New report shows record-breaking coastal flooding due to sea level rise, expected to continue into 2021
Coastal communities across the U.S. continued to see record-setting high-tide flooding last year, forcing their residents and visitors to deal with flooded shorelines, streets and basements — a trend that is expected to continue into 2021. The elevated water levels affected coastal economies, tourism and crucial infrastructure like waste and stormwater systems, according to a new NOAA report.
![Front Street in Beaufort, North Carolina, during a so-called "king tide." High tide flooding causes such public inconveniences as frequent road closures, overwhelmed storm drains and compromised infrastructure. (Image credit: Christine Burns / NC King Tides Project UNC-IMS) Front Street in Beaufort, North Carolina, during a so-called "king tide." High tide flooding causes such public inconveniences as frequent road closures, overwhelmed storm drains and compromised infrastructure.](/sites/default/files/styles/landscape_width_1275/public/legacy/image/2019/Sep/PHOTO%20-%20front%20street%20beaufort%20nc%2010-5-2015%20-%2009272019%20-%20christine%20burns%20-%203136x1495%20-%20LANDSCAPE.jpg?itok=X3vz3GHe)
Front Street in Beaufort, North Carolina, during a so-called "king tide." High tide flooding causes such public inconveniences as frequent road closures, overwhelmed storm drains and compromised infrastructure. (Image credit: Christine Burns / NC King Tides Project UNC-IMS)