A University of Houston civil and environmental engineering professor has developed an advanced model that tracks how pollution moves through Galveston Bay. The model offers insights into the ecological impact of extreme weather events and improves regional resilience.
As waves softly caress Galveston Bay and the Gulf breeze stirs a tranquil shoreline, many overlook the hidden currents of pollution and sediment moving beneath the surface. Dr. Hanadi Rifai, Moores Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Houston, has dedicated her career to studying this vital field.
Rifai, currently the director of the Hurricane Resilience Research Institute, has dedicated over 20 years to studying the dynamic ecosystems of Galveston Bay. Her most recent work presents a detailed model that illustrates the movement of pollution and sediment throughout the bay, particularly during severe weather occurrences such as hurricanes or flooding.
The model, recently introduced in her ongoing research, utilizes data on tides, currents, and salinity to monitor the mixing of freshwater and saltwater and the dispersion of pollutants within the intricate estuarine environment. By modeling these complex interactions, Rifai and her team seek to enhance predictions regarding the environmental effects of storms and bolster long-term coastal resilience.
“This model enables us to comprehend not just the destination of pollution following a storm, but also its duration and the potential harm it may inflict on ecosystems and human health,” Rifai explained.
Galveston Bay, among the largest estuaries in the United States, serves as an essential resource for fishing, recreation, and industry; however, it remains susceptible to pollution from runoff, industrial discharge, and oil spills. Accurately modeling pollution flow provides environmental agencies and local governments with a crucial risk assessment and emergency planning resource.
Rifai’s work contributes to a broader UH initiative to create practical climate change and disaster preparedness solutions. As climate threats grow more severe, Rifai aspires for her research to inspire more effective policies and enhance safety in communities along the Gulf Coast.
“This goes beyond merely assessing water quality,” she stated. “The focus is on safeguarding individuals and maintaining an essential natural resource.”
