Estudio preliminar de la caracterización física del estuario del Guadiana (SW Península Ibérica) mediante el empleo del modelo hidrodinámico Mohid

Abstract

Abstract: The dynamics of the Guadiana estuary (SW Iberian Peninsula) is described with the help of MOHID 3D numerical model to know the secondary circulation and the influence of a variable river flow has on it. Two monthly series, the first one in winter and the second one in summer, are simulated to study the seasonality of the circulation. Harmonic constituents are obtained along the estuary in order to discuss about lineal and non-lineal terms. Previously, a validation of the model was made by comparison between data measured in situ and the output model in both winter and summer periods. There is a best agreement in summer than in winter because tide has been forced by the dynamics of the Gulf of Cadiz and, moreover, there is low river flow. Amplitudes of frictional harmonic constituents (M4 and MS4) are less than diurnal ones (O1 and K1) at control point 1 but this situation begins to reverse near to the control point 2, both winter and summer. Due to the Alqueva dam has a strong influence in the estuary, this paper diagnoses the consequences that the regulated flow from Alqueva dam have on the processes of the Guadiana estuary.