Exciting things are happening in Wendell, Minn.

Last Monday, there was an opportunity to see the x-band weather radar up close and personal.

The City of Wendell, along with Grant County, have been working with Climavision to deploy the first x-band pilot project in Minnesota.

This project is the first effort to help fill low-level radar coverage gaps in the state.

This public/private partnership is the first step in helping to keep local responders and our communities better prepared for all types of severe weather.

The radar lift took place on Oct. 19. Once secured to the water tower, it will be inspected. The goal is to have it operational and collecting weather data as soon as possible, it was stated.

There are 26 other surrounding counties who will have the opportunity to participate in a 12-month free trial to see how the data can benefit their local weather protocols.  Pope County is one of those counties.

“We are very excited to work with the National Weather Service as well, as they are the weather alerting authority for all citizens. More eyes to the sky, is always better,” according to Christina L. Lindquist of Grant County Emergency Management. “As the site work continues, we ask anyone in the area to follow all safety signs and precautions. We look forward to continued collaboration in making our communities better prepared, and supporting our responders.”