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Supplementing Coastal Flood Forecasting in Massachusetts

By pulling Hohonu’s harbor and island sensors into NWS workflows, forecasters gained critical coverage where federal gauges were sparse, improving flood forecasts and community messaging.

“Additional tide and flood-depth observations help us see the nuances storm models can miss. Especially along the south coast and islands.”​

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- NWS Forecaster

The Story

Boston’s office is responsible for dozens of flood-prone harbors and inlets. During major winter storms in 2022, 2023, and 2024, forecasters used Hohonu sites in Hyannis and Edgartown to validate storm surge guidance, refine thresholds, and strengthen impact-based messaging.

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Sparse sensor coverage can impact forecasters' ability to assess site-specific flooding. With additional coverage, forecasters have more confidence in their warnings and can help emergency managers prepare earlier.

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Road Flooding in Duxbury on January 13, 2024 (credit: WCVB 5 ABC)

Problem

  • Sparse gauge coverage can leave blind spots along the south coast and islands

  • Surge guidance can sometimes over- or under-estimated site impacts

  • Emergency managers need clearer impact-based thresholds

Stakeholders

  • NWS Boston: rely on real-time data in Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS)

  • Emergency Managers (state & local): need clear impact thresholds for closures

  • Residents & Drivers: benefit from accurate flood messaging and safer roads

Outcomes

  • Validated thresholds at key harbors and islands

  • Improved consistency in flood briefings and public messaging

  • Strengthened collaboration with emergency management partners

Solution

  • Hohonu sensors deployed in harbors and coastal towns

  • API integration with NWS workflows for real-time ingestion

  • Impact-based flood matrices created and refined after storm events

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