tidal stream The flow of water in and out of estuaries, bays, and other restricted coastal openings associated with the rise and fall of the tide. Landward (flood) and seaward (ebb) streams or currents often follow different paths in shallow-water areas, so forming ebb/flood avoidance cells and a braided pattern of sandbanks in these coastal openings.

tidal stream The flow of water in and out of estuaries, bays, and other restricted coastal openings associated with the rise and fall of the tide. Landward (flood) and seaward (ebb) streams often follow different paths in shallow-water areas, so forming ebb/flood avoidance cells and a braided pattern of sandbanks.