Salish Sea surface currents: real-time velocities from HF radar

Abstract

Ocean Networks Canada has operated Salish Sea CODAR high-frequency (HF) surface radar systems for monitoring surface currents since 2012. The network of antennae continues to grow, with four arrays now deployed in the southern Strait of Georgia, two more planned for the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and several more installed and planned along BC’s northern coast. These arrays provide hourly maps of surface currents. In the Strait of Georgia, where the Fraser River and ocean tides meet, there are complex surface current patterns that vary under seasonal river and wind conditions. Data are used to understand the circulation, validate model simulations, and could be used to assist in oil spill tracking and search and rescue efforts. An overview of the systems, the currents, data quality procedures, and future plans will be presented

    Similar works