Flooding of Coast, Caused by Global Warming, Has Already Begun

Rising waters threaten communities along the eastern and southern coasts of the United States even without storms as warned by climate researchers. “The inundation of the coast has begun,” reports Justin Gillis for the New York Times. “The sea has crept up to the point that a high tide and a brisk wind are all it takes to send water pouring into streets and homes. Federal scientists have documented a sharp jump in this nuisance flooding — often called ‘sunny-day flooding.’” The only recourse is to invest in pumps, seawalls and other infrastructure – or leave. Communities seek aid from federal and state governments, but most Republican leaders resist the scientists’ warnings that climate change is a crisis. Instead, governments continue to subsidize many coastal activities. US Navy bases are also under threat, but Congress resists military efforts to develop climate change plans. Fixes cost more than prevention once might have through reduced reliance on coal and other fossil fuels. Reinforcing coasts against rising seas will cost hundreds of billions and offer protection for limited time. – YaleGlobal