Salma Ezzahzi1, Ahmed Algouti2, Abdellah Algouti3, Giovanni Sarti4, Marco Luppichini5, Soukaina Baid6, Salma Kabili7, and Hayat Elkhounaijri8
1 Cadi Ayyad University, Geoscience Geotourism Natural Hazards and Remote Sensing Laboratory (2GRNT), Department of Geology, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Marrakech, Morocco
2 Department of Geology, University of Cadi Ayyad, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, GEOBASSMA Laboratory, Marrakesh, Morocco
3 Department of Geology, University of Cadi Ayyad, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, GEOBASSMA Laboratory, Marrakesh, Morocco
4 Department of Earth Sciences, University of Pisa, Via S. Maria, 53, 56126 Pisa, Italy
5 Department of Earth Sciences, University of Pisa, Via S. Maria, 53, 56126 Pisa, Italy
6 Cadi Ayyad University, Geoscience Geotourism Natural Hazards and Remote Sensing Laboratory (2GRNT), Department of Geology, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Marrakech, Morocco
7 Cadi Ayyad University, Geoscience Geotourism Natural Hazards and Remote Sensing Laboratory (2GRNT), Department of Geology, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Marrakech, Morocco
8 Cadi Ayyad University, Geoscience Geotourism Natural Hazards and Remote Sensing Laboratory (2GRNT), Department of Geology, Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Marrakech, Morocco
Original language: English
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Abstract
This study explores the morphological evolution of the Oued Tensift estuary and the Souiria Laqdima beach over the period 1985–2023, focusing on the impacts of natural and anthropogenic factors, particularly extreme events such as the 2014 floods. By utilizing a combination of diachronic satellite imagery analysis and shoreline mapping through CoastSat software, we identified critical patterns of erosion and accretion, highlighting the vulnerability of these coastal systems to both natural processes and human intervention. The study reveals that coastal changes are not only driven by hydrodynamic forces, such as tidal activity and sediment transport, but are also exacerbated by increasing urbanization near the estuary. The findings underscore the necessity for adaptive and integrated coastal management strategies that consider both immediate risks and long-term environmental pressures, particularly in light of climate change and rising sea levels. Our research offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics governing coastal systems and provides a solid framework for sustainable planning and decision-making to enhance the resilience of these fragile environments.
Author Keywords: Coastal dynamics, Shoreline evolution, Oued Tensift estuary, Erosion and accretion, Diachronic analysis, Coastal management.
