Implementation of the swash model into HIDRALERTA system

Abstract

Early warning systems are an important tool for local authorities to detect emergency situations in advance and initiate the necessary safety measure. The To-SEAlert project has the aim of increasing the efficiency, robustness and reliability of the HIDRALERTA coastal hazards early warning system. This study shows a first intent to implement the SWASH numerical model to simulate wave overtopping for the Ericeira prototype. SWASH was implemented for one breakwater profile where overtopping discharge and associated risk levels are estimated. It was compared to the current approach used in HIDRALERTA, the neuronal network NN_OVERTOPPING2. Finally, both approaches were compared with previously analysed video images of the site. The results showed that SWASH generally overestimates overtopping and is not in good agreement with the NN_OVERTOPPING2 or the video images. A possible reason might be the wave direction, which cannot be included in one-dimensional simulations in SWASH.