Aeolian sand transport along beaches

Abstract

Storm‐generated ephemeral transverse sand ridges were observed developing along the beach fronting Sir Richard Peninsula, South Australia during 25 March 1984. The ridges displayed a mean height of 10 cm and a wavelength of 12 m; their breadth was approximately 2 m, and length varied with beach width but ranged up to 40 m over 10 km of coastline. The steeper sides of the ridges faced upwind due to erosion after initial ridge development. Damp sand in the swales inhibited wind scour and restricted sand supply, but provided a firm substrate over which the sand could saltate. Approximately 5000 m³ of sand were incorporated into the ridges by westerly winds blowing at velocities between 45 and 69 km/hr. This observation emphasises the role of alongshore winds in transporting beach sediments and developing essentially ephemeral forms, which might, nevertheless, be preserved in the geological record. The significance of these forms varies with coastal orientation and local wind regimes.