Simulation of Three-Dimensional Hydrodynamics in Long Island Sound: Annual Timescales

by Richard A. Schmalz, Jr., Natl Oceanic and Atmospheric, Administration, Rockville, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Estuarine and Coastal Modeling

Abstract:

The Mellor-Blumberg three-dimensional hydrodynamic model in application to Long Island Sound includes time varying water level residual, sea surface temperature, river inflow, and wind forcings. Prior to long term studies, simulated astronomic tides over the month of September 1988 are compared with reconstructed water levels at 15 locations. Root mean square (RMS) differences between model and reconstructed levels are order 10 cm. Simulated tidal currents are compared with reconstructed currents at 12 stations with RMS differences on the order of 20% of reconstructed range. The eighteen month period April 1988 - Sept 1989 is selected for long term simulation studies based upon available extensive CTD measurements. Simulated salinity and temperature vertical profiles agree in shape with measured CTD profiles over the entire Sound and demonstrate the ability of the model to develop, maintain, and erode observed thermocline and halocline structures. Simulated East River nontidal fluxes are in general agreement with preliminary analyses in magnitude and direction. Simulated Lagrangian residual circulation and salinity fields exhibit known phenomenological features. In conclusion, additional simulation plans and model enhancements are outlined.

Subject Headings: Three-dimensional models | Temperature measurement | Rivers and streams | Tides | Simulation models | Hydrodynamics | Salinity | United States | Connecticut | New York

Services: Buy this book/Buy this article

 

Return to search