The National Weather Service is upgrading the Doppler radar in Paducah with the aim of giving forecasters more accurate information with which to make forecasts.

The service is replacing the nearly 20-year-old radar at Barkley Regional Airport with dual-polarization radar. Meteorologist Dan Spaeth told The Paducah Sun (http://bit.ly/TGnl7I ) the upgrade will allow meteorologist the ability to scan approaching weather systems to accurately determine the type of precipitation falling and amounts, in addition to allowing a clearer radar picture for impending emergency situations.

While the upgrade takes place, the weather service will use radar data from surrounding offices in Evansville, Ind., and St. Louis to keep the office operational.

The station at Fort Campbell will receive an upgrade in the coming months.