The Rh\u00f4ne delta shoreline is influenced by offshore winds from the N and NW (Mistral and Tramontane) and onshore winds from SSW to SE that generate storms (Fig. 1). Overall, potential aeolian transport is balanced between these wind sectors, but beach submersion and rainfall limit onshore transport (FIG 2), making N\u2013NW winds more effective (Fig. 3).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Along straight, E\u2013W eroding coasts, net aeolian transport is low, hindering dune formation. In curved spit sectors, orientation favors W\u2013N winds, promoting significant sand transport over long dry fetches<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spit tips experience cross-shore transport from inner shores to central and seaward flanks, which act as temporary sand storage before transport to the sea. Using Fryberger\u2019s aeolian drift concept (Fig. 1) and sand trap data, Gracieuse, Beauduc, and Espiguette spits lose approximately 12,000; 24,000; and 40,000\u202fm\u00b3\/year, respectively, to wind deflation. This sand is not lost but recycled locally via swash-induced beach accretion or moved alongshore to spit extremities. Shoreline orientation thus controls source and sink zones for aeolian sediment. Aeolian processes complement longshore drift and contribute to the dynamic morphodynamics of the Rh\u00f4ne delta spits. Overall, wind-driven transport plays a secondary but essential role in coastal sediment redistribution.<\/p>\n\n\n