Generalized inversion of thermistor-chain data and a layer model of Lake Kinneret

We investigate the validity of a two layer model of Lake Kinneret by applying a weak constraint variational assimilation method to thermistor chain data and a two layer model selected from a suite of models of the lake. We chose an error model that reconciles the depth of the 19 °C isotherm and the dynamics of the layered model. With this simple model and meager data set, we were able to determine the spatially nonuniform wind pattern and distinguish it clearly from the effect of assuming a spatially uniform wind. We present statistical evidence for our finding that the two layer model contained sufficient detail to describe the physics of internal waves and residual circulation imbedded in the data. We were also able to determine the time and location of an outcropping event that resulted in a fish kill event.