Seasonal changes in coastal dynamics and morphological behavior of the central and southern Changjiang River delta

Seasonal changes in sea level, tidal range, wind, riverine discharges, nearshore SSC (suspended sediment concentration) and bed-level of intertidal flat at 4 different sites were shown. In addition, the statistical relationships between the dynamics and the behavior of the sediment surface were examined. The average intertidal elevation seems negatively correlated to sea level while positively correlated to nearshore SSC. The effect of wind on seasonal cycle of average intertidal elevation is not evident although wind is an important factor governing short-term erosion/accretion events. The influence of riverine discharges on seasonal cycle of deltaic intertidal flats is masked by other factors. It is concluded that seasonality on mudflats is more complicated than on beaches.