Similar to large parts of last week, calm and favourable conditions are expected over the North Sea. The week begins with high pressure positioned over the northern UK, gradually moving into the North Sea on Thursday. During the weekend, the high shifts further east, leading to increased significant wave heights and wind speed. As this is still far ahead, the uncertainty rises as well.
At the moment, high pressure is centred over the United Kingdom, extending a ridge across large parts of the North Sea. In the meantime, low pressure over the Baltic Sea moves further E, away from the forecast region. As a consequence, the lingering high over the UK is expected to dominate the North Sea for most of the week. This results in significant wave heights below 2 m for the entire area and wind speeds under 15 kts across the majority of the North Sea for the start of the week. Operational disruptions may occur due to fog and low stratus clouds, with an elevated risk for such conditions in the German Bight on Wednesday and Thursday.
Towards and during the weekend
By Thursday night, the high-pressure system moves directly over the North Sea, where it will remain in place through Saturday. This brings even calmer conditions, with wave heights projected to stay below 1 m and wind speeds not exceeding 10 kts throughout the region.
During the weekend, the high continues its eastward movement by reaching the Baltic Sea, while remaining a ridge over the North Sea at first. This ridge will slowly lose its grip over the area from Sunday onwards, as low pressure enters the Norwegian Sea, moving into Scandinavia on Monday. At the same time, a second low develops over France. An associated trough from the northern low pressure system stretches south over the North Sea by then, increasing wind speeds and wave heights. Significant wave heights are expected to reach 2 to 3 m for the northern part of the North Sea. Due to the longer forecast range, the confidence level for these conditions decreases.
In summary, a calm week is expected at the North Sea with favourable conditions for offshore operations. To stay updated on the latest developments, we recommend consulting the most recent weather reports.
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