Regularities in sea level rise impact on the hydrological regime and morphological structure of river deltas

Abstract

The problem of assessment of sea level rise impact on the hydrological regime and morphological structure of river deltas is discussed. Studies of the response of river deltas, which are among the most vulnerable natural objects, to the sea level rise has become urgent because of the global climate warming and the associated acceleration of the World Ocean level rise. Methods are described that can be used for the analysis, calculation, and prediction of sea level rise impact on submergence of deltas, propagation of backwater from the sea tides, surges, and salt seawater intrusion. Special emphasis is given to channel processes in delta branches, which accompany sea level rise, as well as to delta coastline erosion and flow redistribution among branches. In the course of research, due consideration was taken of the experience gained in studying the response of river deltas on the Caspian Sea coasts to the recent considerable level rise in this water body.