METEOROLOGY – EA URFACE & OCEAN-ATMOPHERE CALCULATOR
Storm Surge Track
A precise tool.
What is the Storm Surge Track & How does it work?
Storm surge is the abnormal rise in sea level during a storm, typically caused by strong winds pushing water onshore and low atmospheric pressure reducing water pressure.
The height of the storm surge can be influenced by several factors including wind speed, duration of the storm, and the width of the continental shelf. The formula to estimate storm surge height is given by:
H_s = k cdot v^2 cdot t cdot left(1 – e^{-frac{d}{L}}right)
H_s = storm surge height, k = empirical constant, v = wind speed, t = duration of the storm, d = distance from shore, L = shelf width
Parameters
Result
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is storm surge?
Storm surge is the abnormal rise in sea level during a storm caused by strong winds pushing water onshore and low atmospheric pressure reducing water pressure.
How does wind speed affect storm surge height?
Wind speed has a significant impact on storm surge height, as higher wind speeds result in greater water displacement and increased storm surge levels.
What is the role of duration in storm surge estimation?
The duration of the storm affects how long the wind continues to push water onshore, which directly influences the height of the storm surge.
How does the width of the continental shelf influence storm surge?
A wider continental shelf allows for more water displacement, potentially increasing the height of the storm surge during a storm event.
What is the empirical constant ‘k’ in the storm surge formula?
The empirical constant ‘k’ in the storm surge formula is a factor that accounts for various local conditions and is typically determined through observational data.
Can this calculator be used to predict storm surges for any location?
While this calculator provides a general estimation, it’s important to consider specific local factors and use real-time data for accurate storm surge predictions in any location.
What are the limitations of using this formula for storm surge prediction?
This formula is a simplified model and does not account for all variables such as tides, river inflows, or the specific topography of the coastline, which can affect storm surge height.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.