In a recent study published in the journal *Maritime Research and Technology* (formerly known as *Maritime Research and Technology*), researchers have shed light on the intricate relationship between wind patterns, atmospheric pressure, and surge heights at Alexandria Western Harbor (AWH). The research, led by Mohamed Mahmoud Mohamed Heiba from the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, offers valuable insights into how meteorological conditions influence surge behavior, with significant implications for maritime operations and coastal management.
The study, which spanned 19 months from June 2018 to January 2020, analyzed hourly sea level data collected from a radar sensor at the harbor’s pier, alongside meteorological data from the nearby Ras El Tin weather station. Using the t-tide package in MATLAB, the researchers processed the sea level data to separate astronomical tides from surge components. The findings revealed that surge heights at AWH varied between 29.2 cm and 68 cm, with an average of 50.7 cm over the study period.
One of the key findings was the dominant wind regime, which primarily came from the northwest, west-northwest, and west directions, with speeds ranging from 0 to 19.55 meters per second. The mean wind speed during the study period was 5.98 meters per second. Atmospheric pressure also played a role, varying between 1001 and 1026.6 millibars, with an average of 1011.81 millibars.
The study highlighted that wind speed had a more significant impact on surge heights than atmospheric pressure. “The wind speed has the upper hand in the observed variations in surge heights at AWH, with a correlation coefficient of 0.25,” noted Heiba. In contrast, atmospheric pressure showed an inverse correlation with surge height, with a correlation coefficient of -0.35.
For maritime professionals, these findings are crucial. Understanding the relationship between wind patterns and surge heights can help in planning and managing port operations more effectively. For instance, knowing when to expect higher surges can aid in scheduling vessel arrivals and departures, reducing the risk of damage to ships and infrastructure. Additionally, coastal managers can use this information to better prepare for potential flooding events, protecting both property and human life.
The study also opens up opportunities for further research. As Heiba explained, “While our findings provide a solid foundation, there’s still much to explore. Future studies could delve deeper into the specific mechanisms driving these correlations and how they might change under different climatic conditions.”
In conclusion, this research not only advances our scientific understanding of surge behavior but also offers practical benefits for the maritime industry. By leveraging these insights, stakeholders can make more informed decisions, ultimately enhancing the safety and efficiency of maritime operations.