WAYANAD X-BAND RADARS : GEOGRAPHY / DISASTER MANAGEMENT

NEWS : What is Wayanad’s new X-band radar?

 

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS ?

The Union Ministry of Earth Sciences has approved the installation of an X-band radar in Wayanad, Kerala, to improve disaster monitoring following the devastating July 2024 floods and landslides.This radar will enhance early warning systems for landslides and severe weather events.

  • X-Band Radars: Operate in the 8-12 GHz range (2-4 cm wavelengths).
  • High-Resolution Imaging: Can detect small particles like rain droplets and soil, ideal for monitoring shifts in the environment.
  • Landslide Warnings: Helps monitor soil shifts and particle movements to provide early warnings for landslides.
  • High Temporal Sampling: Frequently samples the environment, detecting rapid movements.
  • Limitations: Shorter range due to faster signal attenuation, but effective for localized monitoring.
  • Radar Infrastructure: Part of India's broader initiative, with 56 Doppler radars being added by the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Source :  https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/what-is-wayanads-new-x-band-radar-explained/article68750044.ece#:~:text=In%20Wayanad%2C%20the%20new%20radar,in%20shorter%20spans%20of%20time.