SMEWS

SMEWS, or the Severe Marine Event Warning System, is a program developed by the United States National Weather Service (NWS) to provide timely and accurate warnings about significant marine hazards. It aims to enhance safety for mariners, coastal communities, and those involved in marine activities by communicating the potential for extreme weather conditions at sea and along coastlines.

The system focuses on a range of severe marine events. These can include high winds, dangerous seas, storm surge, and other hazardous weather phenomena that pose a significant risk to vessels and coastal infrastructure. SMEWS is designed to integrate various data sources, such as weather models, buoy observations, and satellite imagery, to assess the likelihood and intensity of these events.

When a severe marine event is anticipated, the NWS issues specific warnings and advisories through SMEWS. These communications are disseminated through a variety of channels, including the NWS website, NOAA Weather Radio, marine radio broadcasts, and direct coordination with maritime authorities and emergency managers. The goal is to ensure that information reaches those who need it in a timely manner, allowing for preparation and mitigation of potential impacts. SMEWS plays a crucial role in the NWS's mission to protect life and property by providing critical weather intelligence for the marine environment.