Comparative analysis of the SWAN numerical model predictions and of the pressure sensor measurements at the ilha Solteira lake

Abstract

The Ilha Solteira dam reservoir, which has an extension of 100 km, is located in the northwest of São Paulo state, Brazil. Due to its huge dimension, wind generated waves can cause problems to the navigation security, to the stability of the river banks, to the infrastructures around the reservoir or even to public safety. In 2010/2011, a field data campaign was undertaken in order to measure the wave height and wind velocity. The bottom profile and wind velocity were used on the SWAN (Simulating Waves Nearshore) to predict the wave height. From the obtained results it can be said that the prediction from the numerical model presents similarities with the experimental ones.