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Content: BSH Model
Product name: BSHdmod.L
Description: Lagrangian Dispersion Model for the North Sea and Baltic Sea
Quantity: 1
Mobilisation time: Immediately
Normal location: BSH Hamburg
Conditions for offering assistance:
Requests must be send via CCME/ Maritime Reporting and Assessment Centre
Long description:
To simulate the drift and dispersion of a substance in the Lagrangian Dispersion Model, the particular substance is represented by a particle cloud drifting with the current. Drift and dispersion forecasts are based on wind predictions of the DWD'S (German Weather Service) atmospheric models and on currents predicted by the BSH's Operational Circulation Model of the North Sea and Baltic Sea. In the dispersion model, also turbulence is taken into account. Sub-scale motion is simulated by a Monte Carlo method. Substances floating on the surface are additionally driven by a certain percentage of wind velocity. In simulations of oil dispersion, the physical behaviour of different oil types on the water surface and in the water column is taken into account as well. The BSH's oil drift model simulates wind and current-induced drift, spreading, horizontal and vertical dispersion, evaporation, emulsification, sinking, beaching as well as the deposition of oil on the sea bed.
The Lagrangian Dispersion Model is used primarily to support search and rescue operations and to assist the coast guard in cases of marine environmental pollution. Among its applications are drift forecasts for shipwrecked persons and floating objects (boats, lost cargo etc), as well as drift and dispersion computations for oil and water-soluble chemicals. The model is frequently used to trace back harmful substances and is thus a valuable tool in identifying environmental polluters.
