Surge simulations for 1999 Orissa super cyclone using a finite element model

The Orissa super cyclone which crossed the Orissa coastal region near Paradip on October 29, 1999 proved to be disastrous. The strong winds, torrential rains with heavy rainfall and high storm surge associated with the cyclone caused havoc that resulted in the death of thousands of people, cattle and extensive damage to agricultural land, paddy crop, transmission lines, power supply, roads and buildings. In the present study, a fine resolution finite element model is used to simulate surges due to this super cyclone. The model results are compared with observed surges available from post-storm survey reports. Comparison of results show that they are in good agreement with the observed surges, and the finite element model can be used for real time surge forecasts.