Which factor is crucial for the accurate operation of a RAWS?

Correct sensor calibration is essential for the accurate operation of a Remote Automated Weather Station (RAWS) because the sensors are responsible for measuring various environmental variables such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and precipitation. If the sensors are not properly calibrated, they may provide inaccurate data, leading to faulty weather assessments and forecasts. This, in turn, can affect decision-making in weather-related operations, such as fire management or agricultural planning.

Calibration ensures that the sensors provide reliable readings consistent with known standards. This accuracy is vital to make informed decisions based on the data collected by the RAWS. Without proper calibration, even if the software is updated or the network is functioning well, the fundamental quality of the data being collected would be compromised, thus making calibration the cornerstone of reliable RAWS operation.