Modeling the circulation of the Gulf of Tonkin and its interaction with the Vietnamese East Sea
Abstract
"This project builds upon previous experience using a 7-km resolution South China Sea model based on the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS). In this second phase of the project, we will develop a higher resolution model (~2 km) that telescopes into the eastern Vietnamese coast in order to explore the interconnectedness of the coastal dynamics in the Gulf of Tonkin (GT)with seasonal and mesoscale variability in the Vietnamese East Sea (VES). The modeling system will include assimilation of observations from different platforms, notably those provided by HF radars, gliders, and other in-situ observations obtained from the collaborative work with our USA and Vietnam partners. Processes of scientific interest include: A robust characterization of the dynamics of the Red river plume and its associated coastal jet (with a typical width of ~30 km), pathways and dispersion properties of the GT circulation and the east Vietnamese coast to the south, the two-way interaction of the GT with the VES western boundary current, mixed layer variability, and vertical mixing and stratification. A data assimilative model of the region will represent mean, seasonal, and mesoscale variability, with an emphasis on contrasting conditions during the different phases of the monsoon but including the capability to represent typhoon forcing. We will therefore explore coupling ROMS with the Weather Research andForecasting (WRF) model to explore the usefulness of a WRF-ROMS coupled system to understand fundamental scientific questions related to ocean state estimation for studies of typhoon impacts and forecasting. The modeling system we develop using ROMS will be suited to subsequent implementation as an integrated predictive model for regional oceanographic studies. The project will also provide for instructing Vietnamese researchers and students onusing, reconfiguring and enhancing ROMS for future studies. The proposed research will fostercollaboration with Vietnamese Scientists that have expressed desire to participate in some of thetasks proposed here, and with other groups working in the area such as the France/VietnamLOTUS program."
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 31, 2020
- Source ID
- N000142012740
Entities
People
- Javier Zavala Garay
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Rutgers University
- United States Navy