Numerical Analysis of the Velocities of Currents Forming in the Kerch Strait at the Motion of Domains of Higher Atmospheric Pressure

A three-dimensional ocean general circulation model (Princeton Ocean Model) along with hydraulic calculations were used to evaluate the velocity of currents from the Sea of Azov into the Black Sea, which form at the displacement of domains of higher atmospheric pressure from northern rhumbs. Flow velocity was analyzed at different sections in the Kerch Strait for meteorological situations with the highest rise of atmospheric pressure over period 1948–2017 according to data of NCEP/NCAR reanalysis. The possible increase in flow velocities due to the local deepening of the channel at bridge pillars and the compression of jets before the cross-section at Tuzla Island was determined. The available hydrometeorological data were used to show the recurrence of the cases of increase of atmospheric pressure above the Azov–Black Sea region in 2005–2017.