A boost to Cayman’s weather radar when it comes back online on 24 Dec. means that staff can now display accurate rainfall rates measured in inches per hour.
The Cayman Islands National Weather Service said when radar images return to its website on Christmas Eve, it will include the new rainfall measurements.
The new product called Dual-Polarization Surface Rain Intensity will enhance the traditional colour-coded radar imagery by providing quantitative rainfall rates in inches per hour.
The service explained that heavier showers can cause “gusty conditions”, reduce visibility and lead to localised flooding if prolonged.
Kerry Powery, the chief meteorologist, added the weather bureau was looking at further technical improvements to the service.
Work is also under way to improve user experience on the website so “future forecast products can be delivered more effectively to the public”.
John Tibbetts, the director general of the weather service, said the radar’s manufacturer, the German arm of Leonardo, a global aerospace, defence and security firm, and the weather service’s technical services manager Michael Carey had delivered the upgrade ahead of schedule and to a high standard.
Radar imagery, which has been absent since upgrade work started last month, is expected be back on the service’s website at www.weather.gov.ky by 12pm on 24 Dec.
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