Early-warning weather radar on uni grounds

Physics

The University of Adelaide will house the first of Australia's technologically advanced weather radars.

To be developed on university land at Buckland Park north of Adelaide, the new radar is expected to be operational by mid 2005.

"This is the first of six new Doppler radars as part of the Federal Government's $62 million five-year commitment to replace less powerful meteorological radar systems throughout Australia," said Mr Greg Hunt, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for the Environment and Heritage.

"The improved quality of data provided by Doppler radars allows better detection and improved forecasting of severe weather patterns including severe thunderstorms capable of producing large hailstones, heavy rainfall, damaging winds and tornadoes.

"It will enhance the Bureau of Meterology's ability to identify major storms affecting central South Australia, and should increase the warning times directed to the community in the event of severe weather conditions," he said.

University of Adelaide Professor of Physics Robert Vincent said the new radar data would also be valuable in supporting the university's research programs.

"The site is currently used for atmospheric physics research and the addition of the new radar data will be a major benefit to researchers in better understanding weather patterns," Professor Vincent said.

The Bureau's existing radar at Sellicks Hill, some 60km south of Adelaide city and at more than 300 metres above sea level, is suitable for general weather surveillance but is not ideal as a Doppler radar site.

"The new radar will mean better monitoring of weather fronts as they travel up from the Southern Ocean and across the Yorke Peninsula and improved radar-derived rainfall estimates across catchments in the Mount Lofty Ranges - vital as we continue to experience drought conditions," said South Australian Senator Alan Ferguson, who jointly announced the new radar with Mr Hunt and Professor Vincent.

"Improvements in short-term forecasting services, including better tracking of wind changes, will also be a significant bonus for aviation, marine and bushfire fighting communities across the greater Adelaide region."