Rising seas now threaten coastal cities worldwide. A Virginia Tech report examined 32 major U.S. coastal cities using satellite data on land subsidence, sea-level-rise projections, and tide charts to estimate flooding risk by 2050.
The analysis found that when sinking land is factored in—not just rising oceans—about 1 in 50 residents in 24 of the cities could face significant flooding by mid-century. Overall, the researchers estimate up to 500,000 people and roughly 1 in 35 privately owned properties in these cities may be at risk of flood damage by 2050.
When you think of sea-level rise, it’s often about distant futures. But for many U.S. cities, flooding risk is already accelerating. With many of these cities already bearing the brunt of flooding, experts warn that, without drastic measures, some may be submerged in our lifetimes.
Miami, Florida
Data shows that 56% of Miami‑Dade County sits 6 feet or less above sea level, based on lidar‑derived elevation data reported by WUSF, with much of that land resting on porous limestone that allows water to seep through and undermines traditional flood defenses.
Even today, “sunny-day” flooding occurs during high tides, and by 2050, large swaths of real estate will be flagged as high- or extreme-risk areas for flooding. As the city continues to experience higher tides and more frequent flooding, it’s crucial to understand the growing economic and infrastructure impacts.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Over half of New Orleans sits below sea level, with pump and levee systems working against chronic land subsidence and rising seas. This sinking city faces increasing flood risk and potential levee failures as climate threats escalate.
Researchers say that portions of the city are effectively locked in for long-term flooding unless massive adaptation is undertaken immediately. The cost and scale of these adaptations are monumental, and without significant action, this unique cultural city will be at risk.
Norfolk, Virginia
Norfolk is experiencing both sea-level rise and ground subsidence, with land sinking by 1.1 to 4.8 millimeters per year depending on location. This combination significantly worsens flooding risks across the city.
This combination makes it one of the most at-risk U.S. cities for frequent flooding, especially around high tides and storm surges. As sea levels continue to rise and subsidence accelerates, Norfolk faces significant challenges in protecting its infrastructure.
Houston, Texas
More than 40% of Houston’s land subsides at rates exceeding 5 mm per year, driven mainly by groundwater extraction. In certain suburbs, the ground sinks up to 3 cm annually, compounding flood risk and damaging infrastructure due to the city’s soft soil.
As sea levels rise and heavy rainfall events increase, areas of the city that were once considered safe are now facing more frequent flooding. The ongoing urban expansion worsens the problem, as new development increases the demand on an already overburdened drainage system.
Also on MSN: 12 U.S. Cities Poised to Withstand the Pressures of Climate Change
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston’s sea level has risen about 8 inches since 1970, increasing flood risks for waterfront areas. By 2070, 20% of city land could be exposed to flooding during severe storms, endangering thousands of homes and historic sites.
The city’s rich history doesn’t shield it from climate threats, and the cost of protective infrastructure is rising rapidly. The need for flood prevention is urgent, as rising tides threaten homes and businesses. Boston must act quickly and invest heavily in sustainable solutions to protect its coastline and historic sites, or risk losing much of its cultural heritage.
Jersey City, New Jersey
Jersey City and New Jersey’s coastal areas are projected to see a sea level rise of 2.3–6.3 ft (0.7–1.9 m) by 2100, depending on emissions scenarios. Flooding is increasingly frequent along Jersey City’s heavily developed waterfront, with thousands of properties already experiencing more regular tidal and storm-related inundation.
Coupled with heavy development and rising storm intensity, this place is under increasing threat from high-water events and long-term flooding. As more people move into these vulnerable areas, the risks of property damage, economic loss, and displacement become much more pressing.
Galveston, Texas
Galveston’s land is sinking at rates above 6 mm per year in many spots, with subsidence driven by both natural compaction and oil extraction. The city has already seen over 8 inches of sea level rise in just 14 years; projections reach 3 to 8 feet by 2100, making flooding and storm surge increasingly severe.
This dual threat elevates the risk of storm surge inundation and makes infrastructure and homes especially vulnerable. The city’s beachfront communities, once popular for tourism, are particularly at risk of being submerged in the coming years as sea levels continue to rise.
Redwood City, California
Redwood City in San Mateo County faces the highest coastal flood risk in California, with 27% of its population over 22,000 people at risk from a 100-year flood within the next 25 years due to sea-level rise and low-lying terrain. Rising global temperatures are accelerating local sea-level rise, further escalating flood risk for both residential neighborhoods and infrastructure
Local planners are warning that sea-level rise and low elevation combine to create significant exposure west of the Bay. As the sea encroaches, new urban planning measures must be considered to prevent devastating floods from affecting the local economy.
Charleston, South Carolina
The historic city of Charleston is sinking and sea levels are rising concurrently, making some areas already experience frequent flooding. The subsidence rate has been recorded at up to 4 mm/year in some spots.
With its rich colonial history, the city’s vulnerabilities now include climate-driven water threats along its coast and tidal rivers. If proactive steps aren’t taken soon, Charleston’s iconic waterfront areas could face irreversible damage from flooding.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia’s shoreline and river-basin margins are seeing increasing flood risk, with sea-level rise projected and land sinking in some zones. While not at the extreme levels of Gulf Coast cities yet, the scale of the infrastructure and population in play raises the stakes.
Delaying action could mean escalating costs and disruptions for the region in the decades ahead. If steps aren’t taken to mitigate the effects of rising seas, neighborhoods along the river will continue to face regular flooding and possible displacement.
Los Angeles, California
Coastal L.A. communities such as Venice, Marina del Rey, and Long Beach are increasingly exposed to sea-level rise and storm surge. With 425,000 residents and $36 billion in assets at risk of flooding, the economic stakes are exceptionally high.
Real estate, transit, and coastal communities may need heavy adaptation to manage the threat. The city’s population density and reliance on its coastal areas for tourism make it particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Parts of Honolulu and O’ahu are sinking “40 times faster than previously predicted” in certain areas, significantly increasing flood exposure and reducing the time available for adaptation. This rapid subsidence, combined with rising sea levels, presents a serious challenge for the island’s infrastructure.
Key areas, including the airport and coastal neighborhoods, face increasing risks of inundation by 2050-2080. Honolulu’s reliance on tourism and its low-lying coastal infrastructure make it especially vulnerable to long-term flooding, with potentially severe economic and social impacts.
Key Takeaway
Even today’s coastal cities are not immune to flooding, and many face both rising seas and sinking land. The sooner planning and adaptation happen, the better the chance of preserving homes, infrastructure, and communities for future generations. Addressing these challenges will require significant investments in flood defenses, urban planning, and climate resilience to safeguard vulnerable regions.
20 of the Worst American Tourist Attractions, Ranked in Order
20 of the Worst American Tourist Attractions, Ranked in Order
If you’ve found yourself here, it’s likely because you’re on a noble quest for the worst of the worst—the crème de la crème of the most underwhelming and downright disappointing tourist traps America offers. Maybe you’re looking to avoid common pitfalls, or perhaps just a connoisseur of the hilariously bad.
Whatever the reason, here is a list that’s sure to entertain, if not educate. Hold onto the hats and explore the ranking, in sequential order, of the 20 worst American tourist attractions.
