The High-Frequency Coastal Radar Network Operated by Puertos del Estado (Spain): Roadmap to a Fully Operational Implementation

Abstract

In this paper, a detailed description of the roadmap to transform four individual CODAR SeaSonde high-frequency (HF) radars into an integrated HF radar network operated by Puertos del Estado (Madrid, Spain) is provided. To assess the maturation process into a fully operational status, the system must evolve via an implementation of phased approaches, including: homogenization of maintenance practices, quality control checks in real time, standardization of data access, and development of customized visualization tools. Additionally, continuous validation works with independent in situ sensors are required to provide upper bounds on both radial and total radar current measurement accuracies. Consistent correlation coefficients and uncertainty values emerge in the range of 0.31–0.81 and 8–22 cm/s, respectively, for the remotely estimated velocities. Complementarily, a dedicated online website has been developed to operationally monitor radar system health in real time. This automated quality control application analyzes a number of diagnose parameters to obtain estimates of their standard ranges and evaluate radar site performance according to them. Abrupt changes, gradual degradation, and/or failure problems can be easily detected, triggering alerts for troubleshooting. Once a good performance of HF radar systems is ensured, 2-D surface current maps are used for a broad range of practical applications, i.e., search-and-rescue operations, oil spill response, or the rigorous skill assessment of an operational ocean forecasting system such as Iberia–Biscay–Ireland (IBI), implemented within the frame of the Copernicus Marine Environment Monitoring Service.