Predicting the vertical structure of tidal current and salinity in San Francisco Bay, California

Water Resources Research
By: , and 

Links

Abstract

A two-dimensional laterally averaged numerical estuarine model is developed to study the vertical variations of tidal hydrodynamic properties in the central/north part of San Francisco Bay, California. Tidal stage data, current meter measurements, and conductivity, temperature, and depth profiling data in San Francisco Bay are used for comparison with model predictions. An extensive review of the literature is conducted to assess the success and failure of previous similar investigations and to establish a strategy for development of the present model. A σ plane transformation is used in the vertical dimension to alleviate problems associated with fixed grid model applications in the bay, where the tidal range can be as much as 20–25% of the total water depth. Model predictions of tidal stage and velocity compare favorably with the available field data, and prototype salinity stratification is qualitatively reproduced. Conclusions from this study as well as future model applications and research needs are discussed.

Study Area

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Predicting the vertical structure of tidal current and salinity in San Francisco Bay, California
Series title Water Resources Research
DOI 10.1029/WR026i005p01027
Volume 26
Issue 5
Year Published 1990
Language English
Publisher American Geophysical Union
Contributing office(s) San Francisco Bay-Delta, Pacific Regional Director's Office
Description 19 p.
First page 1027
Last page 1045
Country United States
State California
Other Geospatial San Francisco Bay
Online Only (Y/N) N
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details