UGA and GTU's New Weather Radar Could be a Game Changer

The University of Georgia and the Georgia Institute of Technology have recently purchased a new weather radar system that could significantly improve forecasting capabilities while simultaneously providing educational opportunities for students. “The acquisition of this radar is a game-changer for our state,” said Marshall Shepherd, director of UGA’s Atmospheric Sciences Program. “Not only does it provide a potentially lifesaving service for Georgians, it is a unique teaching and research tool for students at both institutions.” The new radar will be located in Gwinnett County and will be shared with the National Weather Service and other interested organizations. Dr. John Knox, Josiah Meigs Distinguished Teaching Professor in the UGA Department of Geography, anticipates the radar will be essential to the student run "Weather Dawgs" meteorology program and their 70, 000 followers across North Georgia. “The radar would allow UGA students to learn how to view, interpret and use X-band radar data as well as how best to communicate it to the public,” Knox said. Read more about the new weather radar system at the official UGA press release!