Observing the tidal pulse of rivers from wide-swath satellite altimetry

This article highlights the significance of understanding tidal dynamics in coastal rivers, which are crucial for navigation, flood management, ecological health, and water security. Advances in satellite altimetry combined with numerical modeling are now enabling more accurate, global monitoring of tides, improving our ability to predict and mitigate coastal and riverine impacts. This progress is vital for enhancing coastal resilience and sustainable resource management in the face of climate change.

• Satellite altimetry enables near 1 cm accuracy in tidal predictions.
• Understanding tidal extent is key for managing coastal flooding and ecological health.
• Global tidal monitoring has been limited but is improving with new technological approaches.