Proposal of a littoral cell on the coast of Chile, ~34-37° S

Abstract

A littoral cell is potentially recognized along the Chilean margin, extending between the Biobío and Maipo rivers. This identification is based on published information, without additional oceanographic investigations. Northward sediment transport is driven by oceanic swell from the southwest and confined by submarine canyons that act as sediment sinks. Major Andean rivers supply most of the sand, inferred by others from composition and color. The proposed model highlights a long, tectonically stable littoral system sustaining coastal morphology and surf dynamics, analogous to Californian littoral cells. The south to north extent of the proposed cell, approximately 390 km, is relatively long compared to littoral cells at similar north latitudes in California and elsewhere.