A coupling module for tides, surges and waves

A generic module in which tides, surges and waves are incorporated has been developed, tested and prepared for dissemination within the framework of t he MAST III PROMISE (PRe-Operational Modelling In the Seas of Europe) proje ct. Two existing pre-operational numerical models, a wave model and a hydro dynamic model, were incorporated into a coupling framework that allows an e fficient exchange of information between them. Minimal adaptation of the mo dels was needed. The module has then been implemented and applied to the North Sea, then a s eries of experiments were performed to investigate the sensitivity of waves and surges to coupling. These experiments show that the sensitivity of wav es to coupling increases from deep to shallow water, The sensitivity of sur ges is more uniformly distributed. The sensitivity of surges to coupling along the Spanish coast was also stud ied. The model results were less sensitive than in the North Sea. This is e xplained by the relative importance of the two forcing components, the atmo spheric pressure and the wind stress, in both areas. (C) 2000 Elsevier Scie nce B.V, All rights reserved.