MARACOOS in North Carolina
Timely ocean and coastal data allows North Carolina to plan for and respond to hazards, protect maritime commerce, safeguard coastal communities, and strengthen resilience along its dynamic shoreline. From hurricanes and coastal flooding to shifting inlets and busy ports, accurate and real-time information is essential for protecting lives, supporting economic activity, and sustaining the state’s vital coastal resources.
Expanding Coastal Monitoring
There are numerous webcameras in North Carolina that are part of the national network, WebCOOS. The images collected from these webcameras enhance situational awareness and support alerts for coastal hazards, contributing to public safety and better-informed decision-making.
Strengthening Maritime Safety
MARACOOS operates four high-frequency (HF) radar stations in North Carolina, providing real-time data on surface currents. This information is critical for U.S. Coast Guard search and rescue efforts, reducing search areas by two-thirds, saving lives, protecting property, and cutting operational costs.
