Coastal Flood Layers Highlight Sea Level Risks
Coastal Flood Layers Highlight Sea Level Risks
US · Published Sep 21, 2026
Climate Central has developed Coastal Flood Layers using its CoastalDEM® digital elevation model. These layers provide detailed projections of areas at risk of inundation due to sea level rise or coastal flooding. The model incorporates sea level projections from the IPCC AR6 consensus and other scenarios, spanning emissions pathways from SSP1-1.9 to SSP5-8.
It also accounts for local water levels for return periods ranging from annual floods to 1-in-1,000-year events. The data is mapped against terrain to produce flood extent and depth layers for any decade between 2020 and

Impact & Risks

The Coastal Flood Layers highlight areas vulnerable to sea level rise and flooding, which could significantly impact coastal communities. Risks include property damage, infrastructure disruption, and potential displacement of residents. The tool's detailed projections allow for localized risk assessments, helping to identify areas most at risk from annual floods to rare, extreme events. This information is critical for long-term urban planning and climate adaptation strategies.

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