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 in the PredictWind App
Open the PredictWind App (iOS or Android) and log in.
From the Main Menu, select your preferred map: Wind, Rain, AI Rain, Wave, Current, Synoptic or Custom Map.
Use the Custom Map to view additional weather variables that do not have their own dedicated map.
Maps can be viewed in single or split-screen mode, allowing you to compare different forecast models or weather variables side by side.
Select Forecast Options (top right of the screen) to choose forecast variables, models, resolutions and display options.
Key Features
1. Map Layer
Using the Custom Map 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
Use the Split Screen button in the top-left corner to display two maps side by side, allowing you to compare different forecast models and/or weather variables at the same time.
To view different weather variables on each map, deselect “Same forecast as the other Map.” This allows you to display two different variables, such as wind speed on one map and rain on the other.
Some useful comparisons include:
Wind & Current: Compare wind and current conditions to identify areas where opposing wind and current may create short, steep waves.
Rain & Cloud: Compare rainfall and cloud cover to identify approaching weather systems and potential poor visibility.
Waves: Compare wave height, direction and period to better understand expected sea conditions.
3. Forecast Models
PredictWind uses multiple weather models (PWG, PWE, ECMWF, GFS, AIFS, UKMO, PW AI, ICON, HRRR, RRFS & 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.
To learn 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 general synoptic 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.
To learn more about 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.
