🌪️ Kearney Gomez Doppler Weather Radar operational again

The Kearney Gomez Doppler Weather Radar, located in East End, is back in service after being non-operational for over seven months. The radar system, which is crucial for tracking storm activity during the Atlantic hurricane season, underwent essential repairs and maintenance and was declared fully operational on Monday, 27 May. The Premier of the Cayman Islands, Juliana O’Connor-Connolly, stated that the repair of the radar marked a significant milestone in the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and preparedness of the Cayman Islands ahead of the hurricane season.🌀

The radar system, which can detect moisture and water droplets up to 250 miles away from the Cayman Islands, was installed in 2013 with a grant from the European Union. However, it has faced several operational interruptions since its installation. The German-based company LEONARDO, which installed the radar, is the only entity qualified to provide the necessary scientific expertise for its maintenance. This exclusivity partly contributed to the delay in its repair. CINWS Technical Manager Michael Carey expressed satisfaction at the successful repair of the radar system, highlighting its importance in forecasting, research and accurate reporting in inclement conditions.⚙️

Despite the radar's frequent operational interruptions, it is expected to serve until 2028, given its 15-year lifespan. However, it will likely need to be replaced within the next five years. The radar system had been non-operational since 20 October 2023 due to a mechanical failure that was beyond the local team's expertise and experience. The Cayman Islands National Weather Service (CINWS) appreciated the public's patience during the radar's downtime and reiterated its commitment to providing accurate weather information and safeguarding the community ahead of natural disasters.🌧️