A probabilistic method for constructing wave time-series at inshore locations using model scenarios

Joseph W. Long; Nathaniel G. Plant; P. Soupy Dalyander; David M. Thompson

doi:10.1016/j.coastaleng.2014.03.008

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A probabilistic method for constructing wave time-series at inshore locations using model scenarios

Joseph W. Long·Nathaniel G. Plant·P. Soupy Dalyander·David M. Thompson

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Abstract

Continuous time-series of wave characteristics (height, period, and direction) are constructed using a base set of model scenarios and simple probabilistic methods. This approach utilizes an archive of computationally intensive, highly spatially resolved numerical wave model output to develop time-series of historical or future wave conditions without performing additional, continuous numerical simulations. The archive of model output contains wave simulations from a set of model scenarios derived from an offshore wave climatology. Time-series of wave height, period, direction, and associated uncertainties are constructed at locations included in the numerical model domain. The confidence limits are derived using statistical variability of oceanographic parameters contained in the wave model scenarios. The method was applied to a region in the northern Gulf of Mexico and assessed using wave observations at 12 m and 30 m water depths. Prediction skill for significant wave height is 0.58 and 0.67 at the 12 m and 30 m locations, respectively, with similar performance for wave period and direction. The skill of this simplified, probabilistic time-series construction method is comparable to existing large-scale, high-fidelity operational wave models but provides higher spatial resolution output at low computational expense. The constructed time-series can be developed to support a variety of applications including climate studies and other situations where a comprehensive survey of wave impacts on the coastal area is of interest.

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Coastal Engineering Article

Source-reported bounding extent: 29° to 31° latitude; -89° to -85° longitude. This indicates report coverage, not an exact sampling location. View area on OpenStreetMap.

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BibTeX RIS

Joseph W. Long, Nathaniel G. Plant, P. Soupy Dalyander, David M. Thompson. 2014. A probabilistic method for constructing wave time-series at inshore locations using model scenarios. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coastaleng.2014.03.008

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