The Evolution of Thermohaline Structure in a Closed Estuary

Abstract

Following the closure of the mouth of the Palmiet estuary in February 1988, the thermohaline structure was recorded at approximate weekly intervals. The evolution of the two-layer structure was studied and the mixing processes causing the changes were determined. Vertical diffusivities were computed and the qualitative understanding of the slow mixing rates in the deep pools was confirmed. The study indicates a probable summer condition of the estuary following upstream impoundment.