A Non-Dimensional Stationary Hurricane Wave Model

1. Abstract A model hurricane wind field for stationary hurricane proposed by the U.S. Weather Service was used to develop cartesian component wind fields. The component wind fields, thus determined were used together with wave forecasting relationships to generate component wave fields, which were then combined to obtain stationary hurricane wave fields. 51 typical hurricanes covering all ranges of possible latitude were considered, and were used to develop the non-dimensional stationary hurricane wave model parameters. Procedures are given to correct the hurricane wind and wave fields for a moving hurricane. 2. Introduction This paper discusses only the deep water wave generation for tropical cyclones, namely hurricanes and typhoons. However, the procedures outlined in this paper for deep water can also be applied to the extra-tropical cyclones. Fig. 1 (after Dunn and Miller, 1964) shows the areas of the world where tropical cyclones form. This figure does not show the areas of the world to where these tropical cyclones travel and finally die. The area of decay covers much of the earth's sea and land surfaces. Tropical cyclones and hurricanes also pass near to and/or over the Hawaiian Islands. Fig. 2 (after 8.8. Visher, 1925) shows the paths of the historical tropical cyclones and hurricanes within the vicinity of the Hawaiian Islands. The paths of two recent hurricanes, "NINA", December 1957, and "DOT", August 1959, that had a direct impact on the Hawaiian Islands are shown in Fig. 3. Figs. 2 and 3 (as well as Fig. 1) are not up to date, particularly for Hawaii. There have been a number of tropical cyclones and hurricanes affecting the 8tate of Hawaii since the report of Visher (1925). The Hawaiian tropical cyclones and hurricanes are less intense than those of the Atlantic, Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, Western Pacific, South China Sea, Philippines, Japan, Australia, among others. However, the Hawaiian tropical cyclones and hurricanes are an important consideration. They are dangerous because they are less frequent. They should be considered in the design of coastal and offshore structures. They are important to consider for civil defense in regard to protection and evacuation of people as a result of high winds and possible flooding. 3. Previous Work on Hurricane Wave Predictions The art of wave forecasting was first introduced during World War II, and a report following the developments was presented by Sverdrup and Munk (1947). Francis, Jr. (1944) presented a method for forecasting waves generated by tropical storms. Otherwise, standard wave forecasting techniques based on constant wind speed and direction were adapted to the variable wind speed and direction for hurricanes.