On the effectiveness of mangroves in attenuating cyclone induced waves

Conference paper (2010)
Department
Hydraulic Engineering (CEG) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2010 Siddarth Narayan
Wave Attenuation Mangroves Vegetation Factor Cyclones
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Published Date

01-07-2010

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Source:

Proceedings of the 32th International Conference on Coastal Engineering, ICCE 2010, June/July, Shanghai

Faculty

Civil Engineering and Geosciences

Department

Hydraulic Engineering

Abstract

A study of the effectiveness of mangroves in attenuating cyclone- induced waves was done using the SWAN 40.81 numerical model. Hydraulic parameters during extreme events and local mangrove vegetation parameters were estimated for the Kanika Sands mangrove island near the upcoming Dhamra Port in Orissa, India. Simplified generic analyses were first conducted to obtain insights into the characteristics and behaviour of the model and the system. These were used to select relevant scenarios for simulations of actual conditions at the case-study site. The mangroves were found to be effective in reducing wave heights at the port behind the island though the effectiveness is limited by its geometry and distance from the port. The presence of vegetation has a marked effect though the effect of a variation in vegetation factor is limited. An optimum cross-shore width range for maximum protection was quantified.