Author(s)

N. Volakos, L.J. Scott & R.W. Barber

Abstract

This paper describes a two-dimensional depth-averaged numerical model for simulating wind-induced hydrodynamic circulation patterns in shallow coastal seas. The model is based upon an explicit finite-difference solution of the shallow water equations using a generalised non-orthogonal boundary-fitted coordinate system. The curvilinear approach provides an accurate and versatile method of representing the curved boundaries of natural flow regions without having to implement the usual Cartesian finite-difference approximation of following the coastal perimeter using a 'staircase' of grid points. The capabilities of the numerical model are demonstrated by simulat

Keywords