Mathematical Modeling Of Circulation And Hurricane Surge In Pamlico Sound, N.C.

Pamlico Sound is a large semi-enclosed body of partially saline water on the coast of North Carolina separated by a narrow strip of barrier islands from the Atlantic Ocean. Freshwater inflow is from two major rivers and from Albemarle Sound. There is tidal flow across the inlets. Wind is a major factor in circulation, and there is considerable surge action during the hurricanes. A numerical model based on the two-dimensional shallow water hydrodynamic equations is used to compute water surface elevations and currents. The model uses an explicit finite difference representation, and includes convective acceleration, and nonlinear surface and bottom stress. The time dependent water movements are computed for an observed hurricane with good success. The model can be used to predict surge heights for coastal protection, and it will provide data for water resource management and for pollution control. A user's manual consisting of the listing of the computer program and instructions is given in the appendix to the report. Grant no. 04-6-158-44054