Severe Thunderstorm & Lightning Radar — California
The California Thunderstorm Radar tracks real-time convective storm cells, lightning discharges, severe wind shear, and potential hail cores operating across {state}. Monitor live severe thunderstorm warnings, cloud-to-ground lightning strikes, and convective storm cells across California in real time. Data updates every 5 to 10 minutes from NOAA & NWS dual-polarization Doppler stations.
NWS Radar Station Infrastructure (California)
Radar surveillance across California relies on National Weather Service (NWS) NEXRAD WSR-88D Doppler stations including **KVTX** (Los Angeles / Oxnard Radar in Oxnard), **KMUX** (San Francisco Bay Area Radar in San Jose), **KNKX** (San Diego Radar in Miramar), **KDAX** (Sacramento Radar in Davis), **KHNX** (San Joaquin Valley Radar in Hanford). These high-frequency microwave radar sites transmit pulsed radio beams every 4.5 to 10 minutes, generating real-time base reflectivity scans.
Active Station Callsigns
How to Read Thunderstorm Radar Scale
Indicates light rain or atmospheric drizzle that usually does not impede travel.
Represents steady, moderate rainfall. Roads may experience pooling and reduced visibility.
Indicates torrential downpours, severe convective thunderstorms, lightning, or potential hail cores.
Regional Climate & Atmospheric Context
California weather patterns feature atmospheric rivers, winter Pacific storm fronts, coastal fog marine layers, and Santa Ana offshore wind events impacting wildland-urban interfaces. Using S-band dual-polarization technology, radar pulses measure raindrop diameter and ice density to distinguish between light drizzle, torrential downpours, and hail.