Structure of the flow within the coastal boundary layer of the Great Lakes.

Abstract

Properties of the nearshore flow were observed in Douglas Point, Lake Huron. Time series flow data obtained from a network of current meters deployed in a coastal chain perpendicular to the local shoreline were analysed to resolve the mean flow properties, horizontal turbulence characteristics and the kinetic energy (in the mean flow and fluctuations) within the coastal boundary layer. The variability of these parameters as a function of the distance from shore for an episode during which persistent short-parallel currents prevailed for several days revealed two distinct boundary layers, an inner boundary layer dominated by bottom and shore friction and an outer boundary layer as a consequence of the adjustments of inertial oscillations to the lateral boundary. (from authors' abstract)