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Improving Search and Rescue
Photo credit - USGS
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A new set of
ocean observing data that enhances the ability to track probable paths
of victims and drifting survivor craft should improve search and rescue
efforts along the U.S. coast. The data comes from the Integrated
Ocean Observing System (IOOS®), part of a joint effort among
NOAA, the Mid-Atlantic
Coastal Ocean Observing Regional Association, the U.S.
Coast Guard, and the Department of Homeland Security.
The new data sets include surface current maps from high frequency radar systems.
The technology measures speed and direction of ocean surface currents in near
real time, which the Coast Guard can then use to guide its search and rescue
operations with greater accuracy. The maps can also be used to support other
scientific work, such as oil spill response, harmful algal bloom monitoring,
and water quality assessments.
“IOOS is known for providing information about tracking, managing and adapting
to changes in the marine environment. Using it operationally for search and rescue
is an important step,” said Zdenka Willis, NOAA IOOS program director. "This
is about saving lives."
The data will feed into Coast Guard servers to improve environmental observations
for the agency’s operational Search and Rescue Optimal Planning System.
A short term predictive system that allows 24-hour forecasts for sea surface
currents based on the most recent ocean observations will also be available in
the Mid-Atlantic region.
“The Coast Guard is continuously striving to enhance its Search and Rescue
capabilities by obtaining the latest operational environmental products that
NOAA has to offer. Better data means search efforts can be focused on smaller
areas, saving more lives by allowing us to locate and assist distressed persons
more quickly,” said Jack Frost USCG's Program Manager for Search and Rescue
Optimal Planning System (SAROPS).
“From the recreational fisherman to the family swimming at the beach, people
in the Mid-Atlantic region will enjoy a safer life as a direct benefit of applying
joint technology and understanding to meet community needs,” said Judith
Krauthamer, executive director of the Mid-Atlantic Coastal Ocean Observing Regional
Association.
NOAA understands and predicts changes in the Earth’s environment, from
the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and conserves and manages
our coastal and marine resources.
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