Comparison of sea-level measurements using microwave radar and subsurface pressure gauge deployed in Mandovi estuary in Goa, Central West Coast of India

Abstract

Data from the radar and an absolute pressure gauge collected from Verem, Goa over a period of one year - January 2009 to May 2010 is used to carry out the comparative studies. The root mean square difference between the estimated sea level using radar and pressure gauge with atmospheric pressure correction is approx. 2.6 cm. The harmonic analysis over the two time series produces similar residuals and tidal constituents. The results from the study indicate the importance of concurrent measurement of atmospheric pressure along with sub-bottom absolute pressure gauge. The radar gauge has advantages over other type of gauges with regard to easy installation, maintenance and also sea level measurements are absolute and could be given precedence in future applications.