Variability Of Wind System And Its Expected Effects On Oil Slick Movement In The Arabian Gulf

Abstract

The marine data required for the models of the oil spill movement prediction (current and wind data) are discussed. The available water current data in the Arabian Gulf can not be used with confidence because of lack of the direct current measurements. The hourly wind velocity data at Doha Airport in the period (1984-1988), are analysed to determine the daily and monthly mean vectors. These results are compared with wind roses at the same station in different years. Assuming that wind pattern is similar in Qatari waters, the wind is expected to generate currents, carrying the oil spill, towards the S-SE direction, except in August and September where the wind driven current could flow towards W to SW. Suggestions are proposed to obtain accurate input wind data to get more reliable forecasting of oil spill movement.