Sailing Magazine
PredictWind is well known for its world leading accurate wind forecasts, and now also leads the way with accurate and intuitive wave forecasts. PredictWind runs the PWG & PWE wave model at 50km resolution and has recently added the NAM wave model from ECMWF at an incredible 14 km resolution with global coverage.
What does the wave height represent?
The wave height is the mean wave height from trough to crest of the highest third of the waves, which is known as the ‘significant wave height’. The significant wave height is generated from the primary swell and local wind wave height. The effect of ocean current is also taken into account.
What do the Wave Maps show?
The colour gradients show the significant wave height for swell and wind waves, the black arrows show the primary wave direction, and the contours indicate the mean swell period in seconds. By selecting areas of the map you can see the wave height, period and direction.
How are the wave forecasts produced?
The proprietary PredictWind wind forecasts (PWG/PWE) are used to drive the WaveWatch III wave model run by PredictWind to produce an accurate 50km resolution PWG & PWE wave forecast. In addition we have recently added the WAM model from ECMWF that is run at an incredible 14 km resolution globally, and currently rated the best wave model from any national weather centre.
What is the global coverage for wave forecasts?
We have full global ocean coverage with the PWG/PWE/WAM wave model. The WAM model from ECMWF has full global coverage, including the Great Lakes.
Do the PredictWind tools use wave forecasts?
Yes, the PredictWind Weather Routing & Departure Planning tools use this data to optimise your route for comfort, and highlight any areas that could be dangerous in terms of waves.
What packages include wave forecasts?
The PWG/PWE wave models are available on the Website and PredictWind App with the Free Package, whilst the WAM model from ECMWF is available with the Standard Package. The WAM GRIB files are available with the Professional Package.
More Info HERE
