What is the main purpose of weather buoys?

The main purpose of weather buoys is to provide real-time data on wind, wave, and weather conditions. These buoys are equipped with various instruments that measure parameters such as wind speed and direction, wave height, atmospheric pressure, and sometimes water temperature. This data is crucial for maritime activities, including sailing, as it helps sailors make informed decisions based on current weather and sea state conditions. The information collected by weather buoys is transmitted to meteorological agencies and can be accessed by mariners to enhance safety and optimize navigation routes.

While buoys may play other roles such as providing temperature readings or marking navigational routes, their primary function as a weather monitoring tool makes them indispensable in the context of maritime weather forecasting and ensuring the safety of vessels at sea.