Coast Day 2021: Coastal Hazards

 

Living in any coastal environment, there are certain hazards that come along with the many benefits of natural beauty, healthy seafood and vibrant communities. Coastal storms, such as hurricanes and nor’easters, can bring punishing wind, rain and storm surge. Climate change is intensifying both storms and sea level rise, leading to increasing flooding. And the balance between freshwater and saltwater can be difficult for irrigation or drinking water supplies.

The Rising Tide: Are We Prepared?

Sea level rise over the next century will inundate portions of coastal states, requiring some kind of adaptation from local populations. In this talk, John Callahan of the Delaware Geological Survey shares the sea level rise projections he has developed for the state, and Phil Barnes, of the Institute for Public Administration in the Biden School of Public Policy, addresses options communities have to deal with rising waters.

Community Resilience and Coastal Flooding

Delaware Sea Grant’s coastal hazards specialist, Danielle Swallow, discusses the threats facing towns, infrastructure and populations because of increased coastal flooding. Swallow also provides practical information about how individuals and communities can prepare to better weather the next incident.

Coastal Observer

Much to the ire of many Delawareans, the flooding of roads and properties has become increasingly common in low-lying areas throughout the state. Nor’easters—storms that form along the East Coast of North America—can be a major cause of coastal flooding. With nor’easters most likely to occur between September and April, we are entering the time of year when coastal storms become more of a concern.

15 Second Science — Oil Spills

This series of #15SecondScience videos focusing on oil spills addresses many questions: What happens if humans don't intervene quick enough? How do scientists determine the origin of an oil spill? What happens to oil collected from a spill on the beach? And most practically, how do you stay safe and report an oil spill if you spot one?

15 Second Science — Storms and Flooding

In these recent #15SecondScience episodes, you can learn about common storms in the region, as well as area flooding, which can be caused by either storm surge or tides.

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Do you have a storm story to share?

Check out the Tell Your Story section of Coast Day 2021!