TABLE OF CONTENTS We recall from the discussions of the preceding section that, reflectivity being the most readily measurable parameter of weather phenomena, the first generation of weather radars based their observation essentially on mapping the reflectivity at various points within their surveillance zone, and that such radars are called conventional weather radars. In spite of such a simplistic approach to weather surveillance, the conventional or reflectivity-only weather radars have rendered yeoman service to the detailed observation of weather in general, and to aviation operations in particular, for over four decades. Such radars have hitherto formed the mainstay of quantitative and real-time weather mapping in many countries and meteorologically important areas of the world. Significant areas of the USA and Europe have been covered by such systems. As examples, the weather radar coverage of the UK and France are shown in Figs. 6.6 and 6.7, respectively. India Meteorology Department has been operating a chain of conventional weather radars along the Indian coastline for the purpose of monitoring and warning against monsoon-driven cyclones that ravage large tracts of South Asia and surrounding regions with frightening regularity.
