Yabucoa Port Metocean Observations and Prediction System

Authors

Miguel Canals, University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez Campus/CARICOOSFollow
Julio Morell, CARICOOSFollow
Patricia Chardon-Maldonado, CARICOOSFollow

BOOC Keywords

port-operations, metocean observations, prediction system, Puerto Rico, navigation, ocean forecast system, port safety, CARICOOS, IOOS

Abstract

CARICOOS developed a numerical modeling and real-time oceanographic monitoring system to support the Under Keel Clearance System at the Yabucoa Buckeye Caribbean Terminal. Operational port facilities are vital for insular communities' social and economic well-being. Harbor Pilots have emphasized the need for timely awareness of oceanographic conditions to safely board and maneuver vessels into complex navigational channels and port entrances. To address this, a dedicated decision-support tool was designed to provide: 1) real-time data from nearby ocean observing assets, and 2) model-predicted wave parameters enhanced through multivariate polynomial regression models. This model incorporates local wave and wind observations and accounts for non-linear relationships, resulting in more accurate and actionable information for informed decision-making.

Recommended Citation

Canals, Miguel; Morell, Julio; and Chardon-Maldonado, Patricia (2025) "Yabucoa Port Metocean Observations and Prediction System," Benefits of Ocean Observing Catalog (BOOC): Vol. 3: Iss. 1, Article 1.
Available at: https://cbe.miis.edu/booc/vol3/iss1/1

Document Type

Article