Modeling of Oil Migration in Puget Sound

The oil migration is simulated with a mixed Lagrangian-Eulerian model. The movement of the oil is modeled with Lagrangian point masses or Lagrangian Elements (LE). Time dependent dispersion is applied to the individual LEs. Eulerian current and wind fields are used to advect the LEs. Several scenarios for hypothetical spills in the Straits and upper Puget Sound are shown. The model accurately predicted the migration of the deisel oil spill at Ancortes, Washington. The model is general enough so that submodels for currents and winds developed for other regions can be easily integrated into the simulation.