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Coastal Storms Program
Pacific Northwest > Observing & Predicting StormsImproved Oceanographic and Meteorological ObservationsNew and Improved Ocean and Weather ObservationsAn increasing coastal population means that a growing number of people are at risk during coastal storms. To accurately forecast storm-related impacts and warn vulnerable populations, marine forecasters and coastal managers need real-time access to reliable and standardized oceanographic and meteorological observations. Through the Coastal Storms Program, new data sensors were deployed where data were previously lacking, and existing oceanographic and meteorological observation systems were upgraded. This will improve the ability of local forecasters to predict storms and their impacts and therefore warn and adequately prepare the public. How the Project WorksNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) organizations have worked together with local forecasters and users on this project to enhance the observing system networks. The result is an improved environmental monitoring and marine forecast capability for the Lower Columbia River in Oregon and Washington State. NOAA’s National Data Buoy Center operates the Marine Observation Network in the pilot area and has deployed an offshore data buoy near Tillamook Bay to enhance this network. The buoy (Station 46089) reports real-time, quality-controlled oceanographic and meteorological data. This buoy enhances the ability of local weather forecast offices to issue marine watches, warnings, and advisories. The National Water Level Observation Network, managed by the NOAA Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services, has been enhanced by upgrading selected stations with new water-level sensors, as well as sensors that measure wind speed, direction and gust, air temperature, barometric pressure, and water temperature. The Port of Portland has also worked with NOAA to establish a Physical Oceanographic Real Time System (PORTS). The Portland PORTS supports safe and cost-efficient navigation by providing shipmasters and pilots with accurate real-time information required to avoid groundings and collisions. A new station installed at Longview, Oregon, on the Columbia River by the Coastal Storms Program will support the new PORTS. For Additional Information Richard Crout |
