What is a breaching inlet?

A breaching inlet is a coastal feature formed when a barrier island or sandbar is eroded or breached, allowing water from the ocean to flow into an estuary or lagoon. This process can create a new tidal channel, altering local hydrology and sediment transport. Breaching inlets can significantly impact coastal ecosystems and human activities, including navigation and fishing. Their formation is often influenced by storms, sea level rise, and human interventions.