The Chesapeake Bay's ability to mitigate storm surges is diminishing due to rising sea levels and land subsidence. Coastal communities near the lower bay, including areas within 30 miles (48 kilometers) of the bay's entrance, face increased flood risks. Strong, slow-moving storms could cause water levels to vary by up to 3 feet (0.9 meters), particularly during peak storm surges. The upper bay is less sensitive to storm intensity, but the overall trend points to higher and harder-to-buffer flood levels, posing significant risks to infrastructure and residents.