What does the Radar Summary Chart typically lack that pilots would seek before a flight?

The Radar Summary Chart is designed primarily to provide pilots with an overview of significant weather features, including areas of precipitation and potentially hazardous weather, but it does not typically include a comprehensive, detailed analysis of broader hazardous weather patterns like frontal systems, low-pressure areas, or high-impact weather events. Instead, it delivers a snapshot of the current radar information focusing on precipitation intensity and movement, which is crucial in immediate decision-making.

Before a flight, pilots often seek information that summarizes larger weather trends or hazards that could impact their flight path, such as areas of low pressure or the general movement of fronts. This broader overall context allows pilots to plan accordingly, taking into account not just immediate issues indicated on a radar summary but also understanding how overarching weather patterns could affect flight safety and efficiency over the duration of their journey.