LocationMt Bassett, Mackay Harbour Radar TypeWF 44 S Band Typical Availability0000-0915; 1030-1515; 1630-2115; 2230-0000

Mackay radar has a good view of the surrounding area and is rarely affected by anomalous propagation. Some permanent echoes occur to the north and west. Showers in the SE trade wind flow are generally well picked up but when they are restricted in height the range of detection decreases so that showers around the Whitsunday Islands and northward can be under-represented. Generally the radar's range for coastal showers extends from about St Lawrence to Bowen. Path attenuation also occurs when the radar beam passes through an intense thunderstorm cell; the returned signal from cells further along that path will be reduced. Apart from these features, the radar performs well and gives a reasonably accurate representation of rainfall intensity. During episodes of fresh to strong winds (>20kt or 38km/h) sea clutter can be seen up to 30km from the coast possibly masking light inshore showers.Intermittent interruptions of service are expected for the Mackay radar from February 3rd through to March 15th. These interruptions are needed due to the construction of a new meteorological facility. Apologies for any inconvenience. Normal operations will resume during severe weather.