Active Research Projects
Development of an Optimized Hurricane Storm Surge–Wave Model for the Northern Gulf of Mexico for use with the ADCIRC Surge Guidance System
Project Sponsors: Department of Homeland Security Coastal Resilience Center
PI: Scott C. Hagen, LSU CCE/CCT, Director LSU CCR
Co-PI: Stephen C. Medeiros, University of Central Florida
Collaborating Partners: Matthew V. Bilskie, LSU CCR
Project Summary This project will advance state-of-the-art model development by introducing novel
terrain analysis techniques and lidar-based surface roughness parameterization at
the regional scale. These advanced techniques will also be used to develop intelligent,
stable, and semi-automated mesh de-refinement methods for optimizing a research grade
(i.e., high resolution) storm surge model to reduce computational time to the point
where it can be run within reasonable real-time forecast time frames (e.g., ~1-2 hrs).
We will use a protocol based on emphasizing hydraulically significant embankment or
valley features to optimize
a research grade model of the MS, AL, and FL Panhandle. Since the purpose of ASGS
is the provision of real-time hazard guidance, we will emphasize the accurate capture
of the timing and magnitude maximum water levels. This will be achieved by employing
mesh
development techniques such as: running preliminary simulations to define active floodplain
and removing unnecessary elements (relevant because the research grade model was developed
to accommodate up to two meters of sea level rise); employing accelerated
element relaxation moving outward from significant vertical features; and enforcing stricter
criteria for vertical feature inclusion (especially for channels). Objective error metrics
will be used to assess model performance. The final outcome/deliverable will be
an accurate, optimized hurricane storm surge model of the northern Gulf of Mexico
(MS, AL, & FL Panhandle) that is suitable for use with the ASGS including improved
surface roughness parameterization from our lidar-based technique. In addition, this
high resolution
ADCIRC+SWAN model will serve as a benchmark for validating future versions that may incorporate
less resolution or smaller regional focus.