Physical vulnerability of Dakar region facing sea levels rising s in the context of climate change

Résumé

Abstract  The phenomena of coastal erosion and flooding are one of the most  certain proofs of the vulnerability of coastal areas to sea-level rise induced by climate change. These changes would disrupt cultural, social (recreational, spiritual), supply (fishing), and economic (transportation, tourism) services provided by the coastal zone. In this article, we are interested in the analysis of the physical vulnerability of the coastline of Senegalese capital. The method is based on the calculation of Coastal Vulnerability Index (CVI) of [1].

Thus, the results show that the values of this (CVI) vary between 3 and 30 with an average value of 17 for the “Petite Côte”, 20 for the “Grande Côte” and 5 for the “Côte Rocheuse”. This reveals that on this coastline of Dakar, 133.69 km long, 36% of this coast is classified as high risk of marine submersion and coastal erosion (Malika, Tivaoune Peulh, Niaga, Hann, Thiaroye, Mbao, Rufisque, Minam and Siendou), 29% at moderate risk (Déni Guédji, Guédiawaye, Parcelles Assainies, Cambérène, Golf, Bargny and Yéne) and 35% present a low risk (Yoff, Almadies, Ouakam, Fann, Medina, Dakar Plateau, and Toubab Dialaw).

According to the results, the most vulnerable segments of Dakar's coastline, so with high index values, are characterized by low relief, erodible substrate, sea level rising, shoreline retreat., and high wave/tide energies.