Best Camping Radio for NOAA Weather Forecast
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Best Camping Radio for NOAA Weather Forecast
Staying in the know when it comes to weather is always a good thing to practice. On the other hand, there are times that being ignorant to an impending storm could be dangerous, and even life threatening. Things such as flash flooding and tornadoes can pop up completely unannounced at the drop of a hat. Understanding the requirements to listen to NOAA Weather Radio should be a necessary skill that everyone should take the time to learn. Our goal is to guide you towards choosing the best camping radio for NOAA Weather Forecast notifications!
Let’s take some time to make a few clarifications before we get started. You might hear NOAA Weather Radios referred to as “Hand Crank Radios” or “Weather Alert Radios”. Below you’ll find vital information on how they function, and ways you can listen in to your local NOAA Weather Radio station to stay informed and safe.
What is a Hand Crank Radio?
Hand crank radios have been in use since the 1960s thanks to their utility during wartime scenarios. In the most basic of terms, a hand crank radio is usually an AM/FM/NOAA device charged via human power. This human power, of course, is generated by steadily spinning the hand crank. The optimal cranking speed can vary between models, and is normally specified by the manufacturer.
How Do Hand Crank Radios Work?
Hand crank radios function on a concept known as electromagnetic induction, discovered by Michael Faraday on August 29, 1831. Electromagnetic induction is the process by which a voltage is created via an electrical conductor due to magnetic field changes. This technique can be found in many places, such as transformers, inductors, generators, and electric motors.
To simplify matters, a hand crank radio works by spinning a magnet wrapped in a coil of wire. When you use the hand crank, the wire rotates around the magnet producing electricity via electromagnetic induction. This energy is then stored somewhere, such as a battery or capacitor, where it can then be accessed.
Some hand crank radios also provide multiple avenues to provide the power necessary for proper function. The more high quality units allow you to charge via wall socket, USB, and even solar. Additionally, some also have a spot to add your own AA or AAA batteries for an added backup source.
How Much is a NOAA Weather Radio?
A hand crank NOAA Weather Radio can vary in price depending on their build quality and features. Browsing the selections at online retailers, you can expect to pay anywhere from $15 to upwards of $100. With such a wide variety to choose from, there is no excuse not to own a hand crank NOAA radio. Even the cheapest radios will perform their duties admirably, while the more expensive models will provide additional creature comforts and features. In the end, you really can’t go wrong with choosing an emergency weather alert radio.
How to Listen to NOAA Weather Radio?
NOAA Weather Radio, or NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, is a group of VHF FM weather radio stations based in the United States. These stations transmit between 5-1000 watts. Tuning into a NOAA Weather Radio station is done with a VHF capable receiver. These receivers must be able to receive one of the seven channels between the 162.400 MHz to 162.550 MHz frequencies. There are over 1,000 individual antennas scattered across the United States and surrounding territories. These provide coverage to all 50 states, with information originating from your local National Weather Station office.
NOAA Weather Radio has also worked with the FCC (Federal Communication Commission), and covers more than just weather alerts. NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts information for many things, such as natural disasters, AMBER alerts, and 911 telephone outages. As you can see, these devices are able to do much more than just provide local weather and storm alerts.
Why Do You Need a Weather Radio?
What happens when your power goes out for an extended period of time? What if a natural disaster is bearing down on your location? Even worse, what if a manmade disaster is at hand?
Hand crank NOAA Weather Radios are extremely handy little devices. Their usefulness in an emergency situation cannot be overstated. Many units offer the ability to charge your smart phone (or other USB device) from the internal battery. Though keep in mind, it is highly common during severe weather to lose power, as well as cellular service. In this situation, having AM/FM and NOAA weather bands at your disposal to stay updated can be a lifesaver. In addition, most Weather Radios incorporate other helpful perks, such as flashlights, reading lamps, SOS strobe lights, and warning sirens.
