Hingatesse

Hingatesse is a term used in Western Australia to refer to the tidal rises of the ocean that occur at points of certain bays, particularly along the coastline of the state. These tidal rises can cause water to flood over the beaches and coastal lowlands during high tides, posing a risk to coastal dwellers and infrastructure.

The term is derived from the Old English words "hing" meaning "hook" and "tess" or "tide", and refers to the way in which the coastline is shaped, with the ocean water washing up into a hook or bay shape. This tidal range can be quite significant, especially during spring tides, leading to the flooding of coastal areas.

Hingatesse is particularly noticeable in places like Mindarie and Hillarys on the western coast of Australia, where the land rises gradually up to the coast and the bays are prone to flooding during high tides. The tidal range can be up to 8 meters in places, leading to coastal hazards for residents, businesses, and infrastructure.

Always to be planned for, the effects of hingatesse can lead to coastal erosion and damage to buildings and roads. As a result, tidal predictions, warnings, and mitigation measures are essential for those living near the affected coastal areas. Coastal authorities and weather services closely monitor tidal conditions and provide timely warnings to the local community during periods of high tidal risk.

The effects of hingatesse can be significant, and they are closely monitored by scientists, coastal management officials, and local residents, who have to plan and adapt for these events to minimize the impact on the communities and the environment.