Potential wind erosion in Australia: A continental perspective

Abstract

AbstractSeasonal and annual patterns of potential wind erosion in Australia are mapped. Potential erosion is estimated by applying Fryberger's sand drift potential concept to 3 p.m. wind data from 732 stations. Contour maps for January, April, July and October show monthly total drift potential, resultant drift potential, and drift directionality. Stream line maps show resultant drift direction. Annual resultant drift potential and drift direction are also mapped.Monthly total drift potential is maximal in October and minimal in April. Highest values occur on the coast, in the Nullarbor Plain, and in Tasmania; lowest values are scattered across the northern inland. Monthly resultant drift potential is similarly distributed. Monthly drift directionality is higher in the north.Monthly drift direction stream lines mainly express the general circulation of the atmosphere. Some local disturbances occur over ranges; others have cyclonic form. Annual resultant drift potential stream lines are broadly confluent and have anticyclonic curvature.These maps of potential wind erosion, linked to measures of erodibility, provide a basis for studying wind erosion hazard in Australia.