Havvarsler

Havvarsler, or sea warnings, are official alerts issued to mariners about dangerous conditions or hazards at sea. They are issued by national authorities, such as meteorological and maritime agencies, and are designed to prevent accidents and support safe navigation. Havvarsler can address a range of hazards, including severe weather (strong winds, storms, gales), extreme sea state with high waves, reduced visibility due to fog or rain, sea ice, dangerous currents, and known navigational hazards such as wrecks or submerged obstructions. Pollution threats, such as oil spills, may also be announced under havvarsler, sometimes with recommended response actions.

Warnings typically include information on the affected area, time frame, expected intensity, and suggested precautions. Mariners are advised to adjust routes or speed, maintain lookout, and follow official instructions. The warnings are disseminated through standardized channels such as NAVTEX broadcasts, maritime radio, meteorological service bulletins, and official websites or apps. In some regions, coastal authorities issue region-specific bulletins that supplement global weather forecasts.

Havvarsler are part of broader maritime safety and rescue systems and are coordinated with other notices to mariners, including navigational warnings and weather forecasts. They help reduce the risk of capsizes, collisions, and grounding, and are essential for planning voyages, search and rescue readiness, and port operations. Similar warning systems exist in other countries under different names, reflecting a common international practice of communicating maritime hazards.