High Resolution Modeling of Near-Shore Wave Breaking During Strong Storms

Realistically estimating the impact of depth-induced wave breaking processes during extreme weather events is a critical factor in planning and designing near-shore structures such as wind turbines. A high-resolution air-sea-wave coupled model is developed for the southeast US coastal regions. Earth System Modeling Framework (ESMF) is used as the coupler. The model's configuration and coupling mechanism are described. Case studies are conducted using several strong hurricanes. The simulations of the track, strength, wind fields of the hurricanes and the ocean's response are presented. The modeled significant wave heights are compared against observations. The simulated near-shore wave breaking processes are discussed.