APPLICATION OF ADVANCED DATA ASSIMILATION METHODS FOR THE INITIALIZATION OF STORM-SURGE MODELS

A sequential data assimilation technique (utilising a reduced-rank squ are-root filter) has been incorporated into the complete non-linear eq uations of a hydrodynamical module of a standard two dimensional hydro dynamic modelling tool. The deterministic model output is corrected us ing the available data and the best model initial conditions are gener ated. The deterministic model is then used to generate the water level forecast. A description of the general technique that is applied and its adaptation to this particular problem are provided. The applicatio n to a real storm that occurred during February 1993 in the North sea is presented.