What Is a Storm Surge?

Storm Surge

A storm surge is a dome of water pushed onto the shore by a storm. The surge is driven by the force of the wind and can be exacerbated by the shape of the coastline. Storm surge can cause extensive flooding and damage, especially in low-lying coastal areas.

What Causes Storm Surge?

Storm surge is caused by a combination of factors, including:

* Wind speed: The stronger the wind, the greater the storm surge will be.

* Wind direction: The direction of the wind can affect the direction and magnitude of the storm surge.

* Water depth: The shallower the water, the greater the storm surge will be.

* Coastal topography: The shape of the coastline can also affect the magnitude of the storm surge. For example, a concave coastline can amplify the storm surge, while a convex coastline can help to mitigate it.

How Can Storm Surge Be Predicted?

Storm surge can be predicted using a variety of numerical models. These models take into account the factors mentioned above to calculate the potential height and extent of a storm surge.

What Are the Impacts of Storm Surge?

Storm surge can have a devastating impact on coastal communities. The flooding caused by storm surge can:

* Destroy homes and businesses

* Damage infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and power lines

* Contaminate water supplies

* Lead to loss of life

Storm surge can also cause significant environmental damage, including:

* Erosion of beaches and dunes

* Destruction of marine habitats

* Loss of wildlife

How Can Storm Surge Be Mitigated?

There are a number of ways to mitigate the impacts of storm surge, including:

* Building seawalls and levees

* Elevating homes and businesses above the expected flood level

* Restoring natural coastal habitats

* Developing emergency evacuation plans

Storm surge is a serious hazard that can cause extensive damage and loss of life. By understanding the causes and impacts of storm surge, we can take steps to mitigate its effects and protect coastal communities.