blow-out
1. A wind-eroded section of a sand dune that has been largely stabilized by vegetation. Erosion results from a break in the vegetation cover, typically caused by overgrazing or recreational pressure. A parabolic dune may result.

2. The sudden, often catastrophic release of oil and gas that results from the failure of equipment regulating the flow from a well.

blow-out Wind-eroded section of a sand dune that has been largely stabilized by vegetation. Erosion results from a break in the vegetation cover, due typically to over-grazing or to recreational pressure. A parabolic dune may result.

Blow-out

A blow-out occurs where the soil is left unprotected to the erosive force of the wind. Blow-outs commonly occur as depressional areas, once enough soil has been removed. They most often occur in sandy soils, where vegetation is sparse.