Integrated modelling of sea-state forecasts for safe navigation and operational management in ports: Application in the Mediterranean Sea

Abstract

In this paper we present recent evolvements of three robust numerical models for the simulation of the evolution of wave fields and hydrodynamic circulation in gulfs and coastal areas with large harbours and significant urban port facilities. The models are integrated into a single software suite for the development of a decision support tool to provide reliable forecasts of sea states prevailing at selected important ports worldwide. The application of the integrated modelling platform is designed to support approaching procedures of vessels to ports and it is based on co-operating, high-resolution, hydrodynamic (ocean and wave) models that derive input data and boundary conditions from global scale or regional, open sea and weather forecasts. The implementation of short-term forecasts for sea conditions includes the development, validation, coupling, and operational application of: i) the High Resolution Storm Surge (HiReSS) model for sea level variations; ii) the 3rd generation spectral wave model called TELEMAC-based Operational Model Addressing Wave Action Computation (TOMAWAC) for irregular wave propagation in offshore and coastal areas; and iii) a high resolution phase-resolving wave model (WAVE-L) for port basins, based on the hyperbolic mild-slope equations. This innovative product, designed for port-related end-users, will improve the navigation safety at ports, optimize the berth occupancy, support the port pilotage operations, mooring and towage procedures, and may facilitate the port layout upgrade or design. Hereby, pilot forecast implementations are presented concerning the Mediterranean Sea and eight selected harbours in it.