The 6-meter NOMAD is an aluminum-hulled, boat-shaped buoy which provides relatively high cost effectiveness and excellent long-term survivability in severe seas. These buoys are highly directional and have a quick rotational response.

The list of measurements provided by buoys is rather extensive. Here’s a guide to the various measurements published by NDBC: Wind Direction (WDIR) Wind direction (the direction the wind is coming from in degrees clockwise from true N) during the same period used for WSPD. Wind Speed (WSPD) Wind speed (m/s) averaged over an eight-minute [...]