Children face coastal flooding risk in US cities by 2030

In a recent analysis conducted by Climate Central, it was revealed that approximately 400,000 American children are expected to live in areas at risk of major coastal flooding by the year 2030. This alarming forecast highlights the vulnerability of children, particularly regarding the physical and mental health risks associated with flooding events. After major weather-related disasters, children are known to experience significant stress and anxiety, making their wellbeing a crucial concern in disaster preparedness and response strategies. The report found that over a quarter of the children at risk are under the age of five, emphasizing the urgent need for protective measures for the youngest population. The study indicates that the states of New York and Louisiana have the highest number of at-risk children, with over 78,000 children under five in New York and more than 72,000 in Louisiana. New Jersey, while listed third, still holds a significant risk for its young population. The Climate Central analysis utilized data from the US Census Bureau, combined with building data from Microsoft’s 2018 US Building Footprints Database, along with lidar-derived elevation data provided by NOAA and the Army Corps of Engineers. By determining whether residences were below projected future water levels and hydrologically connected to the ocean, the report warned of the likely impacts of climate change on coastal flooding. Moreover, the report addressed a broader concern regarding flooding events in the United States. Coastal floods have become three times more frequent compared to 30 years ago, and this trend is anticipated to escalate further as sea levels rise due to climate change. By 2100, nearly 4.8 million Americans may live in flood-prone areas, with approximately 20% of them being children under 18. With projections indicating that coastal floods could occur ten times more frequently within the next three decades, community investment in climate resilience becomes imperative in efforts to reduce flood vulnerability. As the effects of climate change continue to pose an increasing risk, the report suggests proactive measures for parents and caregivers to enhance preparedness for potential weather-related disasters. Also, it emphasizes limiting children's exposure to flood-damaged structures following storms to safeguard their health and wellbeing. The study serves as a crucial call to action for communities to focus on protective measures and foster resilience through investment in climate adaptation strategies.