Abstract

The main factors of Terek delta channel network formation are considered. The results of complex monitoring of the delta are presented, including the land-based observations at the gauge stations, prompt analysis of the remote sensing data, and the field inspections of the present state of the main delta branch and its seasonal dynamics. The characteristic of the two recent catastrophic inundations is produced. The scales of seasonal vertical deformations of the channel bottom elevations are estimated. An intense development of the delta bar, regeneration of channel network, dried away in the1980-1990s, and the formation of a new channel network in the Terek delta lower zone are found.

Keywords: river delta formation, hydrological regime, sediments, channel bottom deformations, inundation.