A high-resolution weather forecasting tool for marine operations management in ports and harbours

A web-based tool that provides marine managers and operational personnel with high-resolution and site-specific weather data and forecast information is presented and described. The MetOcean Operations and Planning System (MOPS) architecture uses the latest ocean and atmospheric forecast models, customised at the most appropriate scale for a port or harbour situation. The transformation of waves along the shipping approaches and into the entrance region is captured, along with the coastal currents, water levels and winds. With data for calibration, long wave surging at the berths can also be predicted with good accuracy. Integration of real time measured waves, long waves and winds into MOPS allows the forecast accuracy and short range weather trends to be further monitored.