Are tidal predictions a good guide to future extremes?-a critique of the Witness King Tides project

Abstract

An analysis of the viability of the Witness King Tides project (hereafter called WKT) using data from the GESLA-2 database of quasi-global tide-gauge records is described. The results indicate regions of the world where a key criterion for a WKT project (that it be executed on a day of unusually high sea level) would likely be met (e.g. the west coast of the USA) and others where it would not (e.g. the east coast of North America). Recommendations are made both for assessments that should be made prior to a WKT project and also for an alternative to WKT projects.