An Evaluation Of The Main Ports And Bays In Puerto Rico And The U.S. Virgin Islands As To Their Exposure To Hurricane Wave Attack

This report shows the results of using a wave transformation wind- wave model in conjunction with high-density bathymetry to predict worst-case scenarios for the main ports, harbors and bays in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Included in the report is a discussion of the SWAN model, and the bathymetry and a qualitative diffraction test that were used in the study. Wave diffraction is a new capability in the SWAN version used in this study. Results for each of the 16 locations are given in both filled contour plots of significant wave height, Hs, on top of which depth contour plots are overlaid and Hs values along selected transects. The study concludes by classifying the different ports and bays into highly exposed, well protected and those that simulation was needed to clarify results. These results are discussed on a case-by-case basis.