MESSINA WHIRLS IN PRESENT AND PAST

A two-dimensional initial boundary value problem for numerical computa tion of the tidal dynamics and circulation in the Strait of Messina is considered. The equations are integrated by the semi-implicit method in curvilinear coordinates concordant with configuration of the domain . The whirls evoked by the M(2) - wave and by sum of the main seven ha rmonics M(2), S-2 N-2, K-2, K-1, O-1, P-1 are localized. A relative ro le of the factors determining unusual intensive tidal dynamics in the Strait is clarified. In hypothetical situation referred to the remote past the possibility of hydrodynamical interpretation of the Odysseus trajectories in the Strait of Messina is shown.