Tidal Inlets and Washover Fans

Tidal inlets and washover fans are genetically related. The resulting feature is dependent upon barrier configuration, depths in the lagoon adjacent to the barrier, and the direction from which the storm surge came, either from the sea or the lagoon. Attack on barrier islands from the seaward side by waves overtopping the barrier will result in washover fans on wide barriers where extensive adjoining tidal flats are present. Inlets can be cut by this type attack on narrow barriers where no tidal flats are present. Storm surge from the lagoonal side, if channeled along tidal creeks, can easily cut inlets through a barrier.