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Ann Gibbs

Geologist at the USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Science and Products

Photo of flood staff installed in Kwigillingok, Alaska

Alaska Flood Staffs

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) uses observations of flooding in communities to monitor hazard conditions and support research by the USGS and its partners into a variety of hazard processes in Alaska. Local observations of flooding at flood staffs are used to document flood elevations, improve flood models, and support floodplain management decisions.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Recovery Activities
Alaska Flood Staffs

Alaska Flood Staffs

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) uses observations of flooding in communities to monitor hazard conditions and support research by the USGS and its partners into a variety of hazard processes in Alaska. Local observations of flooding at flood staffs are used to document flood elevations, improve flood models, and support floodplain management decisions.
Learn More
A building lifted from its foundation by floodwater from Typhoon Merbok is trapped under a bridge in Nome, Alaska

Typhoon Merbok Disaster Emergency Recovery Efforts

Extreme storm events, such as Extratropical-Typhoon Merbok that hit the coast of Western Alaska in September 2022, are stark reminders of the devastating impacts coastal storms can have on Alaska Native community’s livelihoods and infrastructure. A chronic lack of environmental monitoring and technical assistance in rural Alaska present major barriers to communities affected by Typhoon Merbok...
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Recovery Activities
Typhoon Merbok Disaster Emergency Recovery Efforts

Typhoon Merbok Disaster Emergency Recovery Efforts

Extreme storm events, such as Extratropical-Typhoon Merbok that hit the coast of Western Alaska in September 2022, are stark reminders of the devastating impacts coastal storms can have on Alaska Native community’s livelihoods and infrastructure. A chronic lack of environmental monitoring and technical assistance in rural Alaska present major barriers to communities affected by Typhoon Merbok...
Learn More
High coastal arctic bluff with broken chunks, some that are ready to fall into the crashing waves, and some that have fallen.

Coastal Climate Impacts

The impacts of climate change and sea-level rise around the Pacific and Arctic Oceans can vary tremendously. Thus far the vast majority of national and international impact assessments and models of coastal climate change have focused on low-relief coastlines that are not near seismically active zones. Furthermore, the degree to which extreme waves and wind will add further stress to coastal...
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Coastal Climate Impacts

Coastal Climate Impacts

The impacts of climate change and sea-level rise around the Pacific and Arctic Oceans can vary tremendously. Thus far the vast majority of national and international impact assessments and models of coastal climate change have focused on low-relief coastlines that are not near seismically active zones. Furthermore, the degree to which extreme waves and wind will add further stress to coastal...
Learn More
Aerial photograph looking at an eroding bluff on an arctic island with ponded water, green grass, and dying grass.

Climate impacts to Arctic coasts

The Arctic region is warming faster than anywhere else in the nation. Understanding the rates and causes of coastal change in Alaska is needed to identify and mitigate hazards that might affect people and animals that call Alaska home.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Climate impacts to Arctic coasts

Climate impacts to Arctic coasts

The Arctic region is warming faster than anywhere else in the nation. Understanding the rates and causes of coastal change in Alaska is needed to identify and mitigate hazards that might affect people and animals that call Alaska home.
Learn More
View of a coastline from a camera that changes every half hour, with calm waters and tundra in foreground.

Using Video Imagery to Study Wave Dynamics: Unalakleet

USGS scientists installed two video cameras atop a windmill tower in Unalakleet, Alaska, pointing westward over Norton Sound, to observe and quantify coastal processes such as wave run-up, development of rip channels, bluff erosion, and movement of sandbars and ice floes.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Using Video Imagery to Study Wave Dynamics: Unalakleet

Using Video Imagery to Study Wave Dynamics: Unalakleet

USGS scientists installed two video cameras atop a windmill tower in Unalakleet, Alaska, pointing westward over Norton Sound, to observe and quantify coastal processes such as wave run-up, development of rip channels, bluff erosion, and movement of sandbars and ice floes.
Learn More
A camera system with two lenses mounted to a pole with wires running down the pole.

