An ocean wind-wave climatology for the Southern Brazilian Shelf. Part I: Problem presentation and model validation

Abstract

Geomorphological features and sparse visual wave measurements, presented in previous works, point out to the possible existence of alongshore wave energy gradients over the Southern Brazilian Shelf (SBS). After describing the two numerical models utilized and the model grids and settings, the present study evaluated the proposed validation of the basin-scale results against orbital altimetry and the regional-scale results against the two available wave-buoy data, discussing the extent to which the model reproduced local reality. The basin-scale model results of significant wave height could be considered as in good agreement with observations, presenting remarkable similarities with observed altimetry. Regarding the regional-scale modeling, both significant wave height and peak wave periods were considered as in good agreement with observations. The peak wave directions, however, were classified as in poor agreement, once the ESE waves were erroneously reproduced as E. Increased spatial resolution certainly played a role, but it was the lowering of bottom friction that represented the major improvement in the coastal grid simulations.