Output details

A comparison of the main methods for estimating probabilities of extreme still water levels

Significance of output:

There are four standard methods for analysis of extreme sea levels which have been largely developed in the UK post the 1953 North Sea flood. However, there is currently no universally accepted method. Instead, different methods have been applied to different stretches of coastline around the world, making it difficult to assess the level of protection offered by defences. This paper assesses these methods and provides recommendations as to the best method to use. This supports design and helps to prevent catastrophic failures due to under-design or waste due to over-design.