Discover the cities that might disappear by 2030 due to rising sea levels

As the planet warms, sea levels continue to rise, posing a significant threat to coastal cities worldwide. By 2030, several major urban areas could face the dire reality of being submerged or at least severely affected by encroaching waters. But some cities that are most at risk and the implications of this global challenge.

The threatened cities

Venice, Italy: Venice is confronted with dual threats: the rising sea levels and the city’s gradual sinking at a rate of two millimetres per year. Recent severe flooding incidents underscore the vulnerability exacerbated by climate change, which is expected to escalate the occurrence of high tides submerging the city. Despite existing flood-defense systems, the challenges of upkeep will intensify as the crisis escalates.

Malé, Maldives: The Maldives, an island nation, has long recognized the danger posed by rising sea levels and has taken proactive steps, such as constructing a floating city, to address it. However, the capital’s infrastructure and neighbouring islands remain vulnerable. From the airport to the island of Hulhumalé, the escalating tide levels present a significant challenge.

New Orleans, USA: New Orleans relies on levees and flood walls to shield it from floodwaters originating from Lake Maurepas in the north, as well as Lake Salvador and Little Lake in the south. These defences are vital for protecting the city from the threat of rising sea levels. However, despite their presence, the potential for catastrophic damage remains significant. Hurricane Katrina in 2005 exposed this vulnerability, with over 50 levee and flood wall breaches resulting in flooding in 80% of the city and throughout St. Bernard Parish.

Basra, Iraq: Basra, Iraq’s primary port city, is situated on the Shatt al-Arab, a vast river that flows into the Persian Gulf. Its extensive network of canals, streams, and adjacent marshland renders Basra and its environs particularly susceptible to rising sea levels. Compounded by the city’s existing struggle with waterborne diseases, heightened flooding poses an even greater threat to Basra’s population.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: The Netherlands, often referred to as the Low Countries, earned its name for good reason. Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague are situated at low elevations and close to the North Sea. Renowned for their robust flood defences, the nation’s network of dams, barriers, and floodgates is poised to play an increasingly crucial role in safeguarding against future inundations.

Georgetown, Guayana: The capital city of Guyana is another coastal area at high risk. Located in the Caribbean, Georgetown faces the possibility of drowning by 2030 due to its position at sea level.

The underlying causes

The primary driver of rising sea levels is global warming, which leads to the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers. Additionally, the thermal expansion of seawater as it warms contributes to higher sea levels. These factors combined put low-lying coastal areas in jeopardy.

The global response

To combat the impending crisis, cities are exploring various mitigation strategies. Building robust flood defences, adapting urban planning to accommodate higher water levels, and, critically, reducing greenhouse gas emissions are at the forefront of global efforts.

The call to action

The potential submersion of cities by 2030 is a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action. It underscores the importance of international cooperation and innovation in developing sustainable solutions to protect our planet’s future.

The rising sea levels are a clarion call for immediate and decisive action to safeguard our cities and their inhabitants. As we approach 2030, the choices we make today will determine the fate of these urban centres and the global community at large.