Storm chasing in Cornwall

A team of storm-chasing marine scientists have been braving the high winds and huge waves as part of an on-going study into coastal erosion in Cornwall. Waves in excess of ten-metres in height were recorded in the south west of the county near Porthleven by researchers at Plymouth University using their Rapid Coastal Response Unit. The unit – consisting of a customised van and trailer boasting state-of-the-art remote sensing and beach-monitoring equipment – has been measuring the impact of the pounding surf upon the gravel beach, which like many around the country, is considered a natural coastal defence, especially for protecting low-lying areas. With the high tides and stormy weather in November, the ‘perfect’ conditions have meant that the team, from the University’s School of Marine Science and Engineering, has been maintaining a 24-hour vigil. Principal Investigator Gerd Masselink said: “Gravel beaches are considered sustainable forms of coastal defence, but there is currently limited scientific guidance available to provide beach managers with operational management tools to predict the response of gravel beaches to extreme storms. “To properly record storm response, conditions before, during and after the storm need to be recorded. This means we have to head out at very short notice and then stay on-site for as long as it takes.