Comparison of observed (HF radar, ADCP) and model barotropic tidal currents in the New York Bight and Block Island Sound

A three-dimensional, primitive-equation model is used to simulate the barotropically-forced semidiurnal tidal currents in the New York Bight (NYB) and Block Island Sound (BIS). Model tidal velocity ellipses are verified at historical current meter locations and with measurements from acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCPs) and HF radar (CODAR). The model reproduces well the regional tidal flow pattern as well as the vertical tidal velocity structure. The model misfits typically are 2e4 cm/s in amplitude and 5e7 in orientation. Through comprehensive skill assessment, the model’s capacity of simulating the three-dimensional barotropic tidal currents is clearly demonstrated. Moreover, it is shown that the integrity of HF radar measurements can be assured by verifying with model tidal ellipses.