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R/EH-3
Prediction of Rip Currents
Principal Investigator:
Robert A. DalrympleStart/End Year:
2005 - 2008Institution:
Johns Hopkins UniversityTopic(s):
Description:
OBJECTIVES: To develop a simple methodology for prediction of rip currents, based on theories, numerical modeling, and field observation. This methodology would be used to predict hazardous conditions at the shoreline.
METHODOLOGY: Review and verify existing theories using a numerical Boussinesq wave model. Install a beach monitoring system at Ocean City to observe rip current conditions. Work with lifeguards to gather data and test the methodology.
RATIONALE: Rip currents are one of the most deadly of natural hazards and account for most of the rescues by lifeguards. By providing a simple theory-based methodology to predict the likelihood of these currents, people can be warned and lives saved.
Related Publications:
Dalrymple, Robert A., Jamie H. MacMahan, Ad J.H.M. Reniers, and Varjola Nelko.. 2011. Rip currents. Annual Review of Fluid Mechanics43:551 -581. doi:10.1146/annurev-fluid-122109-160733. UM-SG-RS-2011-09.
Varjola, N; Dalrymple, RA. 2011. Rip current prediction at Ocean City, Maryland. Leatherman, S; Fletemeyer, J, eds. Rip Currents: Beach Safety, Physical Oceanography, and Wave Modeling. CRC Press: Taylor & Francis Group.Chapter 3:45 -57. UM-SG-RS-2011-08.
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Featured Fellow
Leone Yisrael is a cephalopod-loving scuba diver, cook, and loves to try new activities. She conducts genetic analysis and fieldwork at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center through the Coastal Disease Ecology Lab.
Featured Research Project
Exploring the Use of Benthic Microbial Fuel Cells to Remove Sulfide While Harvesting Energy from Oyster Aquaculture Biodeposits
Oyster aquaculture is a rapidly growing industry in Maryland’s Chesapeake waters which stimulates economic activity and may provide a host of ecosystem benefits. A potential concern associated with the intensification of the oyster aquaculture is the local production and accumulation of oyster biodeposits, which can lead to a porewater sulfide accumulation and declining bioturbation, symptoms of declining ecosystem function. Sulfide is naturally removed from the seafloor by the interactions between bioturbating infauna and sulfide oxidizing bacteria.
Chesapeake Quarterly Magazine
A Growing Industry: Advancing Oyster Aquaculture in Maryland
