What environmental factor can cause false readings in RAWS?

Ice accumulation on sensors is a significant environmental factor that can lead to false readings in Remote Automated Weather Stations (RAWS). When ice builds up on the sensors, it can obstruct the accurate measurement of temperature, humidity, wind speed, and other atmospheric conditions. This obstruction can cause the sensors to record incorrect data, ultimately impacting the reliability of weather observations and forecasts. For instance, a temperature sensor covered in ice may read lower temperatures due to the insulation effect of the ice or fail to detect actual air temperature changes altogether. Correctly identifying and understanding the impact of ice accumulation on RAWS is essential for maintaining data integrity and ensuring accurate weather reporting.