Welcome To MGIBlue’s Coastal Dynamics Modelling Laboratory (CDML)

In expanding coastal and oceanographic research and capacity at MGI, the Coastal Dynamics Modelling Laboratory (CDML) was established to disseminate information on coastal areas and, more importantly, how these change with time and under various conditions. The CDML is a repository for hydro-meteorological data, static and dynamic models that are important for understanding Jamaica’s inshore and offshore areas particularly along our ports, harbours, fishing banks, protected areas and beaches. Simulations range from simple snap-shots of current flow to animations of complex interactions between hydrodynamics, hazardous materials and ecosystems for forecasting the effects of contaminants such as crude oil, invasive species, algal blooms, thermo-dynamic plumes and chemical spills. The CDML is accessible primarily as a virtual lab, and is built and maintained by university researchers with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
  • Hydrodynamics

    Hydrodynamics

    Hydrodynamic modelling allows us to better understand how the ocean is driven by temperature, salinity and pressure changes, atmospheric exchanges, and interactions with the seafloor. The numerical model depicts processes of the physical ocean such as current flow, waves, and particle tracking.

  • Water Quality

    Water Quality

    Water quality data is used to ascertain the chemical, physical, biological and radiological characteristics of water.

  • Aquatic Ecosystems

    Aquatic Ecosystems

    Dominant marine ecosystems existing along our Caribbean coastlines are made up primarily of mangroves, seagrass and coral reef, as well as salt marshes, intertidal zones, estuaries and lagoons. These systems act as natural filters of land-based nutrients, buffer storm effects and provide nurseries for marine life.

  • Coastal Hazards

    Coastal Hazards

    Jamaica is vulnerable to multiple types of natural hazards. Among these are earthquakes, tsunami, and floods by hurricanes storm surges.