Numerical models sea surface wind compared to scatterometer observations for a single Bora event in the Adriatic Sea

We compare the sea surface wind fields forecasted by a Global Circulation Model (GCM) andthree Limited Area Models (LAMs) in an operational-like set-up, with the wind remotely sensed by the NASAQuikSCAT scatterometer. The comparison is performed for a single case of Bora wind in the Adriatic Sea, withthe purpose to understand the ability of the model forecasts in reproducing the mesoscale features captured bythe scatterometer, and to investigate on the suitability of LAM and GCM forecasts as possible forcing instorm surge models (SSMs). The performance is evaluated by means of statistical parameters regarding windspeed and direction showing that, at least in terms of classical statistical parameters, the GCM offer the mostadvantageous choice in terms of cost/benefit.