Tidal bore

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A tidal bore (or just bore, or eagre) is a tidal phenomenon in which the leading edge of the incoming tide forms a wave (or waves) of water that travel up a river or narrow bay against the direction of the current. As such, it is a true tidal wave (not to be confused with a tsunami).

Related Topics:
Tidal - Tsunami

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Bores occur in relatively few locations worldwide, usually in areas with a large tidal range, and where incoming tides are funnelled into a shallow, narrowing river via a broad bay.

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Bores take on various forms, ranging from a single breaking wavefront - effectively a shock wave - to 'undular bores' comprising a smooth wavefront followed by a train of solitary waves (solitons). Larger bores can be particularly dangerous for shipping, but also present a challenge to surfers.

Related Topics:
Shock wave - Waves - Solitons - Surfers

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The word bore derives through Old English from the Old Norse word bara, meaning a wave or swell.

Related Topics:
Old English - Old Norse

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Rivers that have been known to exhibit bores include:

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