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KESTREL POCKET WEATHER METERS ON THE FRONT LINES AS FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE WIND-WHIPPED BLAZES

Kestrel Pocket Weather Meters are proving their value as firefighters seek the data they need to predict the behavior of the Santa Ana driven firestorms in southern California (see video). Wind speed and relative humidity are crucial conditions to monitor when predicting fire behavior, and the pocket-sized and highly accurate Kestrel Meters are the instrument of choice.
 
Kestrel Pocket Weather Meters have long been standard equipment on fire lines across the US and abroad for over 10 years. The cell phone-sized digital instruments rely on patented precision sensors to measure wind speed, temperature and relative humidity at a price that firefighters can afford. In addition to allowing firefighters to monitor the changing winds, the information obtained from a Kestrel Meter helps to predict fire behavior and determine the effectiveness of fire-fighting measures such as aerial water and flame retardant drops. The Kestrel’s quick-response RH sensor was specially designed to be accurate in very low humidity environments—often the case in wild fire situations.

The southern California topography and seasonal weather trends creates an environment ideal for wild fires. The Santa Ana winds blow over the mountains between coastal California and the desert. As the wind blows down the mountains, it is compressed and warmed, causing the relative humidity to drop drastically —often to under 20%. Low humidity dries out vegetation, making it better fuel for burning. Additionally, as the wind travels through the canyons and valleys it gains speed, fanning the flames. Swirling winds that quickly change direction are also common and send flames flying into new areas.

Nielsen-Kellerman’s Kestrel Weather division has been researching, developing and manufacturing technically advanced portable weather instruments for over ten years and owns multiple patents on their unique features. Kestrel Pocket Weather Meters are employed by thousands of users in hundreds of different activities around the world. The Kestrel family includes 10 models with accessories to adapt the Meters to suit individual applications. For complete product information, visit www.kestrelweather.com.

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-Know Your Conditions-

For more information, contact Amy Winner at
610.447.1555 x219, awinner@nkhome.com or visit

www.nkhome.com

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