Harbor Resonance Induced by Pressure-Forced Surface Waves

Using field data and numerical computation the relationship between a specific atmospheric perturbation and the long wave oscillation called "Rissaga" in the Ciutadella harbor, situated in the island of Menorca (Spain) in the Mediterranean sea, has been demonstrated. The transfer of momentum from the atmosphere to the ocean occurs when the atmospheric pressure oscillations travels at a speed similar to that of the generated long wave. That long wave is trapped in the shelf between Mallorca and Menorca Islands, generating a complex stationary system that has its energy peak at a frequency of 24 minutes. The Ciutadella cove, with a resonant period of 11 minutes is excited by the first harmonic of that outer wave, generating the Rissaga event.