Climate Change And Coastal Flooding

Question 1

What is one reason some areas might be more prone to coastal flooding due to climate change?

Answer 1

Increased number and intensity of storms

Climate change leads to warmer ocean water, which is linked with increased storm frequency and intensity, resulting in greater potential for storm surge events.

Question 2

How does climate change affect storm patterns?

Answer 2

Variation in the patterns of storms

Large tropical storms may begin to track into different regions, bringing the threat of coastal flooding to more coastlines.

Question 3

What was the mean global sea level rise by 1900?

Answer 3

20 cm

This rise has significant implications for coastal areas, especially those below sea level.

Question 4

What percentage of the Netherlands is below sea level?

Answer 4

50%

The Netherlands and large areas of the East Anglian Fens are protected by coastal defences despite being below sea level.

Question 5

What does the IPCC predict for sea level rise by 2100?

Answer 5

Further 18-59 cm rise

This prediction highlights the ongoing threat of rising sea levels due to climate change.

Question 6

What would a 40 cm sea level rise mean for Bangladesh?

Answer 6

Permanently submerge 11% of Bangladesh

This scenario could create 7-10 million environmental refugees.

Question 7

What percentage of the Maldives’ land area would be permanently flooded with a 50 cm sea level rise?

Answer 7

77%

The Maldives is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, threatening its very existence.