ClimateAugust 15, 2026

overwash

OH-ver-wosh

Definition

The flow of water over a barrier, such as a beach dune or sea wall, typically caused by storm surges or high waves during a coastal weather event.

Etymology

Derived from the English prefix 'over-' (meaning above or beyond) and 'wash' (the movement of water), it describes the specific action of water moving over land that is usually dry.

In the news

The article warns that as Hurricane Lala brings high surf, significant coastal infrastructure is at risk of overwash, which could damage or erode vulnerable areas along the shoreline.

Tropical Storm Lala causes power outages across Hawaii: 23k+ customers impacted

Read the full article ↗

KITV

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