Effects of coastal structures on tsunami-induced flooding and hazard mitigation

Abstract

In this study, the author followed the approach of wave model in uniform mangrove trees with constant water depth and solitary wave height, varying only the porosity and arrangement of mangrove models in a 42m long wave flume. Videos of wave motions were captured during the experiment. Experimental data were plotted into time-series graphs and analyzed together with the captured critical wave motions to evaluate the effect of porosity and arrangement on solitary wave height reduction. On top of that, in view of the recent Japan Tsunami disaster, experiment on the effect of porosity and arrangement of city buildings on the solitary wave run-up and inundation onshore were conducted and results were analyzed in similar approach as mentioned. Lastly, debris movements brought upon by long wave were captured using video camera. Debris movement characteristics were briefly analyzed and discussed with an overview on the coastal planning strategies in an attempt to minimize Tsunami debris impact.