The Carolinas Coastal Ocean Observing and Prediction System (Caro-COOPS) Funded by the National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration A partnership among the University of South Carolina, North Carolina State University, & the University of North Carolina-Wilmington
What is Caro-COOPS? A system of coordinated coastal observations for user-driven research: An extensive array of instrumented moorings/stations A comprehensive data management system An advanced suite of integrated models
Primary measurements Instrumented moorings (10) Current velocity & direction, wave height/direction, temperature, salinity, pressure, chlorophyll Water level/meteorological stations (5) Supplement NOAA NWLON, NDBC, & C-MAN stations * 3 cross-isobath “picket fences” WLS, 10, 30, & 100+ m
Basic principles guiding the design of Caro-COOPS Integrated architecture (spans the atmosphere, ocean, & land) Flexible system for broad user base Integration with other regional & national observing systems Open access to long-term & real-time data User-driven products
A comprehensive data management system…
A comprehensive data management system…
Integrated models… Central Caro-COOPS Goal: To establish reliable forecasting tools for regional coastal ocean processes Initial Demonstration: Real-time forecasts and analyses of storm surge and flooding before & after coastal storms NOAA Photo Library
Hugo Storm Surge Model Simulation This screenshot shows flooding elevations overlaying orthographic images of the Charleston peninsula from the 4 th to 8 th hours after Hugo has struck land. NCSU Coastal and Estuarine Modeling and Environmental Prediction System (CEMEPS)
Partnerships: NOAA CSC USC NCSU UNC at Wilmington SCDNR National Water Level Observation Network National Data Buoy Center With developing partnerships involving: North Inlet-Winyah Bay NERR ACE Basin NERR Mote Marine Laboratory
Future Products Improved forecasts of natural hazards Alerts for anomalous conditions e.g. T/S extremes, hypoxia, HABs New information relevant to fisheries e.g. essential fish habitat conditions, dispersal of eggs & larvae New information on ocean/coastal conditions Testbeds for new technologies related to port operations and homeland security
Contact info Madilyn Fletcher, Director –(803) Braxton Davis –(803) Subscribe to our list for Caro-COOPS news and updates