Storm Surges around Australian Coastlines

Storm Surge Measurement around the coastline of Australia has not been undertaken consistently and hence values for design of marine structures must be computed from meteorological data. Information from various sources has been used to construct a picture of this sea level fluctuation for both tropical and extra-tropical regions. Until more precise data become available the values contained herein should serve consultants as reasonable storm surge levels for average and extreme conditions. The need for either field data or realistic computed values for storm surge around Australia's vast coastline has been highlighted recently by a statement of the National Committee on Coastal and Ocean Engineering. Nelson has also presented a proposal for installing recorders evenly around our shoreline. This paper should serve to illustrate the general distribution of this important variable when a national network is being planned and implemented.