What weather condition might decrease range at microwave frequencies?

Precipitation is a significant factor that can decrease range at microwave frequencies. When microwaves pass through rain, snow, or other forms of precipitation, the water droplets can scatter and absorb the signals, leading to increased attenuation. This absorption results in a weaker signal reaching the receiver, which ultimately reduces the effective communication range.

While high winds, low barometric pressure, and colder temperatures can influence radio wave propagation, their effects are generally less impactful on microwave frequencies compared to the attenuation caused by precipitation. High winds might cause physical disruptions in antenna alignment, but they don’t inherently decrease signal strength in the same manner as precipitation. Low barometric pressure can change general atmospheric conditions but doesn't significantly affect microwave transmission. Colder temperatures might affect equipment performance or signal behavior minimally, but precipitation is the dominant factor in reducing range at microwave frequencies.