See a few examples of how we intend to add value
Gulf Stream Impact
In the South Florida area, we have a constant current called the gulf stream moving from south to north ranging from 2-5 kts. This obviously has an impact on the sea conditions. However, when a north wind (north to south) is present, these effects are exacerbated. When this occurs, it creates a net impact scenario, that increases wave height and shortens the dominant period. Current reporting tools do not show the impact to wave height, when this scenario occurs.
Net Tide Impact
There is a viral video theme taking over social media where YouTube channels post compilations of boaters poorly navigating inlets and taking their vessels to their limits potentially putting themselves in harms way. Inlets are extremely turbulent areas, that can be dangerous for some boaters. However, these scenarios are predictable and occur when there is an east wind (east to west) and an outgoing tide. Like the guls stream, when this occurs wave height is also increased, and the dominant period is shortened. WAEVS is working with NOAA and other agencies to import tide data into our model to show this effect in our animation
User Interface Enhancements
Current forecast animation tools are NOT tailored to meet the needs of boaters, especially those in South Florida. Given their worldwide approach, they intend to serve various types of customers: ski and snowboarders, cruise and cargo ship companies, etc. that do not have the same requirements as small craft boaters. Additional details we intend to provide are:
Optimized wave height color gradient. Boaters need to see the difference of every foot, not just groups of < 2ft, 3-5ft, etc.
Increased topography accuracy and its impact on sea conditions
Enhanced particle animation
And more