veetõusud

Veetõusud is an Estonian term that translates to "water rising" or "tide" in English. It refers to the natural phenomenon of the sea level increasing and decreasing cyclically. While often used interchangeably with "tide," veetõusud in a broader sense can encompass not just lunar tides but also other influences on water levels.

The primary driver of veetõusud, specifically tidal variations, is the gravitational pull of the Moon and, to a lesser extent, the Sun. These celestial bodies exert a force on Earth's oceans, causing them to bulge on the sides facing and opposite them. As the Earth rotates, different locations pass through these bulges, resulting in high tides and low tides. The amplitude and timing of these veetõusud are influenced by factors such as the shape of the coastline, the depth of the water, and local wind conditions.

Beyond the regular tidal cycles, veetõusud can also describe more general increases in water levels. This can include storm surges, where strong winds push water towards the shore, or long-term sea-level rise due to climate change. In some contexts, it might also refer to the flooding of rivers or lakes following heavy rainfall or snowmelt. Understanding veetõusud is crucial for coastal communities for navigation, fishing, and managing potential risks associated with inundation.