Recurrence interval of abnormally high tides by superposition of storms surges over astronomical tides.

Abstract

Fundamental problems confronting the civil engineer engaged in design of shore protection works are (a) determination of the expected recurrence interval of a specified water level and (b) estimation of the highest water level to be expected in a given interval of time. Tide levels due to astronomical influence are mathematically predictable. Excessively high tides may, however,result from barometric pressure differential, climate change (e.g., global warming), storm winds, and various combinations of these. Storm tides are not true tides. They are essentially a storm generated wave piling up on a lee shore. In the work presented here it is assumed that the phenomena of extreme storm tides are due solely to extreme wind effects.