What is the minimum change in barometric pressure that the POOW should report to the OOD during a 1-hour period?

The minimum change in barometric pressure that the Petty Officer of the Watch (POOW) should report to the Officer of the Deck (OOD) during a one-hour period is 0.04 inches. This benchmark is crucial for maintaining situational awareness regarding changes in weather patterns and operational safety at sea.

Barometric pressure is a key indicator of weather conditions, and even small changes can signal the onset of weather fronts that could impact navigation and safety. By reporting a change of 0.04 inches or more, the POOW ensures that the OOD is kept informed of significant atmospheric shifts, which may require adjustments to sailing plans or preparations for potential rougher conditions.

The threshold of 0.04 inches is established based on standard practices in maritime operations. Reporting changes below this level may not effectively convey relevant shifts in weather patterns or might not have a noticeable impact on the vessel's operations. This level of precision helps maintain an informed and ready crew while ensuring that the command staff can make timely decisions based on the latest atmospheric data.