A Numerical Model for the Simulation of Tidal Hydrodynamics in Shallow Irregular Estuaries

Working under the assumption of complete vertical mixing, a two-dimensional time dependent model is described which provides spatial and temporal variations of tidal flows and amplitudes, The model accounts for various physiographic features found in shallow estuaries, variable inflows, low tidal action, and other hydrologic characteristics. The model further provides for the inclusion of wind stress and Coriolis forces. The basic outputs from the model are the time histories of tidal amplitude and velocity in each of two spatial coordinate directions. Data that can be obtained from the model include phase relations, time of flood, ebb, and slack tides, net flows, circulation patterns, tidal excursions, and tidal prisms. The model is designed in such a manner that its basic output serves as direct input to a convective-dispersion model. Although dispersion modeling is not discussed in this report, the interface between these two models is described where appropriate, as the output from the tidal hydrodynamic model is determined in part by the requirements for convective-dispersion or transport models. (Author)