The Tidal Exchange in Lake Shinji under Low Discharge Conditions

Abstract

The tidal exchange in Lake Shinji, an inner coastal lake connected to a lower one by a long narrow channel, was investigated under low discharge conditions. Fixed point observations at the cross-section in the uppermost reaches of the channel were carried out. Evaluation from the analysis of the velocity and salinity profiles showed that the tidal exchange was the dominant component responsible for the inward salt flux under normal tidal conditions. Moreover, longer term variations of water level with an amplitude superior to the tidal one were recognized in Lake Shinji, and were considered to be another factor of the water exchange between this inner lake and a lower one.