Generation and validation of the Chilean Wave Atlas database

- A reliable hindcast database was developed for the Chilean Wave Atlas (oleaje.uv.cl).
- Extreme wave accuracy is lower than for mean conditions.
- A multi-criteria performance score was defined to select optimal WWIII setting.
- Ardhuin et al. (2011) WWIII settings produce the best overall performance in Chile.
- Caires and Sterl (2005) error correction method significantly improved WWIII results.

This paper summarizes the calibration and validation of a 35-year wave hindcast database used to create the Chilean Wave Atlas. The hindcast was generated with the Wavewatch III wave model and consists of: i) time series of wave statistical parameters in a 1° × 1° grid throughout the Pacific Ocean; ii) spectral data at points latitudinally spaced every 2° off the Chilean coast. A comprehensive calibration process was undertaken in order to assess the performance of statistical parameters at different locations under normal and extreme conditions. A multi-criteria performance score was defined to select the optimal Wavewatch III model configuration. Few buoy records available and a broad set of satellite data were used in this process. A correction method was then applied to the statistical parameters in order to reduce systematic errors of the model. The Atlas showed better performance when compared to existing databases under normal wave conditions. However, the accuracy was shown to be lesser for the highest wave heights, consistently following the behaviour of other databases. This deficiency in the estimate of extreme values has important consequences in the design of coastal structures, and its improvement remains to be solved.