Using Video Imagery to Study Sediment Transport and Wave Dynamics: Nuvuk (Point Barrow)

Two coastal observing video cameras are installed atop a utility pole near the northernmost point of land in the United States, at Nuvuk (Point Barrow), Alaska. The cameras point northwest toward the Arctic Ocean and the boundary between the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas, and will be used to observe and quantify coastal processes such as wave run-up, bluff erosion, movement of sandbars and ice floes...
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Using Video Imagery to Study Sediment Transport and Wave Dynamics: Nuvuk (Point Barrow)

Using Video Imagery to Study Sediment Transport and Wave Dynamics: Nuvuk (Point Barrow)

Two coastal observing video cameras are installed atop a utility pole near the northernmost point of land in the United States, at Nuvuk (Point Barrow), Alaska. The cameras point northwest toward the Arctic Ocean and the boundary between the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas, and will be used to observe and quantify coastal processes such as wave run-up, bluff erosion, movement of sandbars and ice floes...
Learn More
Filter Total Items: 20

CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Golovin- Coastal Alaska CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Golovin- Coastal Alaska

This data release consists of flood hazard maps from compound coastal hazards--specifically sea-level rise (SLR) and projected coastal storms. Products include projected flood depths, flood extents including uncertainties, water elevations, wave heights, velocity hazard, and erosion and sedimentation pattern. These are generated using a suite of numerical models driven by outputs from...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Golovin- Coastal Alaska CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Golovin- Coastal Alaska

This data release consists of flood hazard maps from compound coastal hazards--specifically sea-level rise (SLR) and projected coastal storms. Products include projected flood depths, flood extents including uncertainties, water elevations, wave heights, velocity hazard, and erosion and sedimentation pattern. These are generated using a suite of numerical models driven by outputs from...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Unalakleet - Coastal Alaska CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Unalakleet - Coastal Alaska

This data release consists of flood hazard maps from compound coastal hazards--specifically sea-level rise (SLR) and projected coastal storms. Products include projected flood depths, flood extents including uncertainties, water elevations, wave heights, velocity hazard, and erosion and sedimentation pattern. These are generated using a suite of numerical models driven by outputs from...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Underwater imagery and classifications of the substrate and coral reef habitat on the Kona coast of the Island of Hawai`i, from 2003, 2004, and 2022 Underwater imagery and classifications of the substrate and coral reef habitat on the Kona coast of the Island of Hawai`i, from 2003, 2004, and 2022

Images of the seafloor off the Kona coast of the Island of Hawai`i were collected by the United States Geological Survey in 2003, 2004, and 2022, during field activities A803HW, A204HW, A604HW, and 2022-615-FA. The images were acquired in cooperation with the National Park Service, primarily in the waters off Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, Pu`ukohola Heiau National Historic...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Utqiagvik - Coastal Alaska CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Utqiagvik - Coastal Alaska

This data release consists of flood hazard maps from compound coastal hazards--specifically sea-level rise (SLR) and projected coastal storms. Products include projected flood depths, flood extents including uncertainties, water elevations, wave heights, velocity hazards, and erosion and sedimentation patterns. These are generated using a suite of numerical models driven by outputs from...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Elim - Coastal Alaska CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Elim - Coastal Alaska

This data release consists of flood hazard maps from compound coastal hazards--specifically sea-level rise (SLR) and projected coastal storms. Products include projected flood depths, flood extents including uncertainties, water elevations, wave heights, velocity hazards, and erosion and sedimentation patterns. These are generated using a suite of numerical models driven by outputs from...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Atlas of natural hazards in the Hawaiian coastal zone Atlas of natural hazards in the Hawaiian coastal zone

The purpose of this report is to communicate to citizens and regulatory authorities the history and relative intensity of coastal hazards in Hawaii. This information is the key to the wise use and management of coastal resources. The information contained in this document,we hope,will improve the ability of Hawaiian citizens and visitors to safely enjoy the coast and provide a strong...
Background of coral reefs beneath waves. Overlaid with photo of white woman with light brown hair. Audio description icon in Background of coral reefs beneath waves. Overlaid with photo of white woman with light brown hair. Audio description icon in
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist (AD)
Background of coral reefs beneath waves. Overlaid with photo of white woman with light brown hair. Audio description icon in

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist (AD)

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist (AD)

Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Communications and Publishing
Background of coral reefs beneath waves. Overlaid with photo of white woman with light brown hair. Audio description icon in

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist (AD)

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist (AD)

Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Communications and Publishing
Background of a coral reef beneath waves. Overlaid with a photo of a white woman with light brown hair. Background of a coral reef beneath waves. Overlaid with a photo of a white woman with light brown hair.
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist
Background of a coral reef beneath waves. Overlaid with a photo of a white woman with light brown hair.

