New tool forecasts high sea levels and potential flooding on Kwajalein Atoll

Image courtesy of PacIOOS.

A new Pacific Islands Ocean Observing System (PacIOOS) tool is now available that forecasts the potential occurrence of high sea levels and wave inundation for the most populated segments of Kwajalein Atoll. The forecast is updated hourly and accessible to the public on the PacIOOS website.

“Due to the low elevation of the Marshall Islands, communities are vulnerable to flooding and wave inundation. Storm events, high waves, extreme tides, or a combination of these factors can threaten public health and safety,” said Doug Luther, PacIOOS co-investigator and professor of Oceanography. “The forecast will increase community resilience and enhance preparedness by providing decision-makers, agency representatives, and community members with some time to plan in advance of potential flooding events.”

Read more about it in the UH System News.