Evaluating the impacts of sea-level rise on the Moroccan coast: Quantifying coastal erosion and inundation in a Atlantic alluvial plain (Kenitra coastal)

Abstract

As part of a broad assessment of climate change impacts in Morocco, an assessment of vulnerability and adaptation of coastal zones to sea-level rise was conducted. The Kenitra coast is socio-economically vulnerable to accelerated sea-level rise, due to its low topography and its high ecological and touristic value. In this study, the effects of future relative sea-level were evaluated for the low alluvial plain Atlantic (Kenitra coastal). This study area is potentially subject to coastal flooding due to its very low topography and because it is affected by a considerable subsidence. Using a GIS-based inundation analysis; the evolution of erosion that occurred in the study area, the potential physical vulnerability to accelerated sea-level rise was investigated, and the most vulnerable socio-economic sectors were assessed. Results indicate that 35% of the areas will be lost by flooding. In addition, the coast is progressive and regressive with an average rate at minimum (0.31 m/year) and at maximum (-2.39 m/year). Such results may help decision-makers in the implementation of preventive management strategies in the most sensitive areas.