Serious Threats to National Weather Service Radars
US National Weather Service Fort Worth Texas (NWS) offices across the U.S. are on high alert after recent threats from a violent anti-government militia group, according to internal communications from NOAA.
The group, called Veterans on Patrol, falsely claims the NWS radar network — known as NEXRAD — is a system of “weather weapons” and has encouraged people to scout and even try to sabotage these vital facilities.
These radars are critical for detecting severe weather like tornadoes and thunderstorms, providing life-saving warnings for communities. They’re also used by the FAA and U.S. military.
NOAA has advised staff to stay alert, especially at remote radar sites, and to avoid confrontation — instead, they’re urged to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
This threat comes at a difficult time for the NWS, which is already understaffed due to hiring freezes and past layoffs. Losing even one radar could seriously impact the agency’s ability to keep the public safe during severe weather events.
Stay safe and support the scientists and staff working hard to protect us all.
