Potential alteration of fjordal circulation due to a large floating structure-Numerical investigation with application to Hood Canal basin in Puget Sound

▸ A new hypothesis that a large floating structure could alter circulation in an inland fjord is presented. ▸ Analytical solution in a closed form was derived and used along with numerical sensitivity tests to demonstrate that that blockage of surface outflow would result in alteration of vertical velocity profiles and stratification. ▸ Simulation of the existing floating bridge on Hood Canal fjord was conducted to bring to light the possibility of 8-13% increase in residence time in the basin.