Irish Shelf SWAN Wave Model
The Marine Institute has implemented a SWAN model for Irish waters. SWAN (Simulating Waves Nearshore) is a third-generation spectral wave model developed primarily for coastal regions.
The Irish Shelf wave model covers the Irish EEZ at a horizontal resolution of 0.025 degrees. Winds from the ECMWF high-resolution forecast force the model. It uses wave-boundary data from the CMEMS 1/12-degree Global Ocean Waves Analysis and Forecast product.
Forecast outputs and data access
The model runs daily to produce a six-day forecast and a one-day hindcast. Outputs include significant wave height, mean wave period (Tm02), peak wave period, and mean wave direction.
Forecast data and a limited amount of hindcast data are available from the Marine Institute’s Thredds and ERDDAP servers. Hindcast data are archived and available on request.
Forecast use and limitations
The Irish Shelf model forecast is produced on a best-endeavours basis and should not be used for safety-critical applications.