Exploring the Transformation of Weathernews

Weathernews was founded in 1986 by Hiroyoshi Ishibashi, inspired by a tragic maritime accident in 1970. While overseeing a cargo ship, Ishibashi witnessed the loss of 15 crew members when an explosive low-pressure system struck the port of Onahama, Fukushima. At that time, there was no way to predict such dangerous weather, nor was there weather information tailored to the needs of sailors. This event drove Ishibashi to enter the field of meteorology and create Weathernews, with a mission to protect the lives of sailors.

While our original focus was on safeguarding lives at sea, the challenges of climate change have broadened our mission. Today, Weathernews is not only dedicated to saving lives but also to protecting the planet. The increasing frequency of extreme weather and natural disasters has led us to redefine our role, expanding our expertise beyond weather forecasting to address the global need for climate adaptation and mitigation.

As of today, we provide weather impact forecasting and response strategies for multiple sectors, including maritime, air, and land-based transportation, energy, retail, and sports. Our expanded solutions include climate risk analysis, helping businesses assess and adapt to climate challenges while supporting efforts to reduce CO2 emissions. By integrating AI, data analytics, and advanced technologies, we continue to innovate in weather and climate solutions, ensuring that our core mission of saving lives endures while contributing to a sustainable future.

Maritime Focus

Our services are dedicated to supporting safe and efficient maritime operations. We provide around-the-clock support to oceangoing vessels worldwide, offering solutions such as Optimum Ship Routing (OSR) to enhance navigation safety and fuel efficiency. Additionally, we provide weather information to port authorities and operators to ensure the safety and effectiveness of port activities and maintenance support for offshore wind power facilities.

In response to the challenges posed by climate change, including the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, we have expanded our offerings to include climate risk analysis and adaptation services specifically tailored for the maritime sector. Through our extensive data and advanced technologies like AI and risk analysis, we help shipping companies mitigate risks, reduce CO2 emissions, and navigate changing environmental conditions.

Global Reach and Commitment

Weathernews operates 24/7 across 50 countries and regions, serving a broad spectrum of clients in the maritime industry. Our team of over 400 skilled meteorologists and voyage planners ensures constant communication with vessel masters and shore offices, providing personalized support that integrates human expertise with technological innovation.

Advancing Maritime Operations

Through innovative weather intelligence solutions, Weathernews enhances the safety and efficiency of maritime operations.
● Safety and Efficiency: Our core focus is on providing weather impact intelligence and response strategies to enhance the safety and efficiency of maritime operations.
● Climate Adaptation: We offer services that analyze climate change risks and assist in developing adaptation measures, helping the maritime industry become more resilient to environmental shifts.
● Technological Integration: By leveraging AI, probabilistic forecasting, and advanced visualisation techniques, we deliver pioneering solutions that address the complex needs of the modern maritime industry. Building on this foundation, last year we launched SeaNavigator, a comprehensive one-stop platform designed specifically for our shipping industry clients. SeaNavigator seamlessly integrates various aspects of maritime operations into one user-friendly interface, offering real-time data and insights that drive efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. Key features such as emissions management, sea margin calculators, customisable voyage priorities, and risk minimisation tools empower businesses to optimise performance and reach their full potential.

Our Vision

As the maritime industry faces unprecedented challenges—from regulatory changes to the impacts of climate change—Weathernews remains committed to our founding aspiration: protecting lives at sea and supporting our clients through reliable, innovative weather solutions. We continue to evolve by integrating advanced technology with our human-centered approach, aiming to build lasting trust and successful partnerships within the maritime community.