Storm Surge Analysis (EM 1110-2-1412), Chapter 1: Introduction

This chapter sets out the purpose and applicability of the manual, which gives guidance for computing storm surge for design of coastal projects. It covers the units and datums used, gives an overview of the manual, and explains the nature of tropical storms.

It then describes water level variations and how storm surge is generated, including surge on the open coast and the way it changes in estuaries. In shallow estuaries, for example, the upwind side can dry out while water piles up on the downwind shore, and surge in a converging section can be much higher than on the open coast.

The chapter also covers the theoretical considerations behind the methods that follow.

In this chapter

• Purpose
• Applicability
• References and Bibliography
• Units and Datums
• Overview of the Manual
• Nature of Tropical Storms
• Water Level Variations
• Storm Surge Generation Processes
• Storm Surge on the Open Coast
• Modification of Storm Surge
• Theoretical Considerations