Weather-related radio disruptions affect broadcasts in North Savo, Finland

Weather-related radio conditions are disrupting radio broadcasts and antenna network television transmissions. According to Digita, TV broadcast disturbances have primarily occurred in areas covered by full-power transmitters. Specifically, in North Savo, local Facebook groups in Iisalmi and Varkaus have expressed confusion over the interruptions in broadcasts that have been reported in recent weeks. Full-power transmitters are used to fill gaps in coverage from larger TV stations.

This phenomenon typically arises near the edges of high-pressure systems during the spring and autumn months. Disturbances are most common in the mornings and evenings, causing a significant drop in the signal strength of the received broadcasts. Conversely, radio or TV signals coming from distant regions, even from abroad, may travel farther than usual and interfere with local broadcasts.

According to Jani Saari, the business manager for TV services at Digita, temperature differences in the air mass can create a tunnel for radio waves, allowing signals to travel farther. Adjusting the antenna direction and using an antenna amplifier can help mitigate these disruptions.

Radio conditions can persist for hours or even days, dissipating as the weather changes. Consumers can ensure optimal reception of broadcasts by accurately directing their antenna and maintaining their antenna system, including any amplifiers.

For radio enthusiasts, this phenomenon is known as “tropo conditions,” because the signal travels within the lower atmosphere of the troposphere. This autumn in Finland, listeners have reported receiving signals from Swedish, Baltic, Polish, and German radio stations due to these conditions in the FM band.