Spatiotemporal analysis of dune stabilization in the Kyzylkum and Karakum sandy deserts

A comprehensive analysis reveals that the Kyzylkum and Karakum sandy deserts, spanning approximately 500,000 km², have experienced low-energy wind conditions from 1950 to 2019, promoting dune stabilization. This study is the first to statistically evaluate the links between contemporary climate and dune morphologies in these regions, using Fryberger’s drift equations and Copernicus ERA5 wind reanalysis data. The findings indicate that 93% of the surveyed areas were subjected to low-energy winds, which facilitate plant growth and biogenic crust development, thereby strengthening dune stability. The spatial patterns of active dune morphologies are closely linked to wind direction, power, and variability, while stabilized aeolian formations show debatable disassociations. This suggests that winds in these areas have likely varied in strength but not in direction over time. The study provides a foundation for future research on climate change, dune mapping, and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating, offering insights into the region's paleo and contemporary environmental dynamics.

Petrović, M. Z., Blumberg, D. G., Orlovsky, L., & Maman, S. (2023). Spatiotemporal analysis of dune stabilization in the Kyzylkum and Karakum sandy deserts. Frontiers in Earth Science, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/feart.2023.1129360