Inter-comparison of HF radar wave measurements in the Malta-Sicily Channel

Abstract

The CALYPSO HF radar network is a permanent and fully operational observing system currently composed of four CODAR HF stations. The system is providing real-time hourly maps of sea surface currents and wave data in the Malta-Sicily Channel since 2012. The present work aims to compare significant wave height from HF Radar, numerical models and satellite altimeter data. This is the first time that this set of wave data are analysed since the four HF radars were installed between 2012 and 2015. Results suggest that CODAR HF Radar wave data are a reliable source of wave information even in case of extreme events, providing an avenue to improve and complete the offer of services deriving from the CALYPSO system. Comparisons of HF radar data with both numerical sea wave model and satellite altimeter data confirm agreement, in particular for radar measurements in the annular sectors within the central range-cells which are also characterized by a more reliable and homogeneous temporal behaviour.