Quantitative analysis of cyclone-induced storm surges and wave characteristics over Andaman Islands for improved Disaster Risk Reduction

The Andaman Islands in the Bay of Bengal were affected by a Very Severe Cyclone Storm event in November 2013. A study was conducted to evaluate the surge heights and wave characteristics at six locations along the east and west coasts of these islands. The study used the MIKE 21 HD/SW coupled model to simulate the effects of this cyclone on the wave and surge dynamics. The results showed that the locations on the east coast experienced higher surges before and during the landfall, with maximum values reaching up to 0.38 m, compared to the lower surges observed on the leeward side. The analysis of Significant Wave Heights (Hs) and the Peak Wave Period (Tp) revealed that the strongest waves were observed on the right side of the cyclone, with the maximum Hs increasing from 2.3 m to 8.65 m as the wind speed increased. During the time of landfall, the East coast experienced higher waves with Hs ranging from 5.0 m to 6.0 m, while the West coast saw comparatively lower waves with Hs ranging from 0.8 m to 2.0 m.

This study highlights the importance of conducting comprehensive evaluations of the impacts of severe weather events on coastal regions, and the need to consider the spatial and temporal variability of such events when developing risk assessment and disaster management strategies.