NOAA produced a range of detailed maps used to forecast the Deepwater Horizon spill’s movement and to summarize data collected in the field.
GeoPlatform
GeoPlatform.gov/gulfresponse is an online tool, launched in June 2010, which provides near real-time information about the Deepwater Horizon response effort. The site offers a “one-stop shop” for spill response information, integrating data on fishery closure areas, wildlife information, locations of oiled shoreline reported by Shoreline Cleanup and Assessment Teams (SCAT) and positions of deployed research ships into one customizable interactive map.
To use GeoPlatform, users select the information they want to view from a list. As each type of information is selected, it’s added as a “layer” to create the overall map. Users can zoom in for a closer look at a specific location or navigate across the map to see information for a different area of the Gulf.
Oil Trajectory Maps
NOAA produced cumulative oil trajectory maps early in the Deepwater Horizon spill response. They showed on a single map the surface location of spilled oil for several consecutive days, as well as a forecast for the following day.
Fisheries Closure Maps
NOAA informed commercial and recreational fishermen of closures and reopenings of Federal waters in the Gulf as part of its commitment to ensuring the safety of Gulf seafood.
Dissolved Oxygen Maps
NOAA prepared maps of dissolved oxygen levels as part of a comprehensive monitoring effort. Low dissolved oxygen levels might indicate the presence of microbes that break down oil, and by extension, the potential presence of oil itself.
Nautical Chart Maps
NOAA provided commercial and recreational mariners with nautical chart updates to allow safe and efficient navigation to and from port.