More weather observations for Moreton Bay's boaties

21/04/2021

One of Queensland's most important waterways has become safer, thanks to a collaboration between the Bureau of Meteorology and Maritime Safety Queensland that is improving wind monitoring in Moreton Bay.

The new Hope Banks anemometer – a device which measures wind speed and direction – was installed late last week. It will provide information on winds in the eastern Bay, closing a longstanding gap in information between the existing Banana Bank and Inner Beacon weather stations.

It is one of two new observing systems installed in Moreton Bay in recent months, after the Bureau replaced a wind monitor in the Spitfire Channel with a brand-new unit on the North West 10 beacon in the far north of the Bay.

The Bureau's Group Executive, Community Services Piero Chessa said the installation of these vital pieces of meteorological hardware was the result of the Bureau responding to feedback from the local community.

"These observations will provide real-time wind readings including information on wind gusts. They will also enable meteorologists to better monitor the area, and assist when monitoring marine wind warnings and forecasts, which are critical for people who use the bay and their safety," he said.

"As well as recreational boaters and anglers, Moreton Bay is busy with barges, ferries and water-taxi services, all of which will benefit from more comprehensive weather services."

To access the wind data on the Bureau's website here

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