Weather Radar Coverage Improvement Act

This legislation directs the Under Secretary, in consultation with the National Weather Service, to develop a comprehensive plan for replacing the existing NEXRAD weather radar system. The plan must outline quantifiable improvements in coverage and accuracy, and the replacement process is mandated to be completed by September 30, 2040. Key elements of this plan include the development of a prototype digital phased array radar to determine specifications and the establishment of a weather surveillance phased array radar testbed . This testbed will evaluate commercial radars and provide technical assistance for small, gap-filling radars, especially in areas where topography hinders larger systems. The bill also emphasizes soliciting input from meteorologists, emergency managers, and public safety officials. Furthermore, the Act authorizes the Director of the National Weather Service to utilize a "Radar-as-a-Service" model, contracting with third-party entities to supplement existing radar coverage gaps. This initiative aims to enhance the detection of significant precipitation and severe weather, prioritizing entities that have participated in the established testbed and potentially incorporating weather camera systems as viable technologies.