How does weather affect RADAR performance?

Weather significantly impacts RADAR performance, particularly through attenuation, which refers to the weakening of the radar signals. Factors such as precipitation, fog, snow, and ice can absorb or scatter the radar waves, resulting in a diminished signal strength when the waves return to the receiver. This attenuation is especially pronounced with heavy rainfall or snow, where the particles can disrupt the propagation of the radar signals, leading to reduced range and accuracy in detecting targets.

In contrast, other options suggest effects like signal improvement, complete blockage of signals, or no effect at all, which do not accurately reflect the interactions between weather phenomena and radar systems. While certain atmospheric conditions might enhance radar performance to some extent, for instance, in the presence of unusual temperature inversions, the overall effect of adverse weather is typically one of signal degradation rather than clarity enhancement or total obstruction.