In this work, we present the results of the verification of Simulating WAves Nearshore (SWAN) third-generation numerical wave model coupled online with the Delft3D FLOW module for 2 areas of the Barents Sea. The Delft3D-WAVE module currently incorporates the SWAN model as the standard option within Delft3D. Several scenarios are investigated through comparison with buoy measurements deployed in 2 locations. Most parameters, such as eddy viscosity, wind drag coefficients, depth-induced breaking (αB, γB), bottom friction show no significant sensitivity to the SWAN model predictions. Considerable differences in the wave model results are attained by switching whitecapping parametrization from Komen to van der Westhuysen. An optimal combination of model setup parameters was determined for a study region.
The growing interest in the Russian Arctic region is primarily driven by the increasing development of the oil and gas industry. The exploration of ocean resources in the Arctic region, development of the Northern Sea Route, and coastal construction have led to increasing demand for hydrometeorological observations.
Wind-driven waves are a highly energetic ocean phenomenon and limiting factor for oceanic operations and construction works. The design of offshore installations and the planning of offshore operations significantly depend on reliable statistics of wind and waves.
The Russian Arctic region is traditionally sparsely covered with in-situ observations due to the remote location and harsh climatic conditions. The lack of in-situ wave data observations for the nearshore zones of the polar regions and the rapid growth of the maritime industry in these areas create an ever-growing demand for wave data obtained by numerical modelling.
The wave conditions in the Barents Sea have previously been investigated in a number of studies (Reistad et al., 2011; Myslenkov et al., 2015; Korablina et al., 2016; Myslenkov et al., 2016; Myslenkov et al., 2018; Myslenkov et al., 2020). The authors used different approaches, wave models and wind forcings, as well as different types of data for model verification. However, these studies do not provide us with any particular insights on parameters selection for model setup, as well as on sensitivity analysis of the model parameters for the study region.
