Model simulations of the drift and spread of theExxon Valdezoil spill

Abstract

In this paper the drift and spread of the Exxon Valdez oil spill that occurred on 24 March 1989 are simulated using a modified version of the Canadian Atmospheric Environment Service oil spill behaviour model. The model simulations show that the movement of the oil out of Prince William Sound and beyond is sensitive to the wind/ocean current combination. The net drift of the oil with wind and ocean currents taken into account is three to four times that with either wind or ocean currents alone. Although a 12‐d drift of the spill containing the higher concentrations of oil parcels is in very good agreement with observations, model simulations show the presence of oil farther to the south, albeit in lower concentrations. The lateral spread of the oil is also very well simulated by the model.