A two‐dimensional tidal model for the Mediterranean Sea

Abstract

The tidal propagation in the Mediterranean Sea is described through a high‐resolution, two‐dimensional hydrodynamic model forced by the equilibrium tide and the incoming tide at the Strait of Gibraltar. The four most significant constituents, M2, S2, K1, and O1, are included in the model. Good agreement with a set of 63 coastal gauges is achieved. The significance of the equilibrium tide and the forcing at the open boundary is investigated. The incoming wave from the Strait of Gibraltar is important in tuning the tides in the whole of the Mediterranean. For the north Aegean Sea the solution without the forcing at Gibraltar results in a doubling of the amplitudes of the semidiurnal tides. The estimated energy dissipation due to bottom friction is 8.8×108 W. The major area of dissipation is the Gulf of Gabes. Energy fluxes through the major straits are calculated.