Re: [Paddlewise] Effect of Barometric Pressure on Tide Height: Debunking the Myth

----- Original Message -----
From: "Dave Gorjup" <dgorjup_at_cox.net>

> Some have said that talking about the low pressure effects on sea state
are
> a myth and/or have minimal effect. An example of an approximately 13" rise
> in sea level for a one inch drop in mercury was given.
>
> While barometric pressure is not the most significant component of storm
> surge, it is certainly worthy of consideration.

Since I started the whole thing about barometric pressure affecting the
height of tides, I think I should pipe in again.  Barometric pressure was
one of a number of influences on the height of tides that was included to be
complete in terms of how tide (and currents) prediction tables are almost
always going to be off in terms of heights (and speeds) and timing.  The
reason is that you cannot predict a year ahead of time variables such as
wind speed, wind direction, rainfall, snow meltoff, and barometric pressure.
Also unpredictable or constantly changing are manmade structures that can
affect currents and even tides.  For example, here on the Hudson, a number
of piers have been pulled out and this changes how water moves along the
river.  As for tides, in a narrow passage such as the Kill Van Kull that
leads to Newark Bay, dredging operations can improve flow of water and tides
but they can also hinder it while the dredging is being done as the barges
and apparatus used during the dredging impede passage of water.

ralph diaz

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