On this page
Offshore ocean observing infrastructure
We monitor offshore weather and ocean conditions through the Irish Marine Data Buoy Observation Network (IMDBON). Its five offshore buoys provide continuous measurements for scientific and operational use.
- wind speed and direction
- atmospheric pressure
- air temperature and humidity
- sea surface temperature
- wave height and wave period
Research and forecasting applications
You can use IMDBON data to support scientific research and operational forecasting.
- numerical weather prediction
- oceanographic and climate research
- air–sea interaction studies
- long-term monitoring of Essential Climate Variables
Data transmission and forecasting systems
- Met Éireann forecasting systems
- the World Meteorological Organization network
- European forecasting systems via EUMETNET
Strategic Atlantic observations
- early detection of incoming Atlantic weather systems
- critical upstream data for European forecasting
- long-term datasets for climate and ocean variability research
Using IMDBON data
IMDBON connects offshore observations with practical information about changing conditions and their coastal effects.
See what’s happening at sea
Check offshore wave height and wind speed and direction to track changing conditions and understand how offshore weather affects the coast.
Track weather systems offshore
Follow increasing wave heights, pressure changes, and other offshore conditions as Atlantic weather systems develop before reaching Ireland.
Support clear public communication
Use measured conditions to add evidence to marine and weather stories, explain offshore conditions, and connect ocean data with real-world impacts.
Access the data
Move from high-level insights to detailed scientific datasets, depending on your needs.
Ocean observations
IMDBON forms part of Ireland’s wider ocean observation system. It works alongside coastal monitoring networks to build a more complete picture of changing sea conditions.
Get involved or learn more
Contact the team if you are interested in accessing infrastructure or exploring collaboration opportunities.