The described changes in the coastal area—cracked and moved earth materials, flooding, and extreme erosion—are likely the result of severe weather events, such as hurricanes or strong storms, which can cause significant coastal erosion and erosion of land near the coastline. Other possible causes could include:
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Storm Surge: High winds and low pressure associated with storms can lead to storm surges, which inundate coastal areas and cause flooding and erosion.
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Heavy Rainfall: Intense rainfall can result in flash floods and increased surface runoff, contributing to erosion and the movement of earth materials.
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Sea Level Rise: Over time, rising sea levels due to climate change can lead to increased flooding and erosion along coastlines.
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Tsunamis: If the damage occurred following an earthquake or underwater landslide, a tsunami could be responsible for sudden and significant changes to the coastline.
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Human Activities: Coastal development, construction, and poor land-use practices can exacerbate erosion and flooding.
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Natural Processes: Erosion caused by wave action, tides, and currents can also contribute to the described conditions, especially in areas with little vegetation to stabilize the soil.
Overall, a combination of these factors, particularly extreme weather events, likely accounts for the observed damage in the coastal area.