Wave Run-up Calculator
Calculate Wave Run-up (R2%)
About the Wave Run-up Calculator
The Wave Run-up Calculator is a scientifically designed tool to estimate wave run-up (R2%) on sandy beaches, using the Stockdon et al. (2006) model. It calculates the maximum vertical extent of wave uprush based on significant wave height, peak wave period, and beach slope. Grounded in peer-reviewed coastal engineering research, this calculator provides reliable results for coastal managers, engineers, and researchers. Explore its applications with resources like Agri Care Hub and Wave Run-up.
Importance of the Wave Run-up Calculator
Wave run-up is a critical parameter in coastal engineering, determining the maximum elevation waves reach on a beach, which impacts erosion, flooding, and infrastructure safety. The Wave Run-up Calculator is essential for quantifying this phenomenon, enabling stakeholders to assess coastal vulnerability and plan protective measures. It supports the design of sea defenses, predicts flooding risks during storms, and aids in managing beach erosion. By providing accurate calculations based on the Stockdon model, the tool ensures data-driven decisions for coastal communities, as validated by studies like Power et al. (2018).
[](https://py-wave-runup.readthedocs.io/en/latest/auto_examples/plot_stockdon.html)Purpose of the Wave Run-up Calculator
The primary purpose of the Wave Run-up Calculator is to provide a user-friendly, scientifically accurate tool for estimating wave run-up (R2%) on sandy beaches. It serves coastal engineers, environmental planners, and researchers by offering insights into wave dynamics under varying conditions. The calculator uses the Stockdon et al. (2006) model, which distinguishes between dissipative and intermediate/reflective beaches, ensuring precise results. It is ideal for assessing coastal hazards, designing protective structures, or educating students about wave processes, as supported by resources like Wave Run-up.
[](https://py-wave-runup.readthedocs.io/en/latest/auto_examples/plot_stockdon.html)Why You Should Use the Wave Run-up Calculator
The Wave Run-up Calculator offers several benefits:
- Coastal Hazard Assessment: Quantify wave run-up to evaluate flooding and erosion risks.
- Infrastructure Design: Inform the design of sea walls, groins, and other coastal defenses.
- Educational Tool: Enhance learning about wave dynamics and coastal processes.
- Conservation Support: Assess impacts on coastal ecosystems and plan mitigation strategies.
- User-Friendly Design: Simplify complex calculations for non-experts while maintaining accuracy.
This tool is particularly valuable for regions prone to storms or sea-level rise, as highlighted by Agri Care Hub.
When to Use the Wave Run-up Calculator
The Wave Run-up Calculator is suitable for various scenarios:
- Coastal Engineering Projects: Use it to design defenses or assess infrastructure vulnerability.
- Environmental Monitoring: Evaluate wave impacts on beaches during storm events.
- Educational Projects: Teach students about wave run-up and coastal dynamics.
- Disaster Preparedness: Plan for flooding risks in coastal communities.
- Conservation Planning: Assess erosion impacts on protected coastal areas.
Whether you’re an engineer designing coastal defenses or a researcher studying wave impacts, this calculator provides actionable insights, as supported by resources on Wave Run-up.
User Guidelines for the Wave Run-up Calculator
To ensure accurate results, follow these guidelines:
- Accurate Data Input: Use reliable data for significant wave height (m), peak wave period (s), and beach slope (tan β). Consult wave buoys, tide gauges, or beach surveys.
- Understand Parameters: Significant wave height is the average height of the highest third of waves, peak wave period is the dominant wave period, and beach slope is the tangent of the beach angle.
- Interpret Results: R2% (m) indicates the run-up height exceeded by 2% of waves: 0–1 (Low), 1–2 (Moderate), 2–3 (High), above 3 (Extreme).
- Regular Updates: Recalculate with updated data as wave conditions change.
- Consult Experts: For critical applications, combine results with professional coastal engineering assessments.
These guidelines ensure the calculator delivers precise results, making it accessible yet scientifically robust.
Scientific Basis of the Wave Run-up Calculator
The Wave Run-up Calculator is grounded in the Stockdon et al. (2006) model, a peer-reviewed framework for predicting wave run-up on sandy beaches. The model uses the surf similarity parameter (ξ) to distinguish between dissipative (ξ < 0.3) and intermediate/reflective beaches (ξ > 0.3):
- Significant Wave Height (Hs): Drives wave energy and run-up height.
- Peak Wave Period (Tp): Influences wave length and energy dissipation.
- Beach Slope (β): Affects wave breaking and run-up extent.
The formulas are:
- For dissipative beaches (ξ < 0.3):
R2% = 0.043 * (Hs * L)^0.5 - For intermediate/reflective beaches (ξ > 0.3):
R2% = 1.1 * (0.35 * β * (Hs * L)^0.5 + (Hs * L * (0.563 * β^2 + 0.004)^0.5) / 2) - Where
L = (g * Tp^2) / (2 * π)is the deepwater wavelength, andξ = β / (Hs / L)^0.5.
This model, validated against field data by Power et al. (2018), ensures accurate predictions for sandy beaches.
[](https://py-wave-runup.readthedocs.io/en/latest/auto_examples/plot_stockdon.html)Applications in Coastal Management
The Wave Run-up Calculator supports coastal management by quantifying wave run-up, which informs flood risk assessments and erosion control strategies. High run-up values indicate potential overwash or dune erosion, critical for protecting infrastructure and ecosystems. By identifying vulnerable areas, stakeholders can prioritize interventions like beach nourishment or sea wall construction. Organizations like Agri Care Hub can integrate this tool into broader environmental strategies to enhance coastal resilience.
Educational and Planning Benefits
Beyond engineering, the Wave Run-up Calculator serves educational and planning purposes. Educators can use it to demonstrate wave dynamics and coastal processes, engaging students with interactive calculations. Planners can leverage it to assess storm impacts or design resilient coastal communities, as highlighted in studies on micro-tidal beaches. The tool’s accessibility ensures it benefits both professionals and non-experts, fostering informed decision-making.
[](https://nhess.copernicus.org/articles/18/2841/2018/)Limitations and Considerations
While the Stockdon model is robust for sandy beaches, its accuracy may vary for gravel or mixed beaches, as noted in recent reviews. Users should calibrate inputs to local conditions, especially in regions like the Baltic Sea, where wave regimes differ. Combining calculator results with advanced models like XBeach-NH+ can enhance precision for complex scenarios. Always verify data sources and consult coastal engineering experts for critical applications.
[](https://www.mdpi.com/2077-1312/9/11/1185)[](https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0105437)Conclusion
The Wave Run-up Calculator is a vital tool for coastal engineers, researchers, and educators seeking to quantify wave run-up and assess coastal hazards. Its scientific foundation in the Stockdon et al. (2006) model, user-friendly interface, and precise calculations make it an invaluable resource for managing erosion, planning defenses, and educating others. By integrating data on wave height, period, and beach slope, the calculator delivers reliable results that support informed decision-making. Explore its applications with resources like Agri Care Hub and Wave Run-up to enhance your coastal management efforts.