V A - E A S . O R G Emergency Alert System

The coverage statistics and maps are calculated using a computer model and station data assuming ideal conditions. Coverage may 5 to 10 percent below the computer predicted coverage for the following reasons:

The computer model is sensitive to antenna performance. Antenna performance is a function of local conditions, causing signals to be stronger ignal level in some directions than others.
Most NWR stations are at existing antenna towers, provided at little or no cost. Placement of NWR antennas is dictated by the tower owner, which may result in a less than ideal set up.
The antenna may be affected by nearby structures or bodies of water.
In some special instances, the antenna may have been intentionally adjusted to be "directional" and provide better coverage to a specific area to the detriment of other areas.
Most of the stations employ equipment technology more than 20 years old. Because of variations in local site conditions, the performance of an individual transmitter and antenna may be less than predicted or expected.
Seasonal environmental conditions, such as icing or heavy rain, affect performance of a transmitter station and its various components, particularly those subject to continuous weather exposure.

The coverage maps are shown in a three color format, which relates to three estimated signal levels.