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Research Areas
Flood Hazards
We study flood hazards induced by extreme events such as hurricanes, heavy rainfall, and dam or levee failure. We aim to better understand evolving hazards associated with flooding, motivated by the rapid growth of population and assets in low–lying areas, and intensifying storms. Through hydrodynamic and wave numerical modeling, we specifically study storm surge and wave hazards and their impacts on coastal areas.
Flood Adaptation
Flood risk reduction using hybrid engineering and soft solutions, and nature-based solutions is an active area of research in our group. Due to their flood reduction benefits and other co-benefits, such solutions have gained significant attention among the public and decision makers. We develop new methods to design and quantify the performance of such flood adaptation strategies under extreme events. We apply these models to real–life case studies to investigate their benefits as buffers against inundation, storm surge, and waves.
Wind-Generated Waves
Ocean wind-generated waves are an integral component of Earth’s system. In addition to causing coastal erosion, flooding, and damage to structures, waves impact coastal water circulation, ecosystem health, and marine atmospheric boundary layer, and provide a source of energy. We study wind-wave variability and trends over multiple time scales. Our approach is based on statistical analyses of measurements, model outputs, and reanalysis datasets. We are also interested in understanding the long-term impacts of waves on coastal communities and infrastructure.
Coastal Dynamics
Dynamic processes in the nearshore region are generated by a number of different drivers such as tides, storm surge, and surface waves. Using theories, measurements, and numerical modeling, our group studies the influence of different driving forces and their interactions on nearshore processes. We specifically study wave-current interactions, water circulation, and coastal erosion.
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