Observing Surface Currents in the Strait of Georgia
With billions of dollars and millions of passengers passing through this delicate ecosystem each year, it is important that professional mariners and recreational boaters alike know how strong currents may alter their float plan. Below are recent observations (PST: UTC -8:00, PDT UTC -7:00) from an oceanographic radar system.
Disclaimer: Observations are hourly averages (NOT real time) and should be considered with care prior to use in navigation.
Who Should Use This Data?
Observations of surface currents are used by researchers studying circulation and those in maritime industries such as marine search and rescue; oil spill prediction and response; and commercial and recreational vessel operators. With current speeds approaching two knots (3.7 kilometers per hour) in some locations and changing rapidly with both tidal and wind conditions, this is another tool for the marine community to utilize in their preparations and operations on the water.
How Are These Observations Made?
A network of four land-ba