Tidal flow through the Straits of Dover

Abstract

Results are presented from the first long-term deployment of the Mark II OSCR high-frequency radar system. Tidal analysis, in 11 monthly blocks, of measurements made in the Straits of Dover indicate consistent results for seven major constituents, M2, S2, N2, O1, K1, M4, and MS4. Synthesized current ellipse distributions for these constituents are compared with corresponding values from a 2.5-km grid numerical model. This use of high-frequency radar in providing continuous observations of strategic flows demonstrates its capabilities in relation to future oceanographic monitoring systems. -from Authors