High-resolution numerical model showing how extraordinary rainfall during Harvey (Category 5) flushed out Galveston Bay and pushed river plume far offshore.
Pollutants released (indicated by passive particles) following different pathways depending on their release times
We are coastal modeling group at Texas A&M University (Galveston Campus). We use advanced numerical models and high-performance supercomputers to study marine science problems that are worsened under changing climate, natural disturbance, and human activities.
To better understand what is happening in the aquatic water, numerical models provide a synoptic view of the physical processes, not just at one place or a depth. Numerical models are powerful tools to integrate in-situ measurements and remote sensing data in a mathematics-based 3-dimensional world. It is also the only way we can predict future conditions and do large-scale experiments of our planet.
GoM-SCHISM
Based onSCHISM, we configure, calibrate, and validate a hydrodynamic model for the northwestern Gulf of Mexico. The model robustly represents highly complex bathymetric and geographic features with flexible horizontal and vertical grids. The model has served as a solid platform for multiple inter-disciplinary research on transport of pollutants, impact of extreme weather events, and coastal resilience.
Tidal Response to Sea Level Rise
Tidal response to sea-level rise (SLR) varies in different coastal systems. With a set of idealized models, we demonstrate a non-linear tidal response to SLR depending on the length, bathymetry, and geometry (converging or not) of an estuary.
Hydrodynamic and Sedimentary Response to Hurricane Harvey
Hurricane Harvey (Category 5) made several landings along the Gulf Coast, bringing unprecedented rainfall at Houston metropolitan area. Combining observational data and numerical tool, this study quantifies the total amount of freshwater input (almost impossible to measure directly) and shows how an extreme weather event could drastically disturb the water quality and sedimentary processes.
Compound Flooding
Compound floodings are caused by multiple factors including tide, freshwater input, and wind-induced surge. Using a creek-to-ocean cross-scale model with a single grid (without nesting), this study examines the impact of ocean, river and precipitation on the flooding during Hurricane Harvey (2017).
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