We've recently started running forecasts based on the SWS-CM1, SWS-RM1, NAM and COAMPS models, which are all non-hydrostatic mesoscale models that produce higher resolution wind forecasts than the GFS model we use.

The SWS-CM1, SWS-RM1, NAM and COAMPS models all have much higher resolution than the GFS model, which is run on a 55 km (0.5 degree) grid.

This higher resolution should provide more accurate wind forecasts, especially in areas where the local terrain/topography is a big influence on the wind speed and direction. Examples of such areas include the Strait of Gibraltar and the Strait of Bonifacio.

Please keep in mind that no single weather model is going to always be better than the others, so it's best to have a look at both the GFS and the higher resolution (SWS-CM1, SWS-RM1, COAMPS or NAM) forecasts to get a better idea of what to expect. It's always good to have a second opinion.

Also, the COAMPS model only provides forecast output to 72 hours (3 days), the NAM model provides forecast output to 84 hours (3.5 days), the SWS models provide forecast output to 120 hours (5 days), as opposed to 180 hours (7.5 days) for the GFS model.

 SWS models

The SWS-CM1 and SWS-RM1 are advanced weather models developed and run by Sailing Weather Service, one of the world's most respected weather routing and consulting companies. The SWS-CM1 is a coastal model run on a 0.1 degree (~10km) grid, while the SWS-RM1 is a regional model run on a 0.25 degree (~25km) grid.

SWS-CM1 and SWS-RM1 wind forecasts are currently only available for the Western European and Mediterranean Sea regions and sub-regions. 

To view these forecasts, click on the "SWS" tab located directly above the wind forecast charts.

 NAM model

The NAM (North American Mesoscale) model, which is run on a 12 km (~0.12 degree) grid, is an NOAA/NCEP implementation of the WRF-NMM model.

NAM wind forecasts are only available for the North American regions and sub-regions. 

To view these forecasts, click on the "NAM" tab located directly above the wind forecast charts.

 COAMPS model

The COAMPS (Coupled Ocean / Atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System), which is run on a 18 km (~0.2 degree) grid, is produced at the Marine Meteorology Division of the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL).

COAMPS wind forecasts are only available for the Western European and Mediterranean Sea regions and sub-regions. 

To view these forecasts, click on the "COAMPS" tab located directly above the wind forecast charts.