Analysis of Interannual and Seasonal Nearshore Bar Behaviour Observed from Decadal Optical Satellite Data in the Curonian Spit, Baltic Sea

A novel analysis of nearshore bar dynamics on the Curonian Spit reveals cyclic offshore migration with return periods ranging from 1.8 to 13.5 years—a first for this region. Using decadal optical satellite data (2011–2021), researchers quantified interannual and seasonal bar movements, finding offshore migration rates up to 9.7 meters per month and onshore rates up to 11 meters per month. Seasonal variability showed bars migrating faster during high wave energy (up to 12.9 m/month offshore) compared to low-energy periods. Clustering analysis identified regions with similar bar behavior, linking local hydrodynamics—wave climate and shoreline orientation—to morphological variability. The study demonstrates the potential of satellite-derived data for long-term coastal monitoring, offering insights critical for managing this dynamic UNESCO site.

Janušaitė, R., Jarmalavičius, D., Jukna, L., Žilinskas, G., & Pupienis, D. (2022). Analysis of Interannual and Seasonal Nearshore Bar Behaviour Observed from Decadal Optical Satellite Data in the Curonian Spit, Baltic Sea. Remote Sensing, 14(14), 3423. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs14143423