Vulnerability of Hampton Roads,Virginia to Storm-Surge Flooding and Sea-Level Rise |
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Authors: | Lisa R Kleinosky Brent Yarnal Ann Fisher |
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Institution: | (1) Center for Integrated Regional Assessment, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA |
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Abstract: | Sea-level rise will increase the area covered by hurricane storm surges in coastal zones. This research assesses how patterns
of vulnerability to storm-surge flooding could change in Hampton Roads, Virginia as a result of sea-level rise. Physical exposure
to storm-surge flooding is mapped for all categories of hurricane, both for present sea level and for future sea-level rise.
The locations of vulnerable sub-populations are determined through an analysis and mapping of socioeconomic characteristics
commonly associated with vulnerability to environmental hazards and are compared to the flood-risk exposure zones. Scenarios
are also developed that address uncertainties regarding future population growth and distribution. The results show that hurricane
storm surge presents a significant hazard to Hampton Roads today, especially to the most vulnerable inhabitants of the region.
In addition, future sea-level rise, population growth, and poorly planned development will increase the risk of storm-surge
flooding, especially for vulnerable people, thus suggesting that planning should steer development away from low-lying coastal
and near-coastal zones. |
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Keywords: | storm-surge flooding hurricanes sea-level rise climate change coastal hazards coastal development vulnerability |
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