σ-Coordinates hydrodynamic numerical model for coastal and ocean three-dimensional circulation

A three-dimensional finite-difference hydrodynamic model has been developed using σ-coordinate for the vertical dimension. An explicit scheme for temporal integration and a staggered grid for spatial discretization have been adopted. The model has been tested against analytical or literature cases for wind and tide induced circulation. Results are in good agreement both with analytical solutions under idealised conditions and with results from the model of Shankar et al. (1996).