Comparative analysis of significant wave height between satellite altimetry data and SWAN model simulations in the Black Sea basin

Abstract

Significant wave height (Hs) data are essential in different scientific studies regarding coastal and marine environments, coastal management, various economic activities nearshore and offshore, as well as in the use of marine renewable energy, oil and gas offshore platform operation and security, safety of personnel and equipment. The current paper presents an analysis of the significant wave height parameter for the particular case of the Black Sea basin. In order to achieve this analysis, satellite altimetry measurements from five different satellites taken from the IMOS (Integrated Marine Observing System) database were used and compared with the results of SWAN model simulations in order to assess the accuracy of simulated Hs values. The analysis was performed on data available for a period of 3 years, from 2018 to 2020. The comparison of the simulated significant wave height with data measured by altimetry satellites showed a good correlation of 0.8. The obtained results bring a contribution with regards to a better insight and knowledge into the characteristics of wind waves in the Black Sea.