Action 8 introduces the new Lifesaver Radar, which was created in Alabama and built by Enterprise Electronics Corporation (EEC) in Enterprise. EEC has been in operation since 1971, delivering radar and satellite solutions globally. The partnership between WAKA Action 8 and Climavision, with support from The Johnny Adams Law Firm, has brought this new radar system to life.
Tara Leigh Goode, the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships and Radar Operations at Climavision, expressed the importance of merging weather service information with hyper-local technology for a more comprehensive view. The radar, located near the Alabama/Mississippi state line, was unveiled by Action 8 Chief Meteorologist Shane Butler and will be incorporated into weather forecasts going forward. It offers ten times the resolution of existing radars and fills a radar gap zone in West Alabama without adequate government radar coverage.
The existing radars are situated too far away, which causes their beams to shoot high into the clouds due to the Earth’s curvature, potentially missing tornadoes and endangering lives. Despite years of requests for improved radar coverage, no solution was provided until now. This radar will benefit people in areas like Selma and Montgomery, providing an initial look at incoming storms and sharing data with the National Weather Service for better watches and warnings.
As Action 8 continues to enhance severe weather coverage, expect more weather announcements in the near future. The goal is to offer the best protection for lives by utilizing innovative radar technology.