Coastal flood assessment due to extreme events at Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico

Abstract

This paper examines the risk of coastal flooding in Ensenada and surroundings. Using topo-bathymetric surveys, wave and wind data, tidal time series and numerical modelling, a set of flooding maps were obtained to show the effects of sea level variability related to extreme events for different return periods. Results show that flooding in the north of the study area is low, since cliffs of up to 6 m height dominate the geomorphology, so no considerable threat to human assets is envisaged. The south of the area is different; flooding levels could reach human settlements and affect the Punta Banda Lagoon. The flood levels that affect the study area are those associated to return periods of 50 years, while those of return periods 2, 5, 10 and 25 years do not suggest considerable flooding. Thus, as long as there are no substantial modifications of anthropic origin in the coastal zone of Ensenada, the risk of flooding due to extreme events is low, although it is important to consider the erosion that these phenomena could be cause.