Specifications

RAWS-F Remote Automated Weather Station for Fire Weather

3. Station Siting and Orientation

3.1 General Description

Selecting an appropriate site for the RAWS Quick Deployment Weather

Station is critical in order to obtain accurate meteorological data. In general,

the site should be representative of the general area of interest and away from

the influence of obstructions such as buildings and trees.

See Section 8 for siting references.

NOTE

If any part of the weather station comes in contact with

power lines, you could be killed. Contact local utilities

for the location of buried utility lines before digging or

driving ground rods.

WARNING

3.2 Air Temperature and Relative Humidity

A temperature and relative humidity sensor should be located over an open

level area at least 9 m in diameter (EPA). The surface should be covered by

short grass, or where grass does not grow, the natural earth surface. The sensor

must be housed inside a radiation shield and adequately ventilated.

Situations to avoid include: 1) large industrial heat sources, 2) rooftops, 3)

steep slopes, 4) sheltered hollow, 5) high vegetation, 6) shaded areas,

7) swamps, 8) areas where snow drifts occur, and 9) low places holding

standing water after rains.

3.3 Precipitation

A rain gauge should be located over an open level area covered by short grass,

or where grass does not grow, the natural earth surface. Level the RAWS

station to ensure the sensors are level. Level the rain gage by adjusting the rain

gage leveling screw. A post level and compass ship with the RAWS station

(part #16770).

Take off the funnel and remove the rubber band securing the

tipping bucket mechanism during transport.

NOTE

3.4 Solar Radiation

A solar radiation sensor should be located to avoid shadows on the sensor at

any time. Orient the RAWS station where the solar radiation sensor faces

south (northern hemisphere) minimizing the chance of shading from other

weather station structures. Reflective surfaces and sources of artificial

radiation should be avoided. Level the RAWS station to ensure the solar

radiation sensor is level.