Wave and wind conditions in the Red Sea: A numerical study using a third generation wave model

Abstract

In order to understand how waves behave and how other parameters can interact between ocean and atmosphere we can use a numerical model. For the Red Sea basin wave measurements are absent and due to that a WAM wave model is used to study the wave climate. The aim of this thesis is to run a wave model for the Red Sea area to begin a local forecast service and then estimate climatology of wave height, needed in almost all coastal engineering studies. As well as to give engineers a description of ocean surface waves and forces, this knowledge about Red Sea wave conditions can help the local shermen that use small vessels. The third generation wave model WAM is used to hindcast the wave condition in the Red Sea for the year 2007. The WAM model is forced using wind data obtained from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF).