Tsunami modelling over global oceans

Area of Science:

• Oceanography
• Computational Fluid Dynamics
• Tsunami Science

Background:

• Tsunamis pose a significant global threat, necessitating advanced warning systems.
• The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami highlighted the need for effective tsunami prediction.
• Real-time tsunami height and inundation prediction are critical for coastal protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To simulate global tsunamis using a finite element-based model.
• To assess the accuracy and efficiency of the ADvanced CIRCulation (ADCIRC) model for tsunami prediction.
• To evaluate the model's performance for real-time forecasting applications.

Main Methods:

• Configuration of the ADCIRC model to a global domain with adaptive mesh resolution (2 km in shallow waters, 20 km in deep waters).
• Simulation of significant historical tsunami events.
• Comparison of model-computed results with observational data for validation.

Main Results:

• The ADCIRC model accurately simulates global tsunami propagation and impact.
• Model predictions show good agreement with observed tsunami heights and inundation.
• The model demonstrates computational efficiency suitable for real-time applications.

Conclusions:

• The finite element-based ADCIRC model is a reliable tool for global tsunami simulation.
• ADCIRC's accuracy and efficiency support its application in real-time tsunami early warning systems.
• The study validates the use of ADCIRC for safeguarding coastal communities from tsunami threats.