Author(s): Donald L. Forbes; Gavin K. Manson; Richard Chagnon; Steven M. Solomon; Joost J. Van Der Sanden; Tracy L. Lynds
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Keywords: No Keywords
Abstract: A 30-year record of sea ice in the Gulf of St. Lawrence (southeastern Canada) demonstrates quasi-periodic variation in seasonal total accumulated ice cover and length of ice season, with a statistically ambiguous trend to less ice in recent years. Ice inhibits wave generation and shorefast ice provides temporary shore protection during much of the winter storm season, although damaging ride-up and pile-up can occur during storm surges with onshore wind stress. The nearshore ice complex (NIC) typically includes an icefoot rampart landward of shorefast ice, which is stabilized by pressure ridges grounded on nearshore bars. With predictions of greatly diminished ice cover in future, the impact on shore stability will depend primarily on the sensitivity of coastal ice to climate change. The NIC is not represented in global or regional climate models simulating ice cover, nor is it covered by present monitoring activities. New methodologies and protocols are needed to document coastal ice features and extent.
Year: 2002