Tidal transformation and resonance in a short, microtidal Mediterranean estuary (Alfacs Bay in Ebre delta)

Tidal and subtidal waves are analyzed with sea-level data and numerical modeling in a short and micro-tidal embayment, Alfacs Bay (NW Mediterranean Sea). Data analysis exhibits tidal wave amplification and seiching (characteristic period of 3.5 h) along the bay. Numerical results show an eight-fold increase in quarter-wave resonant wave amplitudes from the mouth to the head of the bay. This amplification follows the classical description of a standing wave. Moreover, resonant wave velocities measured and computed at the bay mouth (node location) are about one order of magnitude higher than tidal currents. Analysis of astronomic tidal propagation in the bay reveals similar behavior for diurnal and semidiurnal constituents. Tidal waves amplify along the bay by 3% for diurnal and 10% for semidiurnal constituents. Numerical simulations conducted with different domains indicate that geometric effects dominate over frictional influences in causing the wave behavior. This behavior is consistent with the existence of a quasi-steady standing wave within the bay.