Sydney Ports has invested in the latest weather technology as part of its ongoing commitment to improving harbour safety. Global weather intelligence company MetraWeather has been contracted to deliver real-time weather and marine forecasting information. The new services will provide regularly updated high resolution and probabilistic forecasts of important marine and weather conditions, likely to impact on the day-to-day and longer-term running of the port. Sydney Ports will also have access to MetraWeather’s interactive under-keel clearance safety and berth safety forecasts, helping to plan not only for the safety of ships in the harbour, but also for those wanting to enter.

"With the increasing amount of cargo, and the large number of cruise ship visitors we have through our ports, safety is a huge priority for us. With MetraWeather’s forecasts we know exactly what’s happening in the harbour and what’s on the horizon, so we can be prepared," said Sydney Ports Executive General Manager Operations and Harbour Master, Philip Holliday.

"Botany Bay is the second busiest box terminal in Australia and Port Jackson is home to the nation’s busiest cruise terminals - we have a major responsibility for the safe navigation of these ships and this real-time data will be of great assistance. "We chose MetraWeather’s service because it provides the information we need in a usable way," said Captain Holliday. "The forecasts are crucial to the running of the ports. They help ensure the safety of cruise ship passengers as well as the security of freight. In the long-term, the forecasts will help improve safety practice and protocol, and will aid us in reducing workplace incidents."

MetraWeather Business Development Manager Peter Fisher said the company would deliver wind speed, direction and gusts as well as wave height, and swell and tide through its online industry-specific MetOceanView technology. "Our expertise in advanced numerical weather prediction, classic meteorology and oceanographic forecasting means we’re able to deliver forecasts ideally tailored for companies such as Sydney Ports. These forecasts not only help them plan for their activities in the harbour, but the information also lets the ports monitor weather systems well outside the port area that are likely to impact on the safe travel of vessels heading towards the port," he said. "Sydney Ports aspires to be a leader in world-class, efficient and sustainable ports and logistics networks. We think MetraWeather’s forecasts will help us achieve that aim," said Mr Holliday.

Source: Voxy