns
To identify potential false returns, do the following:
- Loop Radar Imagery: Non-precipitation returns will remain stationary over a fixed position, indicating they are not weather-related.
- Visual Confirmation: If in the area, visually confirm the conditions to substantiate whether the returns are false.
These methods can help differentiate actual precipitation from non-precipitation radar returns caused by ground-based interference.
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