Three-dimensional curvilinear modelling of wind-induced flows through the North Channel of the Irish Sea

摘要

A three-dimensional non-orthogonal curvilinear model of the Celtic Sea, Irish Sea, North Channel and Malin Shelf has been developed to investigate the wind-induced dynamics of flows through the North Channel of the Irish Sea. This variable resolution approach allows the inclusion of far field effects whilst providing the appropriate fine resolution (of the order of 1 km) to resolve the complex local bathymetry and current structure of the North Channel. Wind-induced fluxes through the North Channel are presented for a variety of meteorological conditions including a 'big event', and the importance of appropriate representation of far field effects is demonstrated. The structure of the predicted flows both vertically and across sections of the North Channel is discussed and conclusions are drawn on the dominant mechanisms for the transport of material from the Irish Sea. This work has particular relevance to the understanding of factors controlling the flushing of contaminants from the Eastern Irish Sea and fisheries recruitment.