A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Why are barrier islands are hazardous places to live?

Best Answers

While barrier islands can be built up by the action of waves and currents, they can also easily be taken away by waves and currents, given a change in direction, which can be caused by too much buildup. The currents blocked their own normal path. Barrier islands are also the first to be attacked if a storm comes up. read more

Building on a barrier island can also limit the island’s usefulness in protecting the mainland coast from powerful storms as well as eliminate important ecosystems, such as dunes and salt marshes. The best way to limit development on these fragile islands is probably not to outlaw it, though. read more

Some barrier islands can extend for 100 miles (160 km) or more. The islands are separated from the main land by a shallow sound, bay or lagoon. Barrier islands are often found in chains along the coast line and are separated from each other by narrow tidal inlets, such as the Outer Banks of North Carolina. read more

Encyclopedia Research

Wikipedia:

Related Types

Further Research