Spatial Variations of the Wave, Stress and Wind Fields in the Shoaling Zone
Abstract
We have used fast response atmospheric measurements from a small low-flying research aircraft, a tower at the end of a pier and offshore buoys to study air-sea interaction in the coastal zone. The research aircraft also measures the wave field using three downward pointing lasers. Our analysis of this data indicates that the influence of shoaling waves is significant but less important than originally thought. Nonetheless, computer models of air-sea interaction fail to properly account for the important influence of the surface wave state. Atmospheric flow of warm air over a colder sea surface can lead to complete collapse of the atmospheric turbulence and sea state. This collapse is not presently simulated in boundary layer models.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 17, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA395135
Entities
People
- Larry J. Mahrt
Organizations
- Oregon State University