The dependence of pollution patterns in the coastal waters of Lingayen Gulf on the prevailing winds is studied with the aid of a theoretical model. The model equations consist of the well-known vertically integrated hydro-dynamical equations and a mass transport-dispersion equation. The model equations are numerically integrated in order to simulate the pollution patterns corresponding to different prevailing winds. The source of pollution is assumed to be a marine outfall near Dagupan City. The simulations indicate that the highest concentrations along the shorelines of the city occur surprisingly when the prevailing wind blows from south to north (away from the city). Conversely, the lowest concentrations occur when the winds blow toward the south. The simulations show the high sensitivity of the pollution patterns to the prevailing wind direction. Therefore, the determination of the optimum location of a marine outfall should consider the wind as an important factor.
[Loyola Schools Review, 2004]