How can Doppler RADAR be used in weather forecasting?

Doppler RADAR is primarily utilized in weather forecasting to track the movement of precipitation. This technology works by sending out radio waves that bounce off precipitation particles like raindrops or snowflakes. The Doppler effect allows the system to measure changes in the frequency of the reflected waves, which is directly related to the speed and direction of the precipitation. By analyzing these changes, meteorologists can determine how fast and in which direction storms are moving, helping to predict severe weather events, such as thunderstorms and tornadoes more accurately.

The other options, although they relate to aspects of weather, do not leverage the unique capabilities of Doppler RADAR. Measuring humidity involves analyzing atmospheric moisture without a direct link to precipitation movement. Assessing temperature changes typically requires different instrumentation, such as thermometers or satellite data, rather than Doppler RADAR. Lastly, while Doppler RADAR can provide some information about cloud formations, it is not primarily designed for visualizing structural aspects of clouds as other imaging technologies would be. Thus, tracking precipitation movement stands out as the main application of Doppler RADAR in weather forecasting.