Skip to main content

These Maps Illustrate What Might Happen To Coastal Cities When Sea Levels Rise

As sea levels rise due to climate change, coastal cities face a multitude of potential challenges and threats. The world is guaranteed to see two feet of sea level rise by 2100. 

The consequences are broad and encompass various aspects of urban life. One significant impact is the increased risk of coastal flooding and inundation, especially during storm surges and extreme weather events. As sea levels elevate, low-lying coastal areas become more susceptible to flooding, posing immediate dangers to infrastructure, property, and human lives.

Erosion of coastal landscapes is another critical concern. Rising sea levels contribute to the degradation of shorelines, leading to the loss of beaches, wetlands, and other natural buffers. This erosion not only diminishes the aesthetic and recreational value of coastal areas but also reduces their capacity to absorb the impact of storms, leaving inland areas more vulnerable to flooding.

The intrusion of saltwater into freshwater resources is a consequential threat. As sea levels rise, saltwater can infiltrate coastal aquifers and estuaries, jeopardizing sources of drinking water and agricultural irrigation. This intrusion can have far-reaching implications for both human populations and ecosystems, challenging the sustainability of coastal communities.

Infrastructure, including ports, roads, and buildings, faces increased exposure to saltwater corrosion and damage. Coastal cities often host critical economic hubs and transportation networks, and the degradation of infrastructure can disrupt trade, transportation, and overall economic activities.

Furthermore, the displacement of populations is a potential social consequence. As coastal areas become less habitable due to rising sea levels and associated risks, residents may be forced to relocate, leading to a strain on resources, potential conflict, and challenges in managing mass migrations.

More than 600 million people live in coastal areas that are less than 30 feet above sea level. 311,000 houses in the United States will be vulnerable to chronic flooding by 2045.

Coastal cities are first in line for big changes, and some that can afford it are gearing up to spend billions to make sure they survive.


To learn more, read:

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.


Popular posts from this blog

Find cities with similar climate

This map has been created using The Global environmental stratification. The Global environmental stratification (GEnS), based on statistical clustering of bioclimate data (WorldClim). GEnS, consists of 125 strata, which have been aggregated into 18 global environmental zones (labeled A to R) based on the dendrogram. Interactive map >> Via www.vividmaps.com Related posts: -  Find cities with similar climate 2050 -  How global warming will impact 6000+ cities around the world?

Moose population in North America

The moose ( Alces alces ) is the largest member of the deer family, characterized by its massive size, long legs, and distinctive broad, palmate antlers found in males. They have a dark brown or black coat and a humped shoulder. Moose are primarily found in the boreal and mixed deciduous forests of North America, Europe, and Asia. They are solitary animals, often found near bodies of water, and are herbivores that feed on leaves, bark, twigs, and aquatic vegetation. Despite their size, moose are strong swimmers and can run up to 35 miles per hour. The moose population in North America is shrinking swiftly. This decrease has been correlated to the opening of roadways and landscapes into this animal's north range.   In North America, the moose range includes almost all of Canada and Alaska, the northern part of New England and New York, the upper Rocky Mountains, northern Minnesota and Wisconsin, Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and Isle Royale.    In 2014-2015, the North Americ...

Map of Fox Species Distribution

Foxes are small to medium-sized members of the Canidae family, which also includes wolves, dogs, and other related animals. There are about 37 species of foxes distributed around the world, and they inhabit a wide range of environments, from forests and grasslands to deserts and urban areas. Below is the map of fox species distribution  created by Reddit user isaacSW Here are some of the most well-known fox species and their distribution: Red Fox ( Vulpes vulpes ): The red fox is one of the most widely distributed fox species and is found in North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. They are adaptable and can live in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. Arctic Fox ( Vulpes lagopus ): The Arctic fox is found in the Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. They have adaptations that help them survive in cold climates, such as a thick coat that changes color with the seasons. Gray Fox ( Urocyon cinereoargenteus ): The gray ...