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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ham-microwave-precipitation

What weather condition might decrease range at microwave frequencies?

Precipitation.

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  1. High winds
  2. Low barometric pressure
  3. Precipitation ✔

Why: Rain and other precipitation absorb and scatter microwave signals. A heavy downpour can noticeably shorten a microwave link.

Huh, didn't know that: Satellite TV dropping out in a heavy storm is the same effect at work.

The dad joke
My microwave signal refuses to go out without an umbrella.
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References

Answer: Precipitation. Rain and other precipitation absorb and scatter microwave signals. A heavy downpour can noticeably shorten a microwave link.

  1. 2026-2030 Technician Class Question Pool, T3A07 ncvec.org/downloads/2026-2030%20Technician%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%20Public%20Release%20Feb%2019%202026.pdf
    Precipitation
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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