The Influence of Wind on the Surface Layer of a Stratified Inlet: Part I. Observations

Abstract Observations are described in an experiment undertaken to determine the response of a stratified inlet to changing conditions of wind, tide and runoff. Time series of conductivity profiles taken in Alberni Inlet, British Columbia, show marked fluctuations in surface layer thickness that appear to be related to strong winds. The effect of an up-inlet wind is to produce a rapid thickening of the fresh-water layer at the inlet head which may persist for several days. Strong winds were also associated with significant changes in the intensity of stratification.