National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

An Arctic Outbreak; Heavy Lake Effect Snow in the Great Lakes Region

An Arctic outbreak of cold air will expand south and east from the northern Plains through the Midwest and persist into next week. Dangerously cold wind chills are expected in the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest. Heavy lake-effect snow bands and snow showers have developed downwind of the Great Lakes, and will continue into next week. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Read More >

NWR Coverage

 


USA MAP

 

Coverage Map Notes

The coverage statistics and maps are calculated using a computer model and station data assuming ideal conditions. Coverage may be 5 to 10 percent below the computer predicted coverage for the following reasons:

  • The computer model is sensitive to antenna performance. Antenna performance is a function of local conditions, causing signals to be stronger signal level in some directions than others.
  • Placement of NWR antennas is dictated by the tower owner, which may result in a less than ideal set up.
  • The antenna may be affected by nearby structures or bodies of water.
  • In some special instances, the antenna may have been intentionally adjusted to be "directional" and provide better coverage to a specific area to the detriment of other areas.
  • Because of variations in local site conditions, the performance of an individual transmitter and antenna may be less than predicted or expected.
  • Seasonal environmental conditions, such as icing or heavy rain, affect performance of a transmitter station and its various components, particularly those subject to continuous weather exposure.
  • The coverage maps are shown in a single color format, which relates to an estimated signal level.
    • White: Signal level of greater than 18dBuV: Reliable coverage