A Review of Numerical Modelling of Cyclones and Tsunamis in the Arabian Sea by Royal HaskoningDHV

Abstract

Significant loss of life and damage to properties, ecosystems and marine facilities can occur due to various natural hazards such as cyclones and tsunamis. Modelling results are used for deriving robust design conditions for coastal and marine structures and facilities. The modelling results are also used for emergency planning and decision-making to estimate potential loss of life, damage to properties and marine facilities and to develop rescue and mitigation measures and plan clean-up operations. Royal HaskoningDHV has developed regional hydrodynamic and wave models covering the Arabian Sea to address these issues. A total of 30 major cyclones were initially identified in the Arabian Sea since 1945 from where 13 major cyclones were simulated. The tsunami modelling was carried out on an earthquake along the Makran Fault Line in 1945. Sample results from these modelling studies are presented in this paper for illustration purposes. The models could be used to simulate any cyclone and tsunami generated anywhere within the Arabian Sea. The methodology described in this article for modelling cyclones and tsunamis in the Arabian Sea could be applied to simulate these natural hazards at other sites around the world.