Interactions of point vortices in the Zabusky-McWilliams model with a background flow

TL;DR

This paper integrates a quasi-geostrophic flow model with the Zabusky-McWilliams vortex theory to predict hurricane interactions, specifically the 'follow-my-leader' phenomenon, with implications for insurance risk assessment.

Contribution

It introduces a novel combination of flow models to analyze vortex interactions and hurricane behavior in a practical context.

Findings

Prediction of vortex 'follow-my-leader' phenomenon

Insights into hurricane interaction dynamics

Potential applications in insurance risk modeling

Abstract

We combine a simple quasi-geostrophic flow model with the Zabusky-McWilliams theory of atmospheric vortex dynamics to address a hurricane-tracking problem of interest to the insurance industry. This enables us to make predictions about the "follow-my-leader" phenomenon.