Coastal digital elevation models (DEMs) help researchers and decision makers understand and predict environmental changes that affect coastal regions. DEM data is used in a wide range of critical monitoring activities, including coastal process modeling (tsunami inundation, storm surge, sea-level rise, contaminant dispersal, etc.), ecosystem management, habitat research, coastal and marine spatial planning, hazard mitigation, and community preparedness.
![Tsunami inundation grid, Monterey Bay, CA](https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/sites/default/files/2021-10/integrated_coastal_left.jpg)
Bathymetric Data Viewer
The Bathymetric Data Viewer is an interactive map application that provides access to a variety bathymetric data, including Coastal DEMs.
Direct Access
Contact
Resources
- Continuously Updated Digital Elevation Models (CUDEMs) to Support Coastal Inundation Modeling (Amante et al.)
- DEM Fact Sheet
- Integrating Bathymetry and Topography to Support Tsunami Modeling and Forecasting
- Accuracy of Interpolated Bathymetry in Digital Elevation Models (Amante and Eakins)
- Estimating Coastal Digital Elevation Model Uncertainty (Amante)
Data Sources
- NOAA National Ocean Service
- U.S. Geological Survey
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
- Federal Emergency Management Agency
- Other government agencies, academic institutions, and private companies