Satellite-Based Monitoring of Surface Coastal Water Quality Using Sentinel-2 Images from OCEANIDS Data Cubes: A Case Study of the Coastal Zone of Heraklion, Crete

Abstract

Coastal waters are vulnerable ecosystems that are increasingly affected by sediment and nutrient inputs, as well as pollution resulting from both natural processes and anthropogenic pressures. Monitoring the pattern of chlorophyll-a and turbidity is essential for understanding the dynamics of coastal ecosystems and supporting environmental management. This study investigates the spatial and seasonal patterns of water quality in the coastal zone of Heraklion, Crete (Greece), for the period 2016–2024 using OCEANIDS Data Cube products (GA 101112919). Water quality variability was assessed using satellite-derived spectral indices, including the Normalized Difference Chlorophyll Index (NDCI) and the Normalized Difference Turbidity Index (NDTI). Monthly observations were analyzed using a GIS-based workflow to assess seasonal spatiotemporal variability. The results revealed strong seasonal variability, with higher winter NDCI values in all coastal zones and persistent hotspots concentrated near river estuaries and waters influenced by port activities. Meanwhile, the analysis was used to prioritize the region for further monitoring and to support decision-making for stakeholders. In summary, this study demonstrates the potential of OCEANIDS Data Cube products (NDCI, NDTI) for long-term monitoring of surface coastal water quality in a Mediterranean environment with limited data and supports evidence-based coastal management.