Why does Wayanad need an X-band radar?

Introduction

1. Context: After the devastating floods and landslides in Kerala's Wayanad district in July 2024, the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences approved the installation of an X-band radar.
2. Purpose: To strengthen weather forecasting and issue early warnings for landslides, floods, and other disasters.

What is an X-Band Radar?

1. Radar is short for ‘radio detection and ranging’

2. Frequency Range: Operates in the 8-12 GHz range of the electromagnetic spectrum (microwave region).
3. Wavelength: Emits wavelengths of 2-4 cm, allowing high-resolution images.
4. Short Range: Higher frequency means the radar is more prone to attenuation, giving it a shorter observational range, but better precision.

Additional Information: NASA-ISRO Collaboration: The upcoming NISAR satellite will use radar imaging for mapping landmasses, with payloads including L-band and S-band radars for earth observation. Global Best Practices: Countries like Japan and the U.S. have employed X-band radars to mitigate natural disasters, enhancing India’s adoption of such technology.

Why Does Wayanad Need an X-Band Radar?

1. Geographical Vulnerability: Wayanad, prone to landslides due to its hilly terrain and heavy rainfall, requires precise monitoring.
2. Landslide and Debris Flow Monitoring: The radar will track particle movements in soil, providing early warnings for landslides.
3. Rapid Sampling: High temporal sampling allows real-time monitoring of changing weather conditions.

What is a Doppler Radar?

1. Doppler Effect: Measures how the frequency of waves changes as their source moves towards or away from the radar.
2. Weather Monitoring: Doppler radars are crucial for tracking cloud movement, wind patterns, storms, and precipitation intensity.
3. Pulse-Doppler Radar: Measures rainfall intensity and monitors severe weather events like thunderstorms.

India's Expanding Radar Network

1. Historical Context: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) started using radar in the 1950s, with the first indigenous X-band radar installed in New Delhi in 1970.
2. Current Developments:
   1. IMD is upgrading its radar systems under 'Mission Mausam'.
   2. 56 additional Doppler radars are planned for installation by 2026 to enhance weather forecasting.
   3. 10 X-band radars are being procured for regions like the Northeastern states and Himachal Pradesh.
3. C-band Radar: Installed in Mangalore, with a range of 250 km for broader regional monitoring.

Significance of X-Band Radar in Wayanad

1. Disaster Management: Early warning systems for landslides and floods will help prevent large-scale loss of life.
2. Enhanced Local Weather Forecasting: Accurate short-range data for better predictions during heavy rainfall and storms.

Prelims Question

Q. Consider the following statements about X-band radar:

1. X-band radar operates at frequencies between 8-12 GHz.
2. X-band radar provides long-range weather forecasts.
3. Doppler radars use the Doppler effect to track cloud movement.

Which of the above statements are correct?

a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: c) 1 and 3 only

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