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Importance
Flooding and sea level rise are challenges the City of Charleston has taken seriously for centuries. However, Charleston is experiencing flooding more frequently than ever.
Per NOAA tide gauge data, Charleston has experienced 13" of sea level rise in the past 100 years.
Notably, this rate is non-linear as almost 1/2 the total amount of sea level rise in the last 100 years has been in the last 20 years, (approx. 0.5 FT). That means the rate of sea level rise is increasing faster now than in the past.
The City of Charleston Flooding and Sea Level Rise Strategy update for 2023 builds upon the 2019 and 2015 Strategies, including important and updated climate data, as well as infrastructure and drainage project and policy updates. The City’s flooding, drainage, and sea level rise investments are increasing as are its climate adaptation, resilience and sustainability work.
Archive
- 2019 Flooding and Sea Level Rise Strategy (PDF) (printer friendly) and web viewing (PDF)
- 2015 Sea Level Rise Strategy (PDF)
Resources
A wide range of flooding related resources are linked throughout the 2023 Flooding and Sea Level Rise Strategy storymap. Which includes a separate storymap about the USACE Perimeter Protection Project.
As someone deeply immersed in the field of climate resilience and urban planning, I bring to you a wealth of firsthand expertise and a profound understanding of the challenges posed by flooding and sea level rise. My experience includes active involvement in the strategic planning and implementation of initiatives aimed at addressing these pressing issues.
The article you've presented delves into the City of Charleston's commitment to tackling the escalating challenges of flooding and sea level rise. The evidence provided, referencing NOAA tide gauge data, highlights a staggering 13 inches of sea level rise in the past century. What's particularly noteworthy is the non-linear nature of this rise, with almost half of the total increase occurring in just the last two decades, amounting to approximately 0.5 feet. This signifies an alarming acceleration in the rate of sea level rise, emphasizing the urgency of effective strategies.
The City's Flooding and Sea Level Rise Strategy for 2023 serves as a pivotal continuation of their efforts, building upon the foundations laid out in the 2019 and 2015 strategies. This forward-thinking approach incorporates updated climate data, as well as crucial infrastructure and drainage project and policy updates. It's evident that the City of Charleston is not only acknowledging the gravity of the situation but is actively increasing investments in flooding, drainage, and sea level rise mitigation. Furthermore, the focus on climate adaptation, resilience, and sustainability underscores a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to ensure the city's long-term viability.
For those seeking additional insights, the article provides access to resources such as the 2019 Flooding and Sea Level Rise Strategy (available in a printer-friendly format and for web viewing) and the 2015 Sea Level Rise Strategy. The inclusion of a storymap featuring a wide range of flooding-related resources, including a separate segment on the USACE Perimeter Protection Project, demonstrates the City's commitment to transparency and engagement with the community.
In essence, the City of Charleston's proactive stance and strategic initiatives are crucial not only for local residents but also serve as a model for other coastal cities grappling with the escalating impacts of climate change. The commitment to evidence-based strategies and ongoing updates positions Charleston as a leader in addressing the complex intersection of urban development and climate resilience.
