Description of the application

The number of major cities located near coastlines, rivers, and deltas provides an indication of the population and assets at risk. Thirteen of the world’s 20 largest cities are located on the coast, and more than a third of the world’s people live within 100 miles of a shoreline. Low-lying coastal areas represent 2 percent of the world’s land area, but contain 13 percent of the urban population. A recent study of 136 port cities showed that much of the increase in exposure of population and assets to coastal flooding is likely to be in cities in developing countries, especially in East and South Asia.

Lessons learned

The approach to assessing climate risks and impacts consists of the following sequential steps: (1) determining climate variables at the level of the city/watershed through downscaling techniques; (2) estimating impacts and vulnerability through hydrometeorological modeling, scenario analysis, and GIS mapping; and (3) preparing a damage/loss assessment and identification/prioritization of adaptation options.

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Last modified: Sept. 12, 2016, 9:29 a.m.