Pulse-Doppler radars—or simply “pulse radars”—are designed to better track the velocity of clouds, winds, and precipitation. They use radar in short, strong bursts with long intervals in between. To get accurate measurements, several pulse radars must be used in conjunction.
Scientists release a rawinsonde balloon, while weather instruments and a mobile radar unit (background) also monitor humidity, air pressure, precipitation, and temperature. (NOAA Photo Library, NOAA Central Library; OAR/ER/National Severe Storms Laboratory)