Interactions between Surface Waves, Tides, and Storm-Induced Currents over Shelf Waters of the Northwest Atlantic

A coupled wave–tide–circulation model is used to investigate wave–current interactions (WCIs) over the shelf waters of Northwest Atlantic (NWA) during Hurricane Earl (2010). WCIs have substantial impacts on hydrodynamics in upper ocean. The significant wave heights are modulated by WCIs, particularly regions with strong current gradients, a reduction up ~2.1 m (20%) storm. Noticeable decreases surface elevations and tidal currents occur tides such as Gulf Maine, mainly due wave-enhanced bottom stress. Over weak currents, effects dominated two competitive processes between wave-induced forces mixing. former strengthens (up ~0.55 m/s) increases peak storm surge ~0.48 m). latter responsible for storm-induced ~0.94 anticyclonic modulation directions. Vertically, extend vertical shear shift it downward storm, which enhances local mixing changes structures near-inertial oscillations (NIOs). Moreover, also change magnitudes NIOs subtidal affect intensity WCIs.