Scientists have created the world's first comprehensive map showing how tidal fluctuations travel upstream through coastal rivers around the globe. The research reveals that tidal pulses extend far beyond coastal areas, affecting river sections located inland. These affected regions face heightened flooding risks due to the periodic tidal influences.
Previously, no global overview existed of where and how far tidal effects penetrate into coastal river systems. This knowledge gap made it difficult to assess flood risks in river communities that might seem safely inland but are actually influenced by ocean tides. The new mapping effort addresses this critical information deficit.