Estimation of wave overtopping using integrated Delft3D and XBeach NH numerical Models: Case study of the Malecón, Havana, Cuba

• Published in: Ocean engineering Vol. 341; p. 122460
• Main Authors: Córdova de Horta, Daniela, Prats Rico, Daniel, Pardo Picazo, Miguel Ángel, Córdova López, Luis Fermín
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2025
• Subjects: Hurricanes; Numerical modeling; Wave overtopping; Numerical modeling; Hurricanes; Wave overtopping
• ISSN: 0029-8018; 1873-5258
• DOI: 10.1016/j.oceaneng.2025.122460

The historic Malecón of Havana, a designated World Heritage Site, is subject to annual impacts from severe hydrometeorological events, including cold fronts, hurricanes, and extratropical cyclones. These events pose significant risks to residents and result in considerable economic losses. This study presents an integrated modelling framework that leverages the Delft3D FLOW and WAVE modules in conjunction with the non-hydrostatic XBeach model. This hybrid approach enhances the accuracy of overtopping discharge estimations for the Malecon seawall, the primary protective structure along the Havana coastline. The proposed framework facilitates detailed simulations of wave impacts under extreme conditions, providing critical data to inform coastal risk management and mitigation strategies. Case studies of Hurricanes Wilma (2005) and Irma (2017), both associated with severe flooding along the Havana coastline, were analyzed. During Hurricane Irma, wave heights reached 8.25–10,80 m, compared to 5.50–7.50 m during Hurricane Wilma, with wave overtopping discharges of 15.02 m3/s∗m and 13.60 m3/s∗m, respectively. A sector-based analysis was conducted to evaluate wave behavior along the Malecón, identifying the most vulnerable sections based on average and total specific wave overtopping. The findings highlight the critical need to assess and manage wave-induced risks in exposed urban coastal areas, providing a foundation to enhance resilience and adaptability to future extreme weather events, particularly hurricanes. •A coupled Delft3D-XBeach model was implemented to simulate wave overtopping processes at Havana's Malecón seawall during extreme hydrometeorological events.•Hurricanes Wilma (2005) and Irma (2017) were analyzed, showing maximum wave overtopping discharges of 13.6 m3/s/m and 15.02 m3/s/m, respectively.•Subsections 2 and 5 of the Malecón seawall were identified as the most vulnerable, driven by steep bathymetry and interactions with high-energy waves.•The study achieved precise calibration of Manning's roughness coefficient (n = 0.012) and wind drag coefficients: A = (0.0015; 0 m/s), B = (0.003; 30 m/s), and C = (0.002; 60 m/s). The stationary third-generation mode in the SWAN model is recommended, with a JONSWAP coefficient of 0.038 m2/s3, enhancing the accuracy of wave height and storm surge predictions.•Results provide critical data for flood mapping and inform coastal risk mitigation strategies, improving urban resilience to future extreme weather events.