Note added at republishing: This post covers an older report. Since the date of publication water level rise forecasts have been revised upwards.
Delaware’s comprehensive sea level rise risk assessment report confirms that long term strategic retreat from low-lying coastal areas is the most likely response to water level rises expected to continue for coming decades.
Key findings of the report are:
– a water level rise of 1.6 to 4.9 ft. is considered likely by 2100
– Up to 10% of the state will be permanently flooded
– Up to 75% of specifically named towns will be permanently flooded
– Public safety will be at risk; fire and emergency stations
, police stations, and evacuation routes will be flooded
– Public health may be at risk by the thousands of septic tanks, wastewater pumping stations and treatment facilities that will be flooded.
– Revenue from tourism is at risk and local governments will face increased funding needs for maintenance or repair of shore points.
| Download the Assessment |
| Full Document (5 MB) |
| Executive Summary |
| Introductory Sections (5 MB) |
| Natural Resources |
| Society & Economy |
| Public Safety & Infrastructure |
| Mapping Appendix (37 MB) |
| Introduction |
| Maps – Natural Resources (8.5 MB) |
| Maps – Society & Economy (6MB) |
| Maps – Public Safety & Infrastructure (13 MB) |