With such useful devices coming in at very affordable prices, there really is no excuse not to own a hand crank NOAA Weather Radio. Unfortunately, uninformed people tend to go out assuming the worst is over, only to get caught up in dangerous situations. Staying in the know during a disaster can often mean the difference between life and death. Don’t let yourself or a loved one become a statistic when such a solution is so easily available
Do NOAA Weather Radios Work in Canada?
If you live in Canada, or are perhaps looking to do some traveling, you’ll be pleased to know that NOAA Weather Radios DO work in Canada. The Canadian station equivalents are run by Environment Canada, which also includes the Canadian weather agency. These stations use the same frequencies as their US counterparts, making tuning in quick and painless. In areas with limited local media services, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation operates a transmitter which aids in carrying this service onto standardized AM/FM frequencies.
Can I listen to NOAA Weather Radio Online?
While you CAN listen to most NOAA Weather Radio stations online (though MANY are unavailable), it isn’t to be depended on. Once the power goes out and cell service drops you’ll be left in the dark with only your wits about you. A hand crank NOAA Weather Radio is your only fool proof option after everything hits the fan. As with everything in life, having a backup plan is a very good course of action. Don’t allow yourself to be uninformed when you need that information the most!
What is the Best Backpacking NOAA Weather Radio?
“Best” is a relative term. The ideal radio will likely differ from person to person, on factors such as price, aesthetics, and features. Rather than try to choose something that appeals to everyone, I’ve decided to break things down into price categories. Something for everyone, no matter your budget! Please keep in mind this is not a definitive list. There are hundreds of models of NOAA Weather Radios available, and these three are just among the top rated available in their price range.
Best Backpacking NOAA Weather Radio under $20 - RunningSnail
This little unit by RunningSnail tops the list as the best bang for the buck hand crank NOAA Weather Radio. Not only that, but it is easily the most portable radio on this list due to its small size.
Notable features include:
- Smart phone charging via USB cable
- 1000mAh internal battery
- 1W LED flashlight
- 3 recharge methods
- Micro USB
- Solar
- Hand crank
Click here to check out the RunningSnail Emergency Hand Crank AM/FM NOAA Solar Weather Radio!
Best Backpacking NOAA Weather Radio under $30 - RunningSnail 2000mAh
In the under $30 category, once again we find a RunningSnail product. For around ten dollars more than the previous model, you receive a fair amount of upgrades.
Notable features include:
- Smart phone charging via USB cable
- 2000mAh internal battery
- SOS alarm with flashing red light
- 4 recharge methods
- Micro USB
- Solar
- Hand crank
- AAA batteries
Click here to check out the RunningSnail 2000mAh Solar Crank NOAA Weather Radio!
Best Backpacking NOAA Weather Radio under $50 - Kaito KA500
Topping this list as the most expensive option, we have the Kaito KA500 5-way powered AM/FM/SW/NOAA Weather Alert Radio. For a $49.99 MSRP, Kaito has included an impressive amount of feature flexibility in this premium unit.
Notable features include:
- 5 recharge methods
- Hand crank
- Solar
- AA batteries
- 5V USB input
- 5V AC/DC input
- 24/7 real-time weather updates via PEAS (public emergency alert system)
- 5-LED reading lamp
- LED flashlight
- Telescopic antenna up to 14.5” high
- Impact resistant
- Water-resistant ABS material
Click here to check out the Kaito KA500 5-Way Powered AM/FM/SW/NOAA Radio!
Best Camping Radio for NOAA Weather Forecast - Conclusion
Hand crank NOAA Weather Radio devices deserve to be recognized for their life saving capabilities. Right alongside fire detectors, they rank as a small price to pay for the disasters they can help you avoid. Hopefully we’ve guided you towards choosing the best camping radio to suit your needs. Show your friends and family how much you care by adding another layer of protection to this hectic and unpredictable planet we call home. Inclement weather can strike at any moment, and weather radios make a wonderful first line of defense. Finally, if you’re planning a camping trip, check out our article “How to Bear Proof Your Campsite for Camping Safety“. Happy travels!