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist

Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Communications and Publishing
Background of a coral reef beneath waves. Overlaid with a photo of a white woman with light brown hair.

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist

Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Communications and Publishing
Man holds a piece of cylindrical steel attached to a handle and thick chain, on the stern of a moving boat.
Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment
Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment
Man holds a piece of cylindrical steel attached to a handle and thick chain, on the stern of a moving boat.

Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment

Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment

USGS geologist Bruce Richmond prepares to deploy a pipe dredge that will be dragged along the seabed to collect sediment.

By
Natural Hazards, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Man holds a piece of cylindrical steel attached to a handle and thick chain, on the stern of a moving boat.

Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment

Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment

USGS geologist Bruce Richmond prepares to deploy a pipe dredge that will be dragged along the seabed to collect sediment.

By
Natural Hazards, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Aerial photograph looking at an eroding bluff on an arctic island with ponded water, green grass, and dying grass.
Pingok Island, Alaska
Pingok Island, Alaska
Aerial photograph looking at an eroding bluff on an arctic island with ponded water, green grass, and dying grass.

Pingok Island, Alaska

Pingok Island, Alaska

Photograph of Pingok Island, Alaska, reveals physical features of a changing Arctic: collapsing bluffs, salt-killed tundra (lighter brown near the bluff edge), and drained thermokarst lakes (rust-colored depressions).

By
Natural Hazards, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Aerial photograph looking at an eroding bluff on an arctic island with ponded water, green grass, and dying grass.

Pingok Island, Alaska

Pingok Island, Alaska

Photograph of Pingok Island, Alaska, reveals physical features of a changing Arctic: collapsing bluffs, salt-killed tundra (lighter brown near the bluff edge), and drained thermokarst lakes (rust-colored depressions).

By
Natural Hazards, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Filter Total Items: 47

Comparisons of shoreline positions from satellite-derived and traditional field- and remote-sensing techniques Comparisons of shoreline positions from satellite-derived and traditional field- and remote-sensing techniques

Satellite-derived shorelines (SDS) have the potential to help researchers answer critical coastal science questions and support work to predict coastal change by filling in the spatial and temporal gaps present in current field-based and remote-sensing data collection methods. The U.S. Geological Survey conducted comparison analyses of traditionally sourced shorelines and SDS in diverse...
Authors
Andrea C. O'Neill, Sharon F. Batiste, Daniel D. Buscombe, Joseph Burgess, Kara S. Doran, Ann E. Gibbs, Rachel E. Henderson, Julia L. Heslin, Catherine N. Janda, Mark A. Lundine, Joseph F. Terrano, Jonathan A. Warrick, Kathryn M. Weber
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center

Benthic habitat map of Olowalu Reef, Maui, Hawaii—Geomorphological structure, biological cover, and geologic zonation determined with spectral, lidar, and acoustic data Benthic habitat map of Olowalu Reef, Maui, Hawaii—Geomorphological structure, biological cover, and geologic zonation determined with spectral, lidar, and acoustic data

The fringing coral reef off Olowalu, Maui, Hawaii, has been identified as a local conservation priority site. In 2007, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) produced a benthic habitat map of the Hawaiian Islands that was used as a foundation for this study. To support place-based management of the reef in the future, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) mapped the...
Authors
Liana N. Heberer, Kristen C. Alkins, Curt D. Storlazzi, Susan A. Cochran, Ann E. Gibbs, Russell Sparks, Kristy Stone, Itana Silva, Tatiana Martinez, Cole Peralto, Arielle S. Levine, Douglas A. Stow, Jillian Maloney
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Database and time series of nearshore waves along the Alaskan coast from the United States-Canada border to the Bering Sea Database and time series of nearshore waves along the Alaskan coast from the United States-Canada border to the Bering Sea

Alaska’s Arctic coast has some of the highest coastal erosion rates in the world, primarily driven by permafrost thaw and increasing wave energy. In the Arctic, a warming climate is driving sea ice cover to decrease in space and time. A lack of long-term observational wave data along Alaska’s coast challenges the ability of engineers, scientists, and planners to study and address threats...
Authors
Anita C. Engelstad, Li H. Erikson, Borja G. Reguero, Ann E. Gibbs, Kees Nederhoff
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Variability in terrestrial characteristics and erosion rates on the Alaskan Beaufort Sea coast Variability in terrestrial characteristics and erosion rates on the Alaskan Beaufort Sea coast

