Which weather phenomenon can be monitored using RAWS?

RAWS, or Remote Automated Weather Stations, are specifically designed to monitor and collect atmospheric and environmental data, which is particularly useful for understanding conditions that contribute to events such as wildfires, floods, and storms.

Wildfires can be effectively managed and monitored through real-time data provided by RAWS, which include parameters such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and precipitation—all critical factors that influence fire behavior and the risk of ignition. Similarly, during heavy rainfall or storm events, RAWS can provide crucial data that helps predict flooding risks and severity. These stations play a vital role in enhancing situational awareness and decision-making in emergency management scenarios involving these weather phenomena.

In contrast, while hurricanes and tornadoes are classified as extreme weather events, they are not the primary focus of RAWS data. Earthquakes and tsunamis are geological phenomena, unrelated to atmospheric or environmental observations that RAWS typically monitors. Climate change, while influenced by longer-term weather patterns, is measured through different means that assess broader trends rather than immediate weather events, and drought conditions are evaluated over extended periods rather than through specific weather data alone. Therefore, the choice encompassing wildfires, floods, and storms accurately reflects the core functions and applications of RAWS.