Climate Variations of Certain Wave Parameters at the Inlet of Novorossiysk Bay

The main purpose of the study is an analysis of the wave climate of Novorossiysk Bay (Black Sea) for 1979-2019. The analysis is based on mathematical modeling results obtained with the modern DHI MIKE 21 SW spectral wave model. The wave model was verified using numerous instrumental data of the wind-wave parameters in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov. As follows from the research, the average power of storm waves in Novorossiysk Bay area is about 8 kW/m. The maximum power ranges from 50 to 100 kW/m but can reach 200 kW/m or more. The total duration of storm waves for one year is 40-60 days. The maximum duration of one storm can be up to three days but does not exceed two days on average. The mean storm duration is usually 10-11 h. The largest number of storms (above 130) was recorded in 2004; on average, there are about 100 storms annually. In recent decades, in the area of Novorossiysk Bay, the maximum wind-wave heights and the total number of storms has increased with statistical control. It is also highly probable that the average annual power of combined waves and maximum storm duration have increased; i.e., the time of continuous wave impact has increased.

Automated summary

The study aims to analyze the wave climate of Novorossiysk Bay over a 40-year period. Based on mathematical modeling using the DHI MIKE 21 SW spectral wave model, the research reveals that the average power of storm waves in the bay is around 8 kW/m, with maximum powers reaching 200 kW/m or more. The total duration of storm waves per year ranges from 40 to 60 days, and the average storm duration is 10-11 hours. The study also suggests an increase in both the maximum wind-wave heights and the total number of storms in recent decades.