Coastal sediment dynamics is strongly influenced by distinct agents such as waves, currents, tides and wind. Sediment transport pattern is associatedto the prevailing forcing mechanisms which will be typical for each study area. This investigation has collected and analyzed in situ hydrodynamics data (using anADP – Nortek AS Aquadopp (2 MHz)) at two distinct sites along the Vit´oria coastal area. Results have shown a significant difference in hydrodynamics and associatedinduced sediment transport patterns. Espírito Santo Bay showed a quite complex circulation pattern associated to the influence of cold front systems, being dominatedby storm waves that resuspend sediments that are swept away by the combined action of currents and waves. Vitória Bay, on the contrary, is dominated by tidalcurrents, with a strong ebb-dominated asymmetry. The results have shown that net transport direction is towards the mouth of the bay, indicating sediment exportwithin this system.
Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern through Mesotidal Channels System