Coupled Meteo–Hydrodynamic Approach in Semi-Enclosed Basins and Sensitivity Assessment of Wind-Driven Current

Abstract

A coupled numerical approach that combines the WRF model and the Mike 3 (DHI) hydrodynamic model was developed and applied in two semi-enclosed basins in the Ionian Sea (Italy) to assess the wind-driven current. To gain a better understanding of how the sea current field can vary depending on meteorological data forcing, three different scenario were set up. The sensitivity of the sea current pattern was investigated as a function of the type of meteorological forcing and appreciating the differences in the results. The aims of this study are threefold. Firstly, we wish to define an ad hoc procedure to join the model-computed meteorological parameters in the hydrodynamic model. Secondly, we will investigate the feedback from the Mar Piccolo and Mar Grande basins in the Ionian Sea using fully coupled simulations and an uncoupled system where the atmospheric parameters are derived from a ground station. Finally, we will evaluate the results achieved by applying two scenarios of typical meteorological conditions to the study site. The model results highlighted the variability of sea currents depending on meteorological forcing.