A new study reveals that Oahu is sinking at a rate 40 times faster than previously estimated, leading to increased flooding risks for its coastal communities. Key areas such as Pearl Harbor and Waikiki could face severe flooding within decades, with potential infrastructure costs reaching $12.9 billion. This rapid subsidence of 25mm per year combined with