Author(s): Juana Fortes; Liliana Pinheiro; Ana Catarina Zozimo; Joao Alfredo Santos

Linked Author(s):

Keywords: HIDRALERTA; Early warning; Alert; Validation; Azores

Abstract: The Port Authority of the Azores, Portos dos Açores, SA, has identified the need for an early warnyng system that is capable to deal with wave induced risks, namely wave overtopping and moored ships. Within the aim of ECOMARPORT project, Portos dos Açores, SA, together with the University of the Azores and LNEC, have developed three new prototypes of HIDRALERTA system for the ports of S. Roque do Pico, Madalena do Pico and Praia da Vitória. The new prototypes have the capacity of predicting both the wave overtopping over the port structures and the forces and movements of the moored ships. Potencial emergency situations can be foreseen, enabling mitigation measures be put in place by the local authorities in order to ensure people safety, port operationality and minimize damage costs. The objective of the work here presented is to analyse and validate the forecasts of HIDRALERTA system for the days associated with extreme events or for which operational problems were reported. The model results are validated with data from wave buoys. The overtopping events and the safety of the moored ships are validated with data gathered by the port authority, including visual observation, photos and videos.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3850/IAHR-39WC2521711920221826

Year: 2022