Monitoring of coastal storm surge risks
Beyond the physical damage, the economic and human costs of storm surge can be profound, including loss of life, displacement of communities, and economic downturns in affected regions.
Coastal storm surge risk monitoring plays a critical role in improving the safety, resilience, and sustainability of coastal communities, while contributing to better environmental stewardship and economic stability.
Monitoring of coastal storm surge risks
Coastal storm surge risks are particularly sensitive to coastal dynamics, weather patterns, and environmental changes. To get a better understanding of the risks they are facing, local authorities can leverage satellite imagery and remote sensing technologies to consolidate critical information will them adapt to climate change and increase coastal resilience.
Assessing Coastal Erosion and Land Changes
Regular monitoring of coastlines using EO data helps assess the rate of coastal erosion, land subsidence, and other changes that can exacerbate the impact of storm surges. As the shoreline retreats, infrastructure located near the coast becomes more vulnerable to damage from waves, storms, and rising sea levels.
Vegetation and Ecosystem Health Monitoring
EO data can be used to assess the health of coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, dunes, vegetation, and wetlands, which play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of storm surges. The reduction of the natural protective barrier provided by coastal landforms increases the risks associated with coastal storm surges.
Analysis of changes in weather patterns
Long-term changes in weather patterns due to climate change, such as rising temperatures and sea level rise, can affect the frequency and intensity of storm surges. Analysis of historical data on weather patterns and past storm surges can provide insight into the frequency and severity of such events in specific regions. certain weather patterns and atmospheric phenomena are particularly relevant and should be prioritized for analysis. These include:
- Low-Pressure Systems
- Wind Patterns and Speed
- Sea Surface Temperature (SST)
- Tides
- Wave Patterns
- Atmospheric Pressure Patterns
Martial Humblot
