Abstract

The historical information compilation of currents, waves, and wind measurements has not been enough to appropriately describe the dynamics of Seno de Reloncaví. However, in spite of the low diversity of studies, the high current magnitudes registered at Chaica, Quillaipe and Paso Nao allow us to infer baroclinic currents strongly modulate the basin dynamics. Furthermore, the wind showed a high seasonal variability, and it is modulated by the coastline, thus being somehow responsible of the surface circulation and waves. In addition, the surface circulation (~ 10 m) is strongly modulated by freshwater input coming from Estuario de Reloncaví. Further, the maximum sea level amplitude was 7.64 m, with 7.46 m as an average, where the major sea level variability is linked to tide. Finally, in order to describe the wave behavior, the results of the empiric method of Massel and the numerical model of Mike 21 are compared. As a result, the wave behavior would be modified by the high spatial and temporal variability of magnitude and direction of the tidal wave.