Due to global warming, sea levels are rising rapidly. This phenomenon could cause havoc worldwide, as millions of people will be directly affected by rising water levels. If you do not feel directly threatened by these changes, it can be difficult to imagine what the world might look like in the future. Climate Central, the organization that studies the impact of climate change, including rising sea levels and coastal flooding, has created a map showing the regions of the world that could be threatened by rising sea levels. It is important to remember that many things can change, and ideally, governments might finally take concrete action to address the climate crisis. However, if they do not, these studies can help us prepare for potential consequences.
New Orleans, United States
The city is protected by dikes and floodwalls from the waters of Lake Maurepas to the north, and Lake Salvador and Little Lake to the south.
Without these defenses, New Orleans would be seriously threatened by rising sea levels. However, even if they are in place, the damage could be catastrophic. During Hurricane Katrina in 2005, there were more than 50 levee and floodwall failures, resulting in deluge across 80% of the city and all of St. Bernard Parish.
Basra, Iraq
Basra is Iraq’s main port city, situated on the Shatt-el-Arab, a huge river that flows into the Persian Gulf. Due to its network of canals, streams and surrounding marshes, Basra and its surroundings are particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels.
What’s more, Basra already suffers from many water-borne diseases, so increased flooding could be even more of a threat.
Ho Chi Minh Ville, Vietnam
The areas most at risk in Hô Chi Minh-Ville are its eastern districts, particularly the flat district of Thủ Thiêm. The city is also under increasing threat along the Mekong Delta.
While it’s unlikely that the city center will be submerged by 2030, it may be more vulnerable to flooding and tropical storms.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
It’s not for nothing that the country is called the Netherlands. Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague are low-lying and close to the North Sea.
Known for its flood defences, it seems that the country’s system of dams, barriers and sluices will become even more essential in the years to come.
Find out about other cities here: https://www.msn.com/fr-ca/actualites/other/ces-villes-sont-menacées-par-la-montée-des-océans-d-ici-2030/ss-AA1km8lZ#image=10
Source: Msn