Arctic coastal environments are eroding and rapidly changing. A lack of pan-Arctic observations limits our ability to understand controls on coastal erosion rates across the entire Arctic region. Here, we capitalize on an abundance of geospatial and remotely sensed data, in addition to model output, from the North Slope of Alaska to identify relationships between historical erosion rates...
Authors
Anastasia Piliouras, Benjamin M. Jones, Tabatha Clevenger, Ann E. Gibbs, Joel C. Rowland
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Barrier islands and spits of northern Alaska: Decadal scale morphological change Barrier islands and spits of northern Alaska: Decadal scale morphological change

Arctic barrier islands and spits are dynamic features influenced by a variety of oceanographic, geologic, and environmental factors. Many serve as habitat and protection for native species and shelter the coast from waves and storms that can flood and erode the adjacent mainland. This paper summarizes results of a study documenting changes to barrier morphology along the North Slope...
Authors
Ann E. Gibbs, Li H. Erikson, Anna I Hamilton
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Measuring and attributing sedimentary and geomorphic responses to modern climate change: Challenges and opportunities Measuring and attributing sedimentary and geomorphic responses to modern climate change: Challenges and opportunities

Today, climate change is affecting virtually all terrestrial and nearshore settings. This commentary discusses the challenges of measuring climate-driven physical landscape responses to modern global warming: short and incomplete data records, land use and seismicity masking climatic effects, biases in data availability and resolution, and signal attenuation in sedimentary systems. We...
Authors
Amy E. East, Jonathan A. Warrick, Dongfeng Li, Joel B. Sankey, Margaret H. Redsteer, Ann E. Gibbs, Jeffrey A. Coe, Patrick L. Barnard
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Southwest Biological Science Center

Non-USGS Publications**

D'Antonio, N.L., and Gibbs, A.E., 2016, Still-image frame grabs and benthic habitat interpretation of underwater video footage, March 2014, Faga`alu Bay, Tutuila Island, American Samoa: U.S. Geological Survey data release, doi: 10.5066/F7N877V1.
Gibbs, A.E., and D'Antonio, N.L., 2016, Underwater video footage, March 2014, Faga`alu Bay, Tutuila Island, American Samoa: data release, doi: 10.5066/F70V89V6.

**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.

Coastal Change in Alaska Coastal Change in Alaska

Alaska's north coast has been home to indigenous communities for centuries. Changing coastlines threaten important infrastructure and historic sites that support indigenous communities. Changing coastlines also can potentially reduce habitat for Arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, shorebirds, and walruses. Oil- and gas-related development sites and U.S. Department of Defense installations
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Filter Total Items: 14
Comparing Nearly 40 years of Satellite-derived Shorelines with Traditional Shoreline Measurements

Comparing Nearly 40 years of Satellite-derived Shorelines with Traditional Shoreline Measurements

A new USGS study compares nearly 40 years of satellite-derived shorelines with traditional shoreline measurements, finding that despite greater...

Read Article
Modeling Wave Dynamics to Assess Coastal Erosion Threats Along Alaska's Arctic Coast

Modeling Wave Dynamics to Assess Coastal Erosion Threats Along Alaska's Arctic Coast

In a recently published study, scientists from the US Geological Survey (USGS), University of California Santa Cruz, and Deltares employed advanced...

Read Article
USGS aids storm response to Extratropical Typhoon Merbok in Alaska

USGS aids storm response to Extratropical Typhoon Merbok in Alaska

In September 2022, the west coast of Alaska was struck by Extratropical Typhoon Merbok, generating significant storm surge that caused severe flooding...

Read Article
Seven Decades of Coastal Change at Barter Island, AK

Seven Decades of Coastal Change at Barter Island, AK

The Beaufort Sea coast along the northern edge of Alaska is a place of extremes. Home to the northernmost year-round settlements in the United States...

Read Article
Tracking Changes to Barrier Islands in the Arctic

Tracking Changes to Barrier Islands in the Arctic

Barrier islands and spits shelter coastlines from storms, protecting coastal communities and providing habitat for native species.

Read Article
Explore Coastal Change in Alaska

Explore Coastal Change in Alaska

A new geonarrative shows how USGS Coastal Change Hazards research is directly addressing the ability to understand, measure and project coastal change...

