Nearshore Wave Modelling in a Norwegian Fjord

Abstract Phase averaged wave models is a good supplement of in situ measurements for the study of wave climate in a specific location. In spite of having been tested in smoothly varying coastal areas, they haven’t previously been systematically validated in complex topography (coastline and bathymetry) such as Norwegian fjords, due to lack of measurements. However, in planning for large fjord crossings, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration have launched a number of buoys which allow for validation of model setup. In the present work, nearshore wave conditions in the area of Sulafjord, central Norway, are investigated as derived from numerical modelling with several different setups, and are compared against in situ buoy measurements with good accordance. The analysis is carried out by transferring offshore wave conditions to the nearshore area by successive applications of the well-known third-generation wave model SWAN. As input has been used a very detailed bathymetry of the area, and time series of wind and wave parameters derived from ERA5 and NORA10 datasets. Various scenarios reconstructing the wave input spectra have been considered.