Coastal ocean dynamics in the Gulf of Guinea using 3D modelling

During the last decade, it has been observed that most of the large coastal cities in the Gulf of Guinea, in this case Douala, have a quasi-annual periodicity of flooding. Consequently, a haphazard management of the development of the cities could prove fatal. Based on this observation, this study, which focuses on coastal risk management, aims to contribute to a better adaptation of urbanization. Thus, the oceanic modelling approach used in this study provides a more global coverage of the area, as well as a parameterisation of the environmental conditions. To this end, the SYMPHONIE coastal circulation model is validated on the basis of in situ and altimetric observations. In addition, the study of the tide, the sensitivity to forcings and the water levels were addressed. To do this, several simulations were carried out. This study shows an interesting approach for flood risk management. This approach aims at quantifying the contribution of each forcing, which is essential for a better predictive management.