An Approach to Approximate Wave Height from Acoustic Tide Gauges

Abstract The demand for nearshore wave observations is increasing due to spatial gaps and the importance of accurate models better understanding inundation processes. Here, we show how water level (WL) standard deviation (sigma, σ) measurements at three acoustic NOAA tide gauges that utilize an Aquatrak sensor (Duck, NC, Bob Hall Pier (BHP) in Corpus Christi, TX, Lake Worth, FL) can be used as a proxy significant height (H m0 ). Sigma derived H calibrated best fit nearby error quantified through RMSE, normalized RMSE (NRMSE), bias, scatter index. At Duck quadratic sigma results R 2 0.97 0.83, 0.11 m m, NRMSE 0.09 0.22, respectively. A linear between BHP resulting 0.62, 0.26. Regression fits deviate across stations from classic relationship = 4σ, indicating cannot accurately estimated with this approach these sites. dynamic (DWL still WL ± 2σ) calculated over historic time series showing climatological seasonal trends stations’ daily maximums. historical DWL could many dating back 1996. These fill observational gaps, validate models, improve climates.