3D animation of the “Rissaga” phenomenon

SOCIB, in collaboration with "Obra Social - La Caixa" and the Animation and Media Technological Unit from the University of the Balearic Islands, led by Juan Montes de Oca, has developed a 3D animation on the large sea level oscillation in harbors known as “Rissaga". This new didactic animation aims to explain what is the “Rissaga" phenomenon and how it occurs, by reviewing the different phases: the generation at sea, the atmosphere-ocean coupling and the later amplification in the Port of Ciutadella. The “Rissaga" is a curious oceanographic phenomenon that occurs in some coves and harbors both in the Balearic Islands and other seas in the world, consisting of major sea level oscillations with oscillation periods of a few minutes. In more severe cases, within a few minutes shallower areas of the port may be drained of water, possibly leaving boats stranded. Minutes later the water returns, climbing rapidly with great force, creating an intense current. This may cause moorings to break and boats to be dragged around, bumping into each other or against the jetties.

SOCIB is committed with the development of audiovisual and multimedia products to improve communication and outreach strategy and thus inform and engage the public. Excellent science with impact on society. Currently SOCIB, through its Modeling and Forecasting Division, is also developing a numerical prediction model known as BRIFS (Balearic Rissaga Forecasting System) to provide quantitative predictions of when this phenomenon will occur and try to estimate its magnitude. More recently, since August 2014, ETD team has installed new current meter and atmospheric pressure sensors in the harbor, and data are available in real time through SOCIB data center.

How this phenomenon occurs? What are the mechanisms that cause the amplification at the Port of Ciutadella, know it in detail visiting the following link: