CGRG Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology
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Author : Abeysirigunawardena, D.S.; and Walker, I.J.
Date : 2004.
Title : Sea level response to climate change on the northern coast of British Columbia.
Publication : Association of Washington Geographers Spring 2004 Meeting at University of College of the Fraser Valley, April 23rd and 24th, Abbotsford, British Columbia.
Issue :
Page(s) :
Abstract
Impacts of sea-level rise due to global warming have prompted international concern. A coastal sensitivity assessment by the Geological Survey of Canada (Bulletin 505) identified NE Graham Island, Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands) among the most sensitive coasts in Canada due to low-lying topography, unconsolidated substrate and 'extreme' environmental conditions (macrotidal range, energetic wave regime, frequent high winds and storm surges). This region is reportedly experiencing ongoing sea-level rise of 1.5 mm/yr. Current impacts include coastline erosion (1-3 m/yr to 10s m in extreme years), storm surge flooding, infrastructure damage and navigation hazards. To date, research has focused on longer-term trends in mean sea level with less emphasis on shorter-term extremes. This paper examines historical water level data from Queen Charlotte City and Prince Rupert and provides a preliminary assessment of variability and trends. Extreme water levels occur due to regional manifestations of climate variability phenomena (e.g., 1997-98 El Niņo) and high storm surges driven by favourable meteorological and marine conditions. Longer-term trends show moderate rates of sea-level rise and differ between locations due either to shallow-water effects or variations in local tectonic setting. These results serve as boundary conditions for a larger interdisciplinary study of climate change impacts in the region.
Bibliography of Canadian Geomorphology