Kerkennah Island Could See All Its Depressions, Salt Marshes, and Low‑Lying Lands Turn Into Lakes, Warns Geology Professor
Kerkennah Island, Tunisia – The entire network of depressions, salt‑marshes and low‑lying terrain on the Kerkennah archipelago could be transformed into lakes, according to an urgent warning issued by Chokri Aïch, a senior university professor of geology and holder of a Doctorate in Earth and Environmental Sciences.
“This alert is based on scientific studies carried out by experts on behalf of the Ministry of the Environment,” he said.
Why Marine Flooding Is Accelerating
Professor Aïch explains that marine flooding on the island is driven by a combination of factors:
| Factor | How It Contributes |
|---|---|
| Naturally low topography | The island’s flat terrain offers little natural resistance to rising water. |
| Wind speed | Strong coastal winds push seawater inland. |
| Tidal effects | High tides amplify the reach of the sea. |
| Sea‑level rise | Ongoing global sea‑level increase adds a persistent baseline of water. |
Speaking on Diwan FM on Saturday, 21 February 2025, the specialist warned that the climate disturbances observed in Tunisia over recent years are expected to continue, further heightening the risk of submersion across the archipelago.
Urgent Preventive Measures Recommended
To mitigate the looming threat, Chokri Aïch calls for immediate, coordinated action:
- Install monitoring stations – Deploy real‑time sensors to detect early signs of marine surges and provide timely alerts.
- Raise ground‑floor levels – Rebuild or retrofit residential ground floors to sit at least 1.5 m above ground level to stay above projected flood heights.
- Construct protective sea barriers – Build robust offshore breakwaters or seawalls designed to absorb wave energy and limit inland water intrusion.
“These recommendations aim to protect local populations and limit material damage, as Kerkennah Island remains especially vulnerable to the combined effects of climate change and sea‑level rise,” he added.
What This Means for Kerkennah
- Increased vulnerability: The island’s geography makes it a hotspot for climate‑induced flooding.
- Economic impact: Agriculture, tourism, and fisheries could suffer severe losses if preventive steps are not taken.
- Community safety: Early‑warning systems and elevated housing are critical to safeguarding residents.
Stay informed – Follow updates from the Ministry of the Environment and local authorities for the latest guidance on flood preparedness and infrastructure projects on Kerkennah Island.
