In 2018, a task force of government experts defined the phrase "extreme maritime weather" as "wind and wave conditions that pose a threat to life and property to all vessels." Such conditions do impact vessels, crews, cargoes, and maritime operations, extreme maritime weather also threatens coastlines and communities as well.

Understanding and predicting extreme maritime conditions requires a broad spectrum of atmospheric and ocean observations including in situ and remotely sensed data. Prediction systems must be able to assimilate such observations and yield forecast parameters at temporal and horizontal resolutions that include the complex interactions between the atmosphere and ocean. The resulting metocean services, whether public or private, must meet the need to ensure informed decision making.

This session is intended to cast a wide net with a common focus on extreme maritime weather events impacting ocean and coastal areas with an earth system perspective of observations, prediction systems, science gaps, services, and impacts. A key goal of this Symposium and session is to enhance a metocean focus within the AMS community with participation from the private, public, academic, and underserved communities.