Tidal Prediction Using the Advanced Circulation Model (ADCIRC) and a Relocatable PC-based System

77 Oceanography • Vol. 15 • No. 1/2002 advances in computing bring to the forefront the numerical model as an alternative means to obtain high resolution, up-to-date forecasts of tidal elevations and currents. Such models can ingest recent bathymetric measurements and include transient meteorological effects such as wind and atmospheric pressure. The spatial and temporal density of the forecast information can be readily tailored to specific applications and needs. This paper contains details regarding the design of a tidal forecast system subject to the constraints of an operational environment. Specifics of the Navy’s tidal prediction system are addressed with descriptions of the numerical prediction models, examples of operational products and results from recent validation tests of the operational forecast system. The paper concludes with a look at recent developments of the modeling system that will likely advance the future operational tidal prediction capability of the Navy.

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