Why is it important to ensure the correct mounting height of sensors in RAWS?

Ensuring the correct mounting height of sensors in a Remote Automated Weather Station (RAWS) is vital primarily to avoid obstructions and ensure accurate readings. Sensors must be placed at specific heights to accurately measure environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and precipitation. If sensors are mounted too low or too high, they may be influenced by ground-level conditions or other nearby structures that can distort the data being collected.

For example, wind sensors need to be above obstacles like trees or buildings to provide an unimpeded measurement of wind speeds. Similarly, temperature sensors must be placed away from artificial heating effects that could occur near the ground level or from nearby equipment. The integrity of the data collected is crucial for weather analysis, forecasting, and any resultant emergency management decisions. By maintaining the correct mounting height, the reliability and accuracy of the information generated by the RAWS is upheld, facilitating better situational awareness and decision-making based on the weather conditions.