Wind induced currents in an inlet of a semi-enclosed bay (Kaštela Bay, Adriatic Sea)

Abstract

       Set of current measurement data from the inlet of the Kaštela Bay (Adriatic Sea) and their relation with the wind are examined. Current response to the local wind forcing is described in terms of the linear dynamics. In one part of the inlet the surface inflowing current can be described in terms of the friction balance. At the opposite side of the inlet in the bottom layer the current represents a compensatory flow to the wind induced surface currents.

       The dependence of the wind induced flow pattern in the vertical cross section on the wind direction is also examined. During the wind episodes, the shear in the current field has a horizontal component (curl), while the northeast wind events induce water exchange pattern with the prevalence of the vertical shear.