Read Article

Science and Products

Photo of flood staff installed in Kwigillingok, Alaska

Alaska Flood Staffs

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) uses observations of flooding in communities to monitor hazard conditions and support research by the USGS and its partners into a variety of hazard processes in Alaska. Local observations of flooding at flood staffs are used to document flood elevations, improve flood models, and support floodplain management decisions.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Recovery Activities
Alaska Flood Staffs

Alaska Flood Staffs

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) uses observations of flooding in communities to monitor hazard conditions and support research by the USGS and its partners into a variety of hazard processes in Alaska. Local observations of flooding at flood staffs are used to document flood elevations, improve flood models, and support floodplain management decisions.
Learn More
A building lifted from its foundation by floodwater from Typhoon Merbok is trapped under a bridge in Nome, Alaska

Typhoon Merbok Disaster Emergency Recovery Efforts

Extreme storm events, such as Extratropical-Typhoon Merbok that hit the coast of Western Alaska in September 2022, are stark reminders of the devastating impacts coastal storms can have on Alaska Native community’s livelihoods and infrastructure. A chronic lack of environmental monitoring and technical assistance in rural Alaska present major barriers to communities affected by Typhoon Merbok...
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Recovery Activities
Typhoon Merbok Disaster Emergency Recovery Efforts

Typhoon Merbok Disaster Emergency Recovery Efforts

Extreme storm events, such as Extratropical-Typhoon Merbok that hit the coast of Western Alaska in September 2022, are stark reminders of the devastating impacts coastal storms can have on Alaska Native community’s livelihoods and infrastructure. A chronic lack of environmental monitoring and technical assistance in rural Alaska present major barriers to communities affected by Typhoon Merbok...
Learn More
High coastal arctic bluff with broken chunks, some that are ready to fall into the crashing waves, and some that have fallen.

Coastal Climate Impacts

The impacts of climate change and sea-level rise around the Pacific and Arctic Oceans can vary tremendously. Thus far the vast majority of national and international impact assessments and models of coastal climate change have focused on low-relief coastlines that are not near seismically active zones. Furthermore, the degree to which extreme waves and wind will add further stress to coastal...
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Coastal Climate Impacts

Coastal Climate Impacts

The impacts of climate change and sea-level rise around the Pacific and Arctic Oceans can vary tremendously. Thus far the vast majority of national and international impact assessments and models of coastal climate change have focused on low-relief coastlines that are not near seismically active zones. Furthermore, the degree to which extreme waves and wind will add further stress to coastal...
Learn More
Aerial photograph looking at an eroding bluff on an arctic island with ponded water, green grass, and dying grass.

Climate impacts to Arctic coasts

The Arctic region is warming faster than anywhere else in the nation. Understanding the rates and causes of coastal change in Alaska is needed to identify and mitigate hazards that might affect people and animals that call Alaska home.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Climate impacts to Arctic coasts

Climate impacts to Arctic coasts

The Arctic region is warming faster than anywhere else in the nation. Understanding the rates and causes of coastal change in Alaska is needed to identify and mitigate hazards that might affect people and animals that call Alaska home.
Learn More
View of a coastline from a camera that changes every half hour, with calm waters and tundra in foreground.

Using Video Imagery to Study Wave Dynamics: Unalakleet

USGS scientists installed two video cameras atop a windmill tower in Unalakleet, Alaska, pointing westward over Norton Sound, to observe and quantify coastal processes such as wave run-up, development of rip channels, bluff erosion, and movement of sandbars and ice floes.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Using Video Imagery to Study Wave Dynamics: Unalakleet

Using Video Imagery to Study Wave Dynamics: Unalakleet

USGS scientists installed two video cameras atop a windmill tower in Unalakleet, Alaska, pointing westward over Norton Sound, to observe and quantify coastal processes such as wave run-up, development of rip channels, bluff erosion, and movement of sandbars and ice floes.
Learn More
A camera system with two lenses mounted to a pole with wires running down the pole.

