Most residents of Ohio and Northwest PA. are within listening range of a NOAA Weather Radio transmitter. The NOAA Weather Radio network for Ohio and Northwest PA consists nine transmitters. Broadcasting frequencies and call letters are as follows:
Approximate aerial coverage of NOAA Weather Radio stations in Ohio are depicted on the map above. Since FM radio transmissions are line of sight, an antenna may be needed to monitor NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts, especially in fringe areas. However, sometimes just moving the receiver from one location in the building to another can increased reception. In addition, atmospheric conditions and topography will affect transmissions to varying degrees. to varying degrees.
Weather radio broadcasts are repeated about every five minutes and are revised whenever forecasts are updated or weather conditions change. These broadcasts contain storm watches and warnings, radar information, current weather conditions, local area forecasts, Lake Erie forecasts, extended forecasts and special educational information.
From November through April special forecasts for travelers in and around Ohio are broadcast from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Climatological data is broadcast on all Ohio stations from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and on some stations similar data is aired from 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
NOAA Weather Radio is the most efficient way to receive weather warnings and updated forecasts as you are getting the information directly from the National Weather Service. During severe weather, National Weather Service personnel interrupt routine broadcasts and substitute special warning messages.
One of the most valuable features of Weather Radio is that Weather Service personnel can activate specially designed warning receivers by transmitting a 1050 cycle-per-second tone when warnings are issued. This tone will sound an alarm or automatically increase the volume in many receivers. Such receivers allow interested listeners to be alerted to warnings for their area even if they do not have the volume set at an audible level.
NOAA Weather Radio has been the designated as the sole Government operated radio system to provide direct warnings into private homes for both natural disasters and nuclear attacks. Also, information about large scale man-made disasters such as toxic spills and nuclear accidents can be broadcast over these transmitters
FAQ'S (Frequently Asked Questions)
What kind of radio do I need?
You will need a Weather radio receiver that is either tunable or crystal controlled.
How much does a Weather radio cost?
Weather radios are available in a variety of styles and prices. The price is usually proportioned to the sensitivity and quality
of the receiver. For the best results consider receivers with the following features:
Other desirable features are a warning alarm, alternative power source, and a provision for an external antenna input connection. IN SHORT A GOOD WEATHER RADIO WILL COST UNDER $30.
Where can I purchase a Weather radio?
Weather radio can be purchased at almost any store that sell electronics, such as Radio Shack.