Thunderstorm Nowcasting: A New Layer of Safety for Offshore Operations

Marine Weather Intelligence is developing a nowcasting proof of concept to help offshore teams better anticipate thunderstorms and enhance operational safety.

At sea, few phenomena demand faster decisions and sharper foresight than thunderstorms, that’s where thunderstorm nowcasting becomes essential. This is especially true in storm-prone regions like the Gulf of Guinea, where the persistent Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and warm ocean waters create a breeding ground for sudden, high-intensity convective storms.

For offshore heavy lift operations, where timing and stability are everything, the stakes are even higher. Knowing when and where a storm cell might develop isn’t just helpful. It’s critical. That’s why Marine Weather Intelligence is developing a cutting-edge in-house nowcasting proof of concept designed to anticipate thunderstorms in near real time.

Storms don’t wait. Neither do we.

Our thunderstorm nowcasting proof of concept leverages satellite-based infrared imagery to detect convective zones as they form. Using geostationary satellite data, we apply optical flow techniques to track cloud-top temperature changes, which are key indicators of thunderstorm growth and movement.

What sets our approach apart is its precision.

Instead of relying on broad forecasts, we focus on the fine-scale storm activity that directly impacts offshore operations. Whether it’s a developing cell that could interrupt a lift, delay a vessel, or create safety concerns for the crew, we aim to deliver the insights needed to stay ahead.

The intended result is fast, accurate short-range forecasts that adapt to the unique pace of offshore operations. These forecasts are specifically tailored to clients’ areas of operation, offering critical lead time for risk mitigation and operational adjustments.

Thunderstorm Nowcasting in Action

By continuously monitoring convective activity, this proof of concept is designed to empower teams at sea to:

  • Adjust or postpone sensitive marine operations
  • Reroute vessels to safer waters
  • Implement safety protocols with greater confidence

 

Whether you’re overseeing heavy-lift logistics or coordinating complex offshore installations, our goal is the same: to make your operations safer, smarter, and more resilient to the atmosphere’s most unpredictable forces.

Smart & Safe Navigation

To follow MWI’s developments and innovation, stay connected via our website and by following our LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook account.

Share the Post:

Related Posts

Model Qualification example
NEWS

Model Qualification: A Key Pillar of Informed Routing

Marine Weather Intelligence (MWI) is transforming marine navigation with AI-powered routing and scientifically qualified weather models. MWI delivers precise, real-time route optimisation rooted in meteorological expertise. Thanks to a strong partnership with IFREMER, we can benchmark weather models and ensure data reliability. MWI redefines decision-making at sea—making it safer, simpler, and more confident than ever. Whether you’re avoiding storms or optimising for speed, MWI gives you trusted insights when they matter most.

Read More