Forecasting contrasting coastal and estuarine hydrodynamics with OPENCoastS

Abstract

Robust and accurate coastal forecasts require models to represent the relevant processes, prediction computa-tional tools and reliable computational resources. OPENCoastS is a free, open-source WebGIS platform to develop on-demand hydrodynamic forecast systems that started as a simple 2D engine. OPENCoastS provides a visuali-zation and download interface with in-situ and Sentinel satellite data comparison. 2D tidal, 2D wave & current interaction and 3D baroclinic flows are now included, forced by several atmospheric, oceanic and riverine forcings. Four applications demonstrate OPENCoastS’ capacity. The prediction of the 2020 typhoon season in Taiwan illustrates the use of the service using only large-scale public data. An application to the Bay of Biscay shows the importance of waves on extreme water levels during storms. A nearshore deployment in Figueira da Foz harbor assesses the impact of bathymetry on coupled wave and current circulation. 3D baroclinic circulation forecasts in Tagus estuary are validated by independent data.