Spatio-temporal analysis of currents in the Abidjan estuarian bays

The analysis of current data collected during spring tidal periods in the Ebrié Lagoon estuary has allowed for an assessment of the spatiotemporal behavior of current speeds and directions. Results indicate that current speeds throughout the lagoon are generally low (< 1 m/s). Current speed typically decreases with depth. The average velocity profile over the water column exhibits a sawtooth pattern. Indeed, at approximately 2 meters depth in some areas and 5 meters in others, a significant decrease in average velocity is observed, followed by an increase before decreasing again regularly to the bottom. This variation is attributed to salinity fluctuations in the water column. The current regime is influenced by the shape of the area. At the entrance of Cocody Bay, currents are alternating. At the entrance of Bietry Bay and Banco Bay, they exhibit a rotary character with an alternating tendency. In Bietry Bay and Cocody Bay, the water column moves synchronously, whereas at the entrance of Banco Bay, there is vertical shear in the current.