Shallow low-pressure areas will affect the North Sea in the first few days, with high pressure taking over from Friday. Wind speeds will generally remain below most operational thresholds. Significant wave heights will largely consist of northerly swell early in the week, gradually decreasing later this week and into the weekend.
High pressure is positioned over the North Atlantic, while low pressure lingers over much of Europe. A shallow low-pressure area over the North Sea moves south on Tuesday and Wednesday. Another shallow low is expected north of Scotland on Thursday, also moving south. Behind this system, the Atlantic high will extend a ridge eastward over the North Sea. High pressure is expected to influence North Sea weather throughout the weekend.
Calm wind and waves
The above-described synoptic developments result in generally calm weather conditions over the North Sea for the coming week. Wind speeds may occasionally increase to 25 kts in the first few days near the low-pressure areas. From Friday onwards, winds will further decrease. However, in the southern North Sea, the northeasterly winds may strengthen over the weekend on the southern side of the high-pressure area.
Northerly swell will keep the significant wave height between 2.0 and 3.0 meters in the central and northern North Sea until Thursday, after which waves will gradually decrease. In the southern North Sea, significant wave heights will range between 1.0 and 2.0 meters throughout the week, with a potential for slightly higher values at times.
Good conditions for offshore operations
Overall, weather conditions will be generally favourable for offshore operations throughout the period. However, it is important to closely monitor daily weather forecasts, as low-pressure areas may deepen more than expected. Please review your forecast carefully and stay safe!
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