Coastal HAzaRds Modeling lab
Our coastlines are home to precious ecosystems and provide vital services that support both marine life and coastal communities. These beautiful landscapes are shaped by complex physical, biological, and morphological processes, which are integral to our well-being. Over recent decades, there has been a noticeable increase in coastal populations, coupled with a rise in coastal hazards.
The Coastal Hazards Modeling (CHarM) Lab, led by Dr. Maitane Olabarrieta at the University of Florida, focuses on comprehending the primary factors leading to coastal erosion, flooding and water quality issues. This is especially pertinent during extreme weather events. The lab also delves into the study of water quality hazards. One of the lab's key goals is to enhance numerical models predicting coastal hazards, including flooding, erosion, and water quality issues.
In the CHarM Lab, both undergraduate and graduate students are actively involved in a holistic approach that combines advanced numerical modeling with fieldwork and remote sensing techniques. This interdisciplinary method allows for a richer understanding of how hydrodynamic processes and sediment transport influence and shape our coastal environments.