Oceanographic system installed in Mobile

Oceanographic system installed in Mobile The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said today the Port of Mobile has become the 14th location in the country to install a Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System (PORTS).
   PORTS systems are beefed-up versions of the tidal gauge systems that ports have traditionally had. They provide not only tide heights, but a wide spectrum of accurate oceanographic and meteorological data to mariners on a real time basis. They can reduce the risk of vessel groundings and increase the amount of cargo moved through a port.
   The Mobile system will become operational on Dec. 3.
   The PORTS systems provide information about water levels, currents, salinity, wind and bridge clearance.
   Knowledge of environmental conditions can reduce the risk of vessel groundings and increase the amount of cargo moved through a waterway by enabling mariners to safely utilize every inch of dredged channel depth.
   The system “allows for the optimization of cargo carriage and improves safety,” said James K. Lyons, director and chief executive officer of the Port of Mobile, which is sponsoring the system.
   PORTS data for installations around the country can be accessed over the Internet at: www.tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/ports.