Maps are a powerful tool for understanding complex weather systems. Split-screen mode helps you make more informed decisions when comparing different models or forecast variables. Use the animation and expanded screen modes to visualize and focus on critical areas, ensuring your weather planning is as accurate as possible.
How to Access Forecast Maps
1. Log in to the PredictWind website.
2. Select Forecast > Maps from the Main Menu to open the map interface.
3. All maps can be viewed on a single or split screen.
4. Click on the Forecast Options (top right of the page) to choose variables, models, resolutions, and display options.
Key Features
1. Single Map or Split Screen Mode
You can view the map as a single forecast model and variable or select the split-screen feature, which offers two great ways to compare weather information side-by-side.
SINGLE MAP:
SPLIT SCREEN:
2. Forecast Variables
You can choose from various forecast variables, depending on the weather conditions you are most concerned about. Wind, gust, CAPE, wave, currents, rain, cloud, isobar, air temperature and sea temperature are available. In split-screen mode, you can compare the same variable for two separate models, for instance, ECMWF Wind vs GFS Wind.
Compare Different Forecast Variables
If you need to analyze different weather variables, deselect “Same forecast as the other Map.” This allows you to display two different forecast variables (e.g., wind speed on one side and Rain on the other).
- Wind & Current: Analyse wind vs current for situations that can create short, sharp waves
- Rain & Cloud: Analyze upcoming rain or cloud cover to avoid poor visibility or pre-frontal storm conditions.
- Waves: Monitor wave direction, height and period.
3. Forecast Models
PredictWind uses multiple weather models (PWG, PWE, ECMWF, GFS, SPIRE, UKMO, HRRR, NAM & AROME) to increase forecast accuracy and reliability. Each model has unique strengths; by comparing them, we provide a more comprehensive view of weather conditions. Our high-resolution models are optimized for marine environments, offering precision for local forecasts, while global models capture larger trends. This ensures you get the best forecast for both short-term and long-range planning.
If you'd like to find out more about the models we offer, please click HERE.
When you want to compare the same variable but with two different forecast models (e.g., ECMWF vs. GFS), select the “Same forecast as the other Map” option. This ensures that both sides of the screen show the same forecast variable, allowing you to spot differences between models easily.
4. Forecast Resolution
At PredictWind, we offer multiple forecast models, each designed with varying resolution options to give you the most accurate and relevant weather data for your needs. A forecast model's resolution refers to the size of the grid it uses to calculate weather patterns. A higher-resolution model (1km/ 8km) uses a smaller grid, meaning it can provide more detailed and localized predictions. In contrast, a lower-resolution model (50km/ 100km) covers a larger area with less detail but still offers valuable insights.
5. Display
The map display options on the PredictWind website provide different ways to visualize wind data. You can choose between streamlines, feathers, or directional arrows. Each option offers a unique way to interpret wind direction and speed, so you can select the one that best suits your preferences or weather analysis needs.
Streamlines: This option shows smooth, flowing lines representing wind direction and intensity. Streamlines create a continuous flow across the map, making it easy to visualize wind patterns and how they interact across regions.
Feathers: This more traditional display shows wind barbs, where the “feathers” on the barb indicate wind speed, and the stem points in the direction of the wind. It's a classic and precise way to interpret wind conditions, commonly used in meteorology.
Directional Arrows: Simple arrows show both the wind direction and the colour gradient, showing the speed at specific points on the map. The arrowhead points in the direction the wind is blowing, providing an intuitive, easy-to-read display.
NOTE - Cloud and isobars do not have display options.
6. GMDSS
The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) is an international safety system that broadcasts weather forecasts, navigational warnings, and emergency information to sea vessels, ensuring maritime operations' safety worldwide. You can now view the GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) weather warnings overlaid on any of our weather maps. The text forecasts are analysed in the PredictWind cloud using machine learning. Then each weather system, front and warning region is plotted accurately on the map, giving you a global view of the GMDSS forecast.
If you would like more details on GMDSS and our process, please click HERE.
7. Animation speed
The animation speed feature on the PredictWind website maps allows you to control the playback speed of weather forecast animations. As the weather data is displayed on the map, this feature enables you to adjust how fast or slow the forecast progresses.
8. Show forecast options by default
You can toggle 'Show forecast options by default' on or off in the Forecast Maps section on the PredictWind website.
On: The Forecast Options box will automatically appear when you open Maps.
Off: The Forecast Options box will remain hidden when reopening Maps.
9. Expanded Screen Mode
You can use the expanded screen mode to get a larger view of the forecast map. This feature is particularly helpful when you need to zoom in on specific areas or details in smaller screens that are harder to interpret.
