Scientists and journalists from Climate Central have created an interactive map predicting the impact of rising sea levels on coastal communities by 2050. The map, which includes projections for typical annual flooding and sea level rise associated with unchecked pollution, paints a concerning future for certain Southern California cities.
Flooding, which has already caused significant damage in the northeastern U.S. this summer, is predicted to become more frequent. The map shows that with “medium luck”, reflecting the middle range of possibilities predicted by scientists, flooding would primarily affect Southern California coastal areas.
Under major flood conditions, however, many developed areas would be at risk, including Naval Air Station Point Mugu, multiple sections of the Port of Long Beach, and dozens of blocks in Huntington Beach near Bolsa Chica State Beach.
Climate scientists warn that as the global temperature continues to rise, the atmosphere will hold more moisture, leading to storms dumping more precipitation, which can have deadly outcomes. These projections serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action and adaptive urban planning.