Met Office

The United Kingdom’s national meteorological service, responsible for providing weather and climate-related services, including marine forecasts.

The Met Office, short for the Meteorological Office, is the UK’s official authority for weather and climate science. It plays a vital role in marine operations by issuing forecasts, warnings, and real-time data for coastal and offshore waters. Mariners rely on the Met Office for accurate and timely information regarding wind speed and direction, sea state, visibility, pressure systems, and potential hazards such as gales or fog. These forecasts are essential for voyage planning, ensuring safety at sea, and supporting commercial and recreational marine activities. The Met Office operates a network of observation stations, weather buoys, and satellite systems, and collaborates with international meteorological organisations to provide comprehensive coverage. Its marine forecasts are disseminated through various channels including radio broadcasts, NAVTEX, websites, and mobile applications, making them accessible to vessels of all sizes. The Met Office also contributes to the Shipping Forecast, a long-standing and trusted source of marine weather information for UK waters.