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Project Code [2019-CCRP-MS.63]
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Project title
High-Resolution Coupled Atmosphere-Ocean-Wave Regional Climate Projections for Ireland
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG)
Project Abstract
The main component of the research involves simulating climate change and its oceanic impacts in Ireland (and Europe; CORDEX) at high-spatial resolution using coupled atmosphere-ocean-wave Regional Climate Models (RCMs). The research will utilise the COAWST and HCLIM coupled systems to provide high-resolution (~4km) future climate projections (to 2100) of met-ocean conditions including near- and off-shore winds, wave, tides and sea level rise in Ireland. The future climate will be simulated by downscaling CMIP6 global datasets under the full range of ScenarioMIP �tier 1� RCPs; SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0 & SSP5-8.5.
The novel approach of utilising coupled atmosphere-ocean-wave RCMs will enhance the current national RCM ensemble of atmosphere-only model predictions which do not provide direct information on sea level rise or changes in the ocean and wave climate. Furthermore, the coupled systems are expected to reduce the large uncertainty exhibited by the current RCM ensemble for fields such as precipitation, wind speeds and extreme storms and associated damaging winds thus allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of regional climate change. The research will provide policy makers and planners with high-resolution and robust projections of the offshore and onshore climate of Ireland and its impacts on mean sea level, storm surges and waves.
Grant Approved
�174,995.49
Research Theme
Ireland's Future Climate, its Impacts, and Adaptation Options
Initial Projected Completion Date
05/01/2022