KJGX radar down for approximately two weeks, starting January 5th, 2022

Beginning Wednesday, January 5th, 2022, the KJGX WSR- 88D operated by NOAA's National Weather Service in Peachtree City/Atlanta in conjunction with Warner Robins AFB will be down for approximately two weeks for an important upgrade. Technicians will refurbish and replace the pedestal, one of the most critical components of the radar, which is necessary for antenna rotation and positioning to capture data in all directions. The components are extremely heavy and will require the radome to be removed by crane and replaced when the work in completed. Please note, this work is expected to be done regardless of expected weather during this 2 week window (Jan 5 - Jan 19). While KJGX is down, adjacent radars will be available, including KFFC (Peachtree City), KVAX (Moody AFB - Valdosta), KCHS (Charleston, SC), KMXX (Maxwell AFB), KCAE (Columbia, SC), and KEOX (Ft. Rucker, AL).

The radar and pedestal were designed to last 25 years, and this radar has exceeded its life-span. This activity is necessary to keep the radar functioning for another 20 years or more.

The pedestal refurbishment is the third major project of the NEXRAD Service Life Extension Program (SLEP), a series of upgrades that will keep our nation`s radars viable into the 2030s. NOAA`s National Weather Service, the United States Air Force, and the Federal Aviation Administration are investing $135 million in the eight year program. The first project was the installation of the new signal processor and the second project was the refurbishment of the transmitter. The fourth project will be the refurbishment of the equipment shelters. The Service Life Extension Program will be complete in 2023.