Laboratory Study of Reef‐Lagoon System Hydraulics

Abstract

Laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate the influence of wind waves on ponding level, surf beat, transmitted wave characteristics, and beach runup of an idealized reef‐lagoon system. Independent variables included the incident wave conditions, depth of water at the reef crest, and width of the lagoon separating the reef from the shore. Narrow banded incident wave spectra representative of typhoon generated waves were employed in irregular wave tests and emphasis was placed on high wave conditions. Monochromatic wave tests were also performed. Deepwater wave characteristics and processes associated with wave groups were found to have important influence on the ponding water level and surf beat in the lagoon.