The new Euskalmet coastal–maritime warning system

Abstract. This work presents the main characteristics of the Basque Meteorology Agency (Euskalmet) maritime–coastal risk warning system, with special emphasis on the latest updates, including a clear differentiation on specific warning messages addressing sea conditions for navigation purposes in the first 2 nautical miles, and expected coastal impacts. Some details of the warning bulletin for maritime and coastal risk situations are also presented, together with other communication products and strategies used in coastal and maritime severe episodes at the Basque coast.

Today, three different aspects are included in the coastal–maritime risk warning system in Basque Country, related to the main potential severe events that affecting coastal activities.

– "Galerna" risk relates to a sudden wind reversal that can severely affect coastal navigation and recreational activities.

– "Navigation" risk relates to severe sea state conditions for 0–2 miles, affecting different navigation activities.

– "Coastal impact" risk relates to adverse wave characteristics and tidal surges that induce flooding events and different impacts in littoral areas.