What is it about?
This study examines the impact of storms on the northern Yucatan Peninsula, including hurricanes and Central American cold surges (known as Nortes). The region is vulnerable to coastal flooding due to its low-lying areas and coastal development. The research assesses the storm's impact on the northern coast and investigates the role of sand dunes in mitigating the effects. Numerical models and LIDAR data are used to analyze the nearshore hydrodynamics, beach-dune characteristics, and spatiotemporal variability of storm impacts. The study compares the impact regimes of hurricanes and Nortes and identifies the influence of coastal infrastructure on the severity of storm impacts.
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Why is it important?
Understanding the storm's impact on the northern Yucatan Peninsula is crucial due to the region's susceptibility to extreme events and coastal flooding. With hurricanes and Nortes being common occurrences, assessing their effects helps in developing effective coastal management strategies and mitigating risks to infrastructure, communities, and ecosystems. By investigating the role of sand dunes in providing natural coastal protection, this study highlights the importance of preserving and restoring these dunes to enhance the resilience of the Yucatan coast. The findings can inform decision-makers, urban planners, and coastal managers in implementing measures to protect the coastline and mitigate the impact of storms on the northern Yucatan Peninsula.
Perspectives
Our research sheds light on the different storm types and their effects on the coastal region, emphasizing the crucial role of sand dunes in providing natural protection. The findings highlight the need for coastal dune preservation and resilient coastal management strategies to mitigate the impacts of hurricanes and cold surges. Our study provides valuable insights for policymakers and coastal managers, guiding efforts to safeguard communities and maintain the ecological integrity of this vulnerable region.
Christian Appendini
Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Spatiotemporal Storm Impact on the Northern Yucatan Coast during Hurricanes and Central American Cold Surge Events, Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, December 2019, MDPI AG,
DOI: 10.3390/jmse8010002.
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