Liquefaction potential of the Yukon Prodelta, Bering Sea

The Yukon prodelta is exposed to large storm waves propagating northward from the southern Bering Sea. Shallow water depths of the prodelta enhance the transfer of energy from the surface waves to the bottom. As the bottom deposits are cyclically loaded by large storm waves, potential decrease in their resistance to shear could ultimately cause liquefaction. A preliminary assessment of the engineering properties of Yukon sandy silt suggests that the prodelta deposits may be susceptible to wave induced liquefaction during severe storm events. In addition, erosion and are suspension of sediment in the prodelta may be intensified because of the liquefaction process.