Amplification of tropical cyclone generated waves by ocean current refraction | CU Experts

Waves generated by tropical cyclones can have devastating effects on; coastal regions. However, the role of ocean currents in modifying wave; amplitudes, wavelengths, and directions is commonly overlooked in wave; forecasts, despite the fact that these interactions can lead to extreme; wave conditions. Here, we use satellite observations and wave modeling; to quantify the effects of ocean currents on the surface waves generated; during a tropical cyclone event in the Arabian Sea. This is the first; study documenting coherent beams of wave heights originating from the; eyewall of a tropical cyclone caused by current-induced refraction.; Alternating regions of high and low wave heights in the model; simulations are consistent with observations and extend for thousands of; kilometers all the way to the coast. Our results highlight the; importance of accounting for wave refraction by currents in order to; accurately predict the impact of tropical cyclone generated waves on; coastal regions.

Sun R; Bôas ABV; Subramanian A; Cornuelle B; Mazloff MR; Miller AJ; Langodan S; Hoteit I

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