U.S. Rep. Dale Strong is continuing his push for a next-generation weather radar system in North Alabama, meeting with National Weather Service Director Ken Graham this week about plans to modernize the aging radar network serving the Tennessee Valley.
Strong, vice chairman of the House Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, said the discussion focused on the future of the decades-old NEXRAD radar in Hytop in Jackson County and ensuring forecasters and emergency officials have reliable coverage during severe weather.
“As a first responder, I know firsthand how critical accurate and timely weather forecasting are to keeping our communities safe. In North Alabama, that means making sure our forecasters and emergency personnel have the reliable radar coverage and data they need to warn families when dangerous weather occurs,” Strong said.
“As the Hytop radar in Jackson County continues to age, it is imperative that we work toward delivering on the next generation of radar system that will serve our region. I will continue working to ensure we have reliable, timely coverage for our communities across North Alabama.”
Strong and Graham also discussed the role of the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Huntsville and coordination between NWS forecasters and local emergency management officials during severe weather events.
The meeting follows Strong’s questioning of National Weather Service officials during an appropriations oversight hearing earlier this year about plans to replace the Hytop radar.
The Hytop installation is part of the nationwide NEXRAD, or Next Generation Weather Radar, network used by the National Weather Service to detect precipitation, wind and other conditions important to forecasting and issuing hazardous weather warnings.
Strong is advocating for North Alabama as the National Weather Service moves toward its next generation of radar technology.
The fiscal 2027 Commerce, Justice and Science appropriations bill approved by the House Appropriations Committee includes $25 million for continued development, acquisition, integration and implementation of the Radar Next program.
Radar Next is intended to eventually modernize and replace the existing NEXRAD network.
The appropriations bill passed the House Appropriations Committee in May and requires further congressional action.
Strong has pushed for the Hytop radar to be included in the modernization effort, citing the importance of reliable severe weather coverage across North Alabama and the Tennessee Valley.
The issue carries particular significance in a region frequently affected by severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, where radar data is used by National Weather Service meteorologists and emergency managers to track storms and issue warnings.
Strong represents Alabama’s 5th Congressional District, which includes much of North Alabama.
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