“The New Weather Character of the Mediterranean Sea,” an event dedicated to the impact of severe weather phenomena on maritime operations, was recently hosted by Navimeteo and Vaisala Xweather.

Professionals from the shipping, cruise, yachting, meteorological and port operations sectors gathered for the event held on May 14, live at the Grand Hotel Torre Fara in Chiavari, Italy, and via live streaming. 

They exchanged operational perspectives on the growing challenges related to maritime safety and navigation as weather patterns are becoming increasingly complex across the Mediterranean, according to a statement. 

“When I first started navigating at sea more than thirty years ago, I understood how closely weather, technology and safety are connected in maritime operations. Seeing today an event where these topics come together around the same table, confirms that the direction we believed in from the beginning was the right one,” said Gianfranco Meggiorin, found and operational coordinator at Navimeteo. 

“Over time, we have built strong relationships with partners who share the same operational approach and long-term vision. I would especially like to thank Vaisala and all the business partners who continue to be part of this journey with us.” 

The event was organized in cooperation with the Fratelli Cosulich Group, which acquired a 51 percent stake in Navimeteo at the start of 2026. 

The topics included how weather forecasting, nowcasting and advanced monitoring technologies are reshaping operational decision-making at sea. 

Phenomena such as frequent severe thunderstorms, violent wind gusts and rapidly developing convective systems that are affecting navigation, port maneuvers and offshore operations were given particular attention. 

“The Mediterranean is one of the world’s most demanding maritime environments, and addressing its weather challenges requires our expertise and the operational partnership we have built with Navimeteo,” noted Samuli Hänninen, executive vice president at Vaisala Xweather. 

“We look forward to continuing to develop solutions together that make maritime navigation safer and more resilient across the region.”  

The full recording of the event is available on YouTube.