13/10/2025
You may notice digital breakup or no signal on you TV at present. We have had a large number of calls this morning with the same problem. Our vans have currently attended 3 calls which have ranged from Coleraine to Kells. Also have had calls in Belfast but havent attended yet to confirm if its the same issue.
High atmospheric pressure can affect TV signals by causing disruptions like pixilation or signal loss because it creates conditions where signals are lifted higher in the sky or interfere with one another. This is usually a temporary problem that clears up once the weather changes, and it is advised not to re-tune your TV during the event. Satellite and cable TV are not affected.
How high pressure affects TV signals:
Signal lifting: High-pressure systems can create a layer of warm air high in the atmosphere. This layer can act like a mirror, trapping and lifting TV signals higher than they normally travel.
Signal interference: Because the signal is lifted, it can be picked up by a different transmitter than the one you are supposed to be using. This can cause interference and overlapping signals, leading to a weaker or broken picture.
Temporary issue: These disruptions are temporary and will pass once the atmospheric conditions change.
What to do when high pressure affects your TV
Don't re-tune: Avoid re-tuning your TV during the high-pressure event, as this can cause you to lose services or store signals from the wrong transmitter. You may need to re-tune again after the weather has cleared.
Wait for the weather to clear: The best course of action is to wait for the weather to change.
Switch to alternative services: If you have an internet connection, you can watch content through streaming services like BBC iPlayer to avoid the problem.
Check for warnings: You can check with services like the BBC or Freeview for any high-pressure warnings in your area.
Check after the weather changes: If problems persist after the weather improves, you can then try re-tuning your TV.