RELATIVE SEA LEVEL CHANGE ALONG THE BLACK SEA COAST FROM TIDE-GAUGE OBSERVATIONS

Abstract. Potential sea level rise poses a significant threat to low-lying areas. Considering present and future of coastal areas, scientific study of sea level rise is an essential for adapting to sea level extremes. In this study, the relative sea level change in the Black Sea were investigated using data of 12 tide-gauge and 6 GNSS stations. Results generally indicated sea level rise along the Black Sea coast. Only at Bourgas tide-gauge station, a sea level fall was detected. A significant sea level change were not determined at Sinop tide-gauge station. On the other hand, at some stations such as Poti and Sile, ground subsidence contribution to relative sea level changes were observed.