Comparative simulations of the 2011 Tohoku tsunami with MOST and Cliffs

TL;DR

This paper compares the accuracy of the MOST and Cliffs tsunami simulation models using the 2011 Tohoku event, demonstrating Cliffs' superior performance in modeling later waves and complex coastal interactions.

Contribution

Introduction of Cliffs, a new tsunami simulation method that improves accuracy over MOST, especially for later waves and complex coastal geometries.

Findings

Cliffs outperforms MOST in simulating later waves.

Cliffs provides more accurate results in complex coastal regions.

Simulations closely match tide gage records for the Tohoku tsunami.

Abstract

Wet-dry interface which appreciably increases accuracy of tsunami simulations with the MOST model (Method of Splitting Tsunamis, adapted by the NOAA for tsunami forecasting operations) is highlighted here with a few comparative simulations. The new solution, termed Cliffs, exceeds all MOST versions in accuracy of computing later waves. This is demonstrated with simulation of the Tohoku-2011 tsunami to Monterey Bay, CA, and into fiords, bays, and inlets of southeastern Alaska, followed by comparison with tide gage records.