Preparing for Climate Change

Defending our critical infrastructure from increased flood risks requires supporting the agencies that own infrastructure with adequate funding.

Many public agencies are taking steps to evaluate flood risk exposures due to climate change and set plans in motion. Much remains to be done!

Considering flood risks out to the 20 foot contour appears to be responsible over the next 100 years. The good news is that careful risk analysis is happening across many agencies.

Global sea levels are forecast to rise this century. By the year 2100, there is a 96% chance that Boston sea level will have risen by at least 1.8 ft. (0.56 m), a 1.3% chance of the rise exceeding 6.3 ft. (1.92 m) and a 0.1% chance of exceeding 11 ft. (3.4 m).

Today’s New York Times Magazine focuses on climate change and it’s potential impact on coastal communities. We now have a president who calls climate change a hoax. I’m seriously concerned that government in general is largely in denial about the very real consequences that we will soon be facing. I live in Back Bay and …

Continue reading “Climate Change and how it will affect Boston”

Climate change is creating more rainfall and higher sea levels, both of which will contribute to more flooding in our neighborhoods. We have a couple of decades before the problems really come home, but the lead times are long for major projects. Understanding the risks and building regional momentum to respond will remain a continuing priority of mine over the years to come.