Monday April 6th, 4pm, Mann Hall 323
Abstract: Rip currents are the number one cause for drownings and lifeguard rescues in the U.S. each year. One way the number of rip related incidents can be reduced is by using nearshore observational research to improve the existing rip current forecast index. Observational research has shown that wave height, tidal height and surf zone bathymetry are all predominant controlling factors of rip currents. Although wave height and tidal height are integrated into the existing rip current forecast index, data regarding the surf zone bathymetry has not yet been included. In addition, wave direction has been shown through lab and numerical model studies to have an impact on rip activity. Directional wave data is considered in most rip current forecasts, however data is usually collected far off-shore before refraction can be taken into account. Thus, to improve our ability to forecast rip currents, bathymetry and nearshore directional wave data must be more effectively included within any rip current forecast index. To better asses how this might be accomplished observational data is being collected in the 2008 and 2009 beach hazard study in Kill Devil Hills, NC.