Effects on wind straining and wind-driven circulation on salinity stratification in the Changjiang Estuary under typhoons(42306042)

The project titled "Effects of Wind Straining and Wind-Driven Circulation on Salinity Stratification in the Changjiang Estuary under Typhoons(42306042)," funded by the Youth Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation of China, was approved in August 2023. This research endeavor represents a pivotal investigation into the impact of typhoons on the dynamic processes and environmental conditions within estuarine systems. Salinity stratification stands as a critical aspect of estuarine ecosystems, exerting a profound influence on saltwater intrusion dynamics. Located proximately to Shanghai City, the Changjiang Estuary serves as a vital water source for the city. However, saltwater intrusion poses challenges to the reliability of this water supply, particularly during low river discharge periods in winter and, notably, during the flood season exacerbated by typhoon activity. Diverging from prior studies that predominantly examine the role of wind-induced mixing in salinity stratification and saltwater intrusion, this project endeavors to elucidate the contribution of wind straining and wind-driven circulation to these phenomena under typhoon conditions. Led by Li Linjiang, a member of AP-TCRC, the project spans from January 2024 to December 2026. The overarching goal is to deepen our comprehension of estuarine dynamics under extreme weather events, thereby safeguarding the drinking water supply for Shanghai City.

Fig1. Model-simulated salinity distribution in the Changjiang Estuary under typhoon.