Using Video Imagery to Study Sediment Transport and Wave Dynamics: Nuvuk (Point Barrow)

Two coastal observing video cameras are installed atop a utility pole near the northernmost point of land in the United States, at Nuvuk (Point Barrow), Alaska. The cameras point northwest toward the Arctic Ocean and the boundary between the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas, and will be used to observe and quantify coastal processes such as wave run-up, bluff erosion, movement of sandbars and ice floes...
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Using Video Imagery to Study Sediment Transport and Wave Dynamics: Nuvuk (Point Barrow)

Using Video Imagery to Study Sediment Transport and Wave Dynamics: Nuvuk (Point Barrow)

Two coastal observing video cameras are installed atop a utility pole near the northernmost point of land in the United States, at Nuvuk (Point Barrow), Alaska. The cameras point northwest toward the Arctic Ocean and the boundary between the Chukchi and Beaufort Seas, and will be used to observe and quantify coastal processes such as wave run-up, bluff erosion, movement of sandbars and ice floes...
Learn More
Filter Total Items: 20

CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Golovin- Coastal Alaska CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Golovin- Coastal Alaska

This data release consists of flood hazard maps from compound coastal hazards--specifically sea-level rise (SLR) and projected coastal storms. Products include projected flood depths, flood extents including uncertainties, water elevations, wave heights, velocity hazard, and erosion and sedimentation pattern. These are generated using a suite of numerical models driven by outputs from...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Golovin- Coastal Alaska CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Golovin- Coastal Alaska

This data release consists of flood hazard maps from compound coastal hazards--specifically sea-level rise (SLR) and projected coastal storms. Products include projected flood depths, flood extents including uncertainties, water elevations, wave heights, velocity hazard, and erosion and sedimentation pattern. These are generated using a suite of numerical models driven by outputs from...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Unalakleet - Coastal Alaska CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Unalakleet - Coastal Alaska

This data release consists of flood hazard maps from compound coastal hazards--specifically sea-level rise (SLR) and projected coastal storms. Products include projected flood depths, flood extents including uncertainties, water elevations, wave heights, velocity hazard, and erosion and sedimentation pattern. These are generated using a suite of numerical models driven by outputs from...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Underwater imagery and classifications of the substrate and coral reef habitat on the Kona coast of the Island of Hawai`i, from 2003, 2004, and 2022 Underwater imagery and classifications of the substrate and coral reef habitat on the Kona coast of the Island of Hawai`i, from 2003, 2004, and 2022

Images of the seafloor off the Kona coast of the Island of Hawai`i were collected by the United States Geological Survey in 2003, 2004, and 2022, during field activities A803HW, A204HW, A604HW, and 2022-615-FA. The images were acquired in cooperation with the National Park Service, primarily in the waters off Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, Pu`ukohola Heiau National Historic...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Utqiagvik - Coastal Alaska CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Utqiagvik - Coastal Alaska

This data release consists of flood hazard maps from compound coastal hazards--specifically sea-level rise (SLR) and projected coastal storms. Products include projected flood depths, flood extents including uncertainties, water elevations, wave heights, velocity hazards, and erosion and sedimentation patterns. These are generated using a suite of numerical models driven by outputs from...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Elim - Coastal Alaska CoSMoS-AK Modeled flood and erosion hazards at Elim - Coastal Alaska

This data release consists of flood hazard maps from compound coastal hazards--specifically sea-level rise (SLR) and projected coastal storms. Products include projected flood depths, flood extents including uncertainties, water elevations, wave heights, velocity hazards, and erosion and sedimentation patterns. These are generated using a suite of numerical models driven by outputs from...
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Atlas of natural hazards in the Hawaiian coastal zone Atlas of natural hazards in the Hawaiian coastal zone

The purpose of this report is to communicate to citizens and regulatory authorities the history and relative intensity of coastal hazards in Hawaii. This information is the key to the wise use and management of coastal resources. The information contained in this document,we hope,will improve the ability of Hawaiian citizens and visitors to safely enjoy the coast and provide a strong...
Background of coral reefs beneath waves. Overlaid with photo of white woman with light brown hair. Audio description icon in Background of coral reefs beneath waves. Overlaid with photo of white woman with light brown hair. Audio description icon in
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist (AD)
Background of coral reefs beneath waves. Overlaid with photo of white woman with light brown hair. Audio description icon in

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist (AD)

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist (AD)

Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Communications and Publishing
Background of coral reefs beneath waves. Overlaid with photo of white woman with light brown hair. Audio description icon in

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist (AD)

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist (AD)

Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Communications and Publishing
Background of a coral reef beneath waves. Overlaid with a photo of a white woman with light brown hair. Background of a coral reef beneath waves. Overlaid with a photo of a white woman with light brown hair.
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist
Background of a coral reef beneath waves. Overlaid with a photo of a white woman with light brown hair.

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist

Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Communications and Publishing
Background of a coral reef beneath waves. Overlaid with a photo of a white woman with light brown hair.

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist

Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist

Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Communications and Publishing
Man holds a piece of cylindrical steel attached to a handle and thick chain, on the stern of a moving boat.
Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment
Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment
Man holds a piece of cylindrical steel attached to a handle and thick chain, on the stern of a moving boat.

Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment

Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment

USGS geologist Bruce Richmond prepares to deploy a pipe dredge that will be dragged along the seabed to collect sediment.

By
Natural Hazards, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Man holds a piece of cylindrical steel attached to a handle and thick chain, on the stern of a moving boat.

Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment

Pipe dredge for collecting seabed sediment

USGS geologist Bruce Richmond prepares to deploy a pipe dredge that will be dragged along the seabed to collect sediment.

By
Natural Hazards, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Aerial photograph looking at an eroding bluff on an arctic island with ponded water, green grass, and dying grass.
Pingok Island, Alaska
Pingok Island, Alaska
Aerial photograph looking at an eroding bluff on an arctic island with ponded water, green grass, and dying grass.

Pingok Island, Alaska

Pingok Island, Alaska

Photograph of Pingok Island, Alaska, reveals physical features of a changing Arctic: collapsing bluffs, salt-killed tundra (lighter brown near the bluff edge), and drained thermokarst lakes (rust-colored depressions).

By
Natural Hazards, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Aerial photograph looking at an eroding bluff on an arctic island with ponded water, green grass, and dying grass.

Pingok Island, Alaska

Pingok Island, Alaska

Photograph of Pingok Island, Alaska, reveals physical features of a changing Arctic: collapsing bluffs, salt-killed tundra (lighter brown near the bluff edge), and drained thermokarst lakes (rust-colored depressions).

By
Natural Hazards, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Filter Total Items: 47

Comparisons of shoreline positions from satellite-derived and traditional field- and remote-sensing techniques Comparisons of shoreline positions from satellite-derived and traditional field- and remote-sensing techniques

Satellite-derived shorelines (SDS) have the potential to help researchers answer critical coastal science questions and support work to predict coastal change by filling in the spatial and temporal gaps present in current field-based and remote-sensing data collection methods. The U.S. Geological Survey conducted comparison analyses of traditionally sourced shorelines and SDS in diverse...
Authors
Andrea C. O'Neill, Sharon F. Batiste, Daniel D. Buscombe, Joseph Burgess, Kara S. Doran, Ann E. Gibbs, Rachel E. Henderson, Julia L. Heslin, Catherine N. Janda, Mark A. Lundine, Joseph F. Terrano, Jonathan A. Warrick, Kathryn M. Weber
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, Woods Hole Coastal and Marine Science Center

Benthic habitat map of Olowalu Reef, Maui, Hawaii—Geomorphological structure, biological cover, and geologic zonation determined with spectral, lidar, and acoustic data Benthic habitat map of Olowalu Reef, Maui, Hawaii—Geomorphological structure, biological cover, and geologic zonation determined with spectral, lidar, and acoustic data

The fringing coral reef off Olowalu, Maui, Hawaii, has been identified as a local conservation priority site. In 2007, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) produced a benthic habitat map of the Hawaiian Islands that was used as a foundation for this study. To support place-based management of the reef in the future, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) mapped the...
Authors
Liana N. Heberer, Kristen C. Alkins, Curt D. Storlazzi, Susan A. Cochran, Ann E. Gibbs, Russell Sparks, Kristy Stone, Itana Silva, Tatiana Martinez, Cole Peralto, Arielle S. Levine, Douglas A. Stow, Jillian Maloney
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Database and time series of nearshore waves along the Alaskan coast from the United States-Canada border to the Bering Sea Database and time series of nearshore waves along the Alaskan coast from the United States-Canada border to the Bering Sea

Alaska’s Arctic coast has some of the highest coastal erosion rates in the world, primarily driven by permafrost thaw and increasing wave energy. In the Arctic, a warming climate is driving sea ice cover to decrease in space and time. A lack of long-term observational wave data along Alaska’s coast challenges the ability of engineers, scientists, and planners to study and address threats...
Authors
Anita C. Engelstad, Li H. Erikson, Borja G. Reguero, Ann E. Gibbs, Kees Nederhoff
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Variability in terrestrial characteristics and erosion rates on the Alaskan Beaufort Sea coast Variability in terrestrial characteristics and erosion rates on the Alaskan Beaufort Sea coast

Arctic coastal environments are eroding and rapidly changing. A lack of pan-Arctic observations limits our ability to understand controls on coastal erosion rates across the entire Arctic region. Here, we capitalize on an abundance of geospatial and remotely sensed data, in addition to model output, from the North Slope of Alaska to identify relationships between historical erosion rates...
Authors
Anastasia Piliouras, Benjamin M. Jones, Tabatha Clevenger, Ann E. Gibbs, Joel C. Rowland
By
Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Barrier islands and spits of northern Alaska: Decadal scale morphological change Barrier islands and spits of northern Alaska: Decadal scale morphological change

Arctic barrier islands and spits are dynamic features influenced by a variety of oceanographic, geologic, and environmental factors. Many serve as habitat and protection for native species and shelter the coast from waves and storms that can flood and erode the adjacent mainland. This paper summarizes results of a study documenting changes to barrier morphology along the North Slope...
Authors
Ann E. Gibbs, Li H. Erikson, Anna I Hamilton
By
Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center

Measuring and attributing sedimentary and geomorphic responses to modern climate change: Challenges and opportunities Measuring and attributing sedimentary and geomorphic responses to modern climate change: Challenges and opportunities

Today, climate change is affecting virtually all terrestrial and nearshore settings. This commentary discusses the challenges of measuring climate-driven physical landscape responses to modern global warming: short and incomplete data records, land use and seismicity masking climatic effects, biases in data availability and resolution, and signal attenuation in sedimentary systems. We...
Authors
Amy E. East, Jonathan A. Warrick, Dongfeng Li, Joel B. Sankey, Margaret H. Redsteer, Ann E. Gibbs, Jeffrey A. Coe, Patrick L. Barnard
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, Southwest Biological Science Center

Non-USGS Publications**

D'Antonio, N.L., and Gibbs, A.E., 2016, Still-image frame grabs and benthic habitat interpretation of underwater video footage, March 2014, Faga`alu Bay, Tutuila Island, American Samoa: U.S. Geological Survey data release, doi: 10.5066/F7N877V1.
Gibbs, A.E., and D'Antonio, N.L., 2016, Underwater video footage, March 2014, Faga`alu Bay, Tutuila Island, American Samoa: data release, doi: 10.5066/F70V89V6.

**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.

Coastal Change in Alaska Coastal Change in Alaska

Alaska's north coast has been home to indigenous communities for centuries. Changing coastlines threaten important infrastructure and historic sites that support indigenous communities. Changing coastlines also can potentially reduce habitat for Arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, shorebirds, and walruses. Oil- and gas-related development sites and U.S. Department of Defense installations
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center
Filter Total Items: 14
Comparing Nearly 40 years of Satellite-derived Shorelines with Traditional Shoreline Measurements

Comparing Nearly 40 years of Satellite-derived Shorelines with Traditional Shoreline Measurements

A new USGS study compares nearly 40 years of satellite-derived shorelines with traditional shoreline measurements, finding that despite greater...

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Modeling Wave Dynamics to Assess Coastal Erosion Threats Along Alaska's Arctic Coast

Modeling Wave Dynamics to Assess Coastal Erosion Threats Along Alaska's Arctic Coast

In a recently published study, scientists from the US Geological Survey (USGS), University of California Santa Cruz, and Deltares employed advanced...

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USGS aids storm response to Extratropical Typhoon Merbok in Alaska

USGS aids storm response to Extratropical Typhoon Merbok in Alaska

In September 2022, the west coast of Alaska was struck by Extratropical Typhoon Merbok, generating significant storm surge that caused severe flooding...

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Seven Decades of Coastal Change at Barter Island, AK

Seven Decades of Coastal Change at Barter Island, AK

The Beaufort Sea coast along the northern edge of Alaska is a place of extremes. Home to the northernmost year-round settlements in the United States...

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Tracking Changes to Barrier Islands in the Arctic

Tracking Changes to Barrier Islands in the Arctic

Barrier islands and spits shelter coastlines from storms, protecting coastal communities and providing habitat for native species.

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Explore Coastal Change in Alaska

Explore Coastal Change in Alaska

A new geonarrative shows how USGS Coastal Change Hazards research is directly addressing the ability to understand, measure and project coastal change...

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