Storm surge

Definition

Storm surge is an abnormal rise in sea level that occurs during a storm, primarily due to strong winds and low atmospheric pressure. This phenomenon can lead to significant coastal flooding and erosion, impacting coastal ecosystems and human infrastructure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Storm surges can raise water levels by several feet, sometimes exceeding 20 feet in extreme cases, depending on the strength of the storm.
2. The combination of high tide and storm surge creates the most dangerous flooding conditions, known as 'king tides'.
3. Coastal communities are at greater risk for severe damage from storm surges due to their proximity to the ocean and often low-lying topography.
4. Storm surge forecasts are critical for emergency management, allowing for timely evacuations and preparation for potential flooding.
5. Damage from storm surges can lead to long-term environmental changes, such as erosion, habitat loss, and changes in coastal morphology.

Review Questions

• How does storm surge contribute to coastal erosion and changes in beach morphology?
  • Storm surge plays a significant role in coastal erosion by pushing water inland, which can wash away sand and alter the natural shape of beaches. The intense force of the water can remove sediments that make up beach profiles and reshape shorelines. This process not only affects the immediate area but can also influence long-term sediment transport dynamics, leading to changes in beach morphology over time.
• In what ways do changes in storm patterns and intensity impact the frequency and severity of storm surges?
  • Changes in storm patterns and intensity due to climate change have been linked to an increase in the frequency and severity of storm surges. More intense storms can generate higher winds and lower pressure systems, leading to greater surges. Additionally, as sea levels rise, even less intense storms may result in significant flooding due to the elevated baseline water levels that amplify the effects of storm surges.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of levees and flood barriers in mitigating storm surge impacts on coastal communities.
  • Levees and flood barriers can be effective in reducing the impacts of storm surges on coastal communities by acting as physical barriers against rising water levels. However, their effectiveness often depends on proper design, maintenance, and the magnitude of the surge. If a storm surge exceeds the height of these structures, or if they are breached due to poor maintenance or overwhelming force, communities may still experience significant flooding. Additionally, reliance on hard engineering solutions like levees can lead to a false sense of security, underscoring the need for comprehensive risk assessments that include natural solutions like wetland restoration.

Related terms

Hurricane: A powerful tropical storm system characterized by strong winds and heavy rainfall, capable of causing extensive damage and storm surge along coastlines.

Tide: The regular rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational forces exerted by the moon and sun, which can be influenced by storm surges during extreme weather events.

Floodplain: An area of land adjacent to a river or coastal body of water that is prone to flooding, especially during storm surges or heavy rain.