Toward a Better Understanding of Ocean-Wave-Typhoon Interactions in the Western Pacific Ocean
Abstract
This project investigates the interplay among typhoon-strength winds, ocean surface waves, and upper ocean circulation during and after typhoon passages over the western Pacific Ocean and around the island of Taiwan. We will use three numerical models and calibrate them against continuous measurements of ocean currents, temperature, wave heights, and turbulence intensities from several open ocean moorings in the western Pacific. Through these calibrations, we will learn how to better represent winds, ocean currents, and waves under typhoon-strength wind conditions in the western Pacific Ocean. For marine atmospheres, we will use the Navy's operational West Pacific atmospheric model (COAMPS) and JPL wind to drive ocean waves and upper ocean circulation. For ocean waves, we will use SWAN to generate them and calibrate simulated results against observed wave heights from the moorings. For ocean circulation, we invoke the Naval Research Laboratory's Ocean Nowcast/Forecast System to simulate upper-ocean response. The resolutions of these models are sufficiently high. Through calibration and analysis of the three models and observations, we intend to identify crucial oceanic and wave processes that regulate a typhoon's strength and path.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA527298
Entities
People
- Shenn-yu Chao
Organizations
- University of Maryland