Simulations of the turbulence and dispersion processes in a coastal region

Turbulence and associated dispersion processes in the Adriatic coast region have been investigated using a mesoscale atmospheric model (MEMO6) and a newly developed Lagrangian Random Particle Dispersion Model. Two cases were examined: (a) land and sea breezes; and (b) bora wind effects on the transport and dispersion of atmospheric pollutants. Preliminary modeling results demonstrate the impact of coastal topography on the development of the inhomogeneous land and sea breezes and possibility of the recirculation of the atmospheric pollutants in Kvarner Bay. Thus, during the daytime pollutants travel away from the coast towards the open sea (hence lowering the concentrations), while during the nighttime the direction of particle motion reverses and enhances the concentrations of pollutants over the land. The simulations of the bora case indicate rapid dispersion of the plumes and can provide insight into the improvement of air quality in this coastal region.