The Lake Michigan Buoy Grand Haven, also known as Station 45011, is a critical data collection point for those who love to explore the Great Lakes. This 3-meter discus buoy, owned and maintained by the National Data Buoy Center, provides a wealth of information that is invaluable to mariners, beachgoers, and weather enthusiasts alike.
Data Collected by the Grand Haven Buoy
The Grand Haven buoy collects a wide range of data that is essential for understanding the conditions on Lake Michigan. This includes:
| Data Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Water Temperature | Measurements up to 70 feet deep |
| Wind Speed | Current wind speed and gusts |
| Wave Height | Significant wave height and dominant wave period |
| Humidity | Atmospheric humidity |
| Atmospheric Pressure | Current air pressure |
| Air Temperature | Air temperature at the buoy location |
| Water Temperature | Water temperature at various depths |
| Dew Point | Dew point temperature |
| Wind Direction | Wind direction in degrees true |
This comprehensive data set allows users to make informed decisions about their activities on the lake, whether they are planning a sailing trip, a day at the beach, or simply monitoring the weather.
Current Conditions at the Grand Haven Buoy
As of the latest update on August 9, 2024, the wind speed at the Grand Haven buoy is 17 knots (approximately 20 mph) from the northwest, with wave heights of 4 feet at 5 seconds. This information is crucial for mariners, as it allows them to plan their routes and adjust their sails accordingly.
Data Update Frequency
The data from the Grand Haven buoy is updated regularly, with the National Data Buoy Center providing real-time data that is typically updated every 10 minutes. This ensures that users have access to the most current information, allowing them to make informed decisions about their activities on the lake.
Additional Resources
For those who want to stay up-to-date on the conditions at the Grand Haven buoy, there are several resources available:
- Visit Grand Haven: This website provides a beach report with local wind, water, wave, and current conditions, making it a valuable resource for beachgoers.
- Buoyweather: This website offers detailed marine forecasts, including wind, swell, and tide forecasts for any GPS point, making it a useful tool for mariners and water enthusiasts.
- National Data Buoy Center: The official website of the National Data Buoy Center provides real-time and historical data for the Grand Haven buoy, as well as other buoys in the region.
By utilizing these resources, users can stay informed about the conditions on Lake Michigan and plan their activities accordingly.
Conclusion
The Lake Michigan Buoy Grand Haven is a vital data source for those who love to explore the Great Lakes. With its comprehensive data collection and regular updates, this buoy provides essential information that helps mariners, beachgoers, and weather enthusiasts make informed decisions about their activities on the lake. Whether you’re planning a sailing trip, a day at the beach, or simply monitoring the weather, the Grand Haven buoy is a valuable resource that should not be overlooked.
References
- https://visitgrandhaven.com/things/beaches/beach-report/
- https://www.buoyweather.com/forecast/marine-weather/spot/Grand%2BHaven/%4042.959,-86.581
- https://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/station_page.php?station=45011
- https://marine.weather.gov/MapClick.php?site=Grr&map.x=59&map.y=162
- https://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/station_page.php?station=45168