What Is a Coastal Flood?

Coastal flooding is a danger worldwide. According to the U.K. Meteorological Office, "a large and increasing fraction of the world's population live along coastlines and significant numbers are already vulnerable to coastal flooding in both the developed and developing world."

Causes

• Coastal flooding occurs when intense, offshore low-pressure systems drive ocean water inland; the water being pushed ashore is called a storm surge. Coastal floods can be induced as a result of hazards such as hurricanes or tsunamis, according to FloodPlugs.com.

Coastal Flooding Levels

• According to the New York City Office of Emergency Management, coastal flooding levels can be categorized as minor, moderate and major. Minor levels are those not expected to close roads, but they may cause local beach erosion.

  Moderate and major levels range, respectively, from substantial flooding to a serious threat to both life and property. In either scenario, roads are likely to become inundated with floodwaters.

Impact of Climate Change

• More areas are expected to face a greater risk of coastal flooding due to rises in sea level induced by climate change. Changes in the intensity of tropical storms and storm surges under projected climate change may further add to the risk of flooding, according to the U.K. Meteorological Office.