Wave ensemble prediction system for coastal flood forecasting

A project developing, trialling and demonstrating the benefits of a wave ensemble prediction system (wave-EPS) for coastal flood forecasting.

Documents

External link: Developing, trialling and demonstrating the benefits of a wave ensemble prediction system for coastal flood forecasting

Details

The Environment Agency undertook a project from 2012 to 2016 with the Met Office to develop, trial and demonstrate the benefits of a wave ensemble forecasting system for coastal flood forecasting.

This project was driven by the need for more robust forecasts of the water levels (tide plus surge) and sea state that can lead to coastal flooding in the UK. Probabilistic wave forecasts are needed alongside tide and surge data because flooding events and damage to coastal defences are frequently affected by wave conditions.

The project ran alongside the development of a wave ensemble prediction system (wave-EPS). The positive outcomes of the project demonstrated the case for further wave-EPS forecasting and development activities.

Published 23 February 2021