Surface current and wave measurement during cyclone Phailin by high frequency radars along the Indian coast

Abstract

Cyclone Phailin originated in the east central Bay of Bengal (BoB) and crossed into the Indian mainland after traversing through the BoB. High frequency radar (HFR) operated by the National Institute of Ocean Technology could track the surface currents and high wave activity within its measuring limits. The radar data provide valuable information on the surface dynamics during the cyclone period. The HFR observations compare well with those of wave rider buoy. This opens up opportunities for observing the wave conditions during the cyclonic period over longer distances from the shore. This method is relatively more robust as HFR is less likely to be disrupted due to the passage of cyclones, unlike moored systems.