Opinion by:
E. Eugene Webb PhD
There is no doubt in my mind that climate change is real, that the earth is warming, that sea levels are rising and that the next three decades could reveal catastrophic results in Florida from the impact of these factors
Florida is experiencing significant and accelerating effects of climate change, with key impacts including rising sea levels, more intense hurricanes, and increasing heat. Here's an overview of the status:
1. Rising Sea Levels:
• Florida is one of the most vulnerable states to sea level rise due to its extensive coastline and low elevation.
• Projections estimate that sea levels could rise by 10 to 17 inches by 2040 in some parts of the state, threatening coastal cities like Miami, Tampa, and Key West.
• Saltwater intrusion is affecting freshwater supplies, particularly in South Florida.
2. Intensifying Hurricanes:
• Warmer ocean temperatures fuel more powerful hurricanes, with storms like Hurricane Ian (2022) and others causing severe damage.
• The increased intensity and slower-moving nature of hurricanes lead to more destruction from wind and flooding.
3. Heat and Public Health:
• Florida's temperatures are rising, with more frequent and prolonged heat waves. Cities like Miami are experiencing more "extremely hot days" annually.
• This heat poses health risks, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and outdoor workers.
4. Flooding:
• Both coastal and inland flooding are becoming more frequent and severe due to heavy rainfall and storm surges.
• "Sunny day" or tidal flooding, caused by higher sea levels, is increasingly common in areas like Miami Beach and St. Augustine.
5. Environmental and Ecological Changes:
• Rising temperatures and saltwater intrusion are affecting ecosystems, such as the Everglades and coral reefs.
• Wildlife, including manatees and fish species, face challenges due to changing habitats and warmer waters.
6. Economic and Infrastructure Impact:
• Florida’s tourism, real estate, and agricultural industries are being affected by climate-related challenges.
• Billions of dollars in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and sewage systems, are at risk from flooding and rising seas.
Adaptation and Mitigation Efforts:
Florida has started implementing measures to address climate change, such as the Resilient Florida program, which provides funding for infrastructure improvements.
Cities like Miami are raising roads, improving stormwater systems, and adopting climate-resilient building codes.
Florida has implemented a range of adaptation policies to address the impacts of climate change, focusing on enhancing resilience and safeguarding communities. Key initiatives include:
1. State-Level Adaptation Strategies:
Resilient Florida Program: Established to provide funding and technical assistance to local governments for developing and implementing adaptation projects. The program emphasizes resilience planning, vulnerability assessments, and the development of Adaptation Action Areas (AAAs) to address sea-level rise and flooding.
Florida Adaptation Planning Guidebook: Published by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, this guidebook offers a comprehensive framework for local governments to assess vulnerabilities and develop adaptation strategies tailored to their specific needs.
Florida Department of Education
2. Regional and Local Initiatives:
City of Key West Climate Adaptation Plan: Key West has developed a Climate Adaptation Plan to assess threats due to climate change, such as sea-level rise, storm surge, and extreme flooding events. The plan outlines strategies to enhance the city's resilience to these challenges.
3. Conservation and Ecosystem Management:
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Initiatives: The FWC has integrated climate change considerations into Florida's State Wildlife Action Plan and developed a "Guide to Climate Change Adaptation for Conservation" to assist in managing the impacts on species and habitats.
Everglades Restoration Efforts: Significant projects are underway to restore the Everglades, a critical ecosystem that provides drinking water to millions. These efforts aim to improve water flow, enhance water quality, and build climate resilience in the region.
4. Community Engagement and Education:
Extension Services: The University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) provides resources to help communities understand, discuss, evaluate, and recommend potential solutions for climate adaptation. This includes publications and programs aimed at facilitating community change.
These policies and initiatives reflect Florida's commitment to addressing climate change through comprehensive planning, regional collaboration, conservation efforts, and community engagement.
For a look at Florida’s history of dealing with climate change CLICK HERE: Climate Change
For now, becoming aware of where your property is located in the sea-level flooding data is a good start. If you are already noticing what look like menacing high tides, it may be time to think about relocating.
Sea-level rise is not about “if”, it is about “when." You need to take steps to protect your investment in your business and home now.
E-mail Doc at mail to: dr.gwebb@yahoo.com or send me a Facebook (E. Eugene Webb) Friend request. Like or share on Facebook, follow me on X at @DOC ON THE BAY.
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