Data from
other sources and numerical
models
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Numerical forecasting models
In
addition to data received from the buoys various sources
of information are used on a regular basis to prepare a
total assessment of the conditions offshore and assist
with operational forecasting in conjunction with the
Client’s existing models.
The SEAWATCH system uses the output from various
numeric regional models. Typical examples include:
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Atmospheric
models providing a forecast of major atmospheric
parameters such as air-pressure, wind speed,
precipitation, evaporation, temperature, dust and
air-born pollutant transport.
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Circulation
models providing a total picture of water transport,
water level, temperature and salinity of the entire
water column of the selected model area.
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Wave
model providing wave forecasts for deep and shallow
water.
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Oil-spill
models predicting the fate of an oil-spill including
oil-slick drift, dispersion, evaporation and
stranding.
Examples
of the atmospheric model and the hydrodynamic model as
used by the Greek SEAWATCH project POSEIDON
are shown in the figures below.
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Dust
forecast
The
atmospheric model
provides dust forecast
as one of few models
in the world. The
performance of the
forecast has extensive
verification based on
experiences from the
Mediterranean areas. |
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Cloud
forecast
Typical forecast
gives total cloud
coverage
distinguishing between
high and low clouds. |
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Pressure and precipitation
A total
distribution of
pressure and
precipitation as shown
for the model domain
covering Northern
Europe with the
Mediterranean.
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Wind
forecast
Wind
direction and wind
speed forecasts ass
shown here form the
model domain covering
northern Europe and
the Mediterranean.
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Pollution
forecast
In
addition to the model
outputs shown in the
examples above, the
Seawatch Atmospheric
model may provide
output from various
levels in the
atmosphere wind,
pressure and
temperature forecasts.
It may also be
programmed to provide
various outputs of
aerosol and pollutants
transport as shown
from a similar setup
on the East coast of
USA.
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Wave
forecast
Based
on input from the
atmospheric model the
wave model calculates
wave distribution of
wave height,
wave-period and
direction.
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Circulation
model
Forecast
of ocean circulation
at various depths may
be provided.
Further the
model provides output
of salinity, density
and temperature.
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Data
management and
forecasting services
SEAWATCH data
received from the
buoys are subject to
an automatic data
control and storage
system.
The SEAWATCH
system utilises the
Ocean Info or
StationGuard
software packages.
These are
completely flexible
systems for the
processing,
analysis,
presentation and
storage of
environmental data.
The software
supports a large set
of export formats
and can easily be
adapted to local
systems. The
automatic data
control is followed
by a manual control
done by the
forecasting team.
Special
tailored forecasts
may be prepared for
specific users.
These forecasts may
include aspects of
risk assessment and
advice concerning
actions related to
changes in e.g. the
Sea State,
biological
parameters or
pollution. In some
cases the
forecasting activity
for special users
creates additional
activities such as
contingency action
connected to red
tides or oil spills.
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SEAWATCH
system
WAVESCAN
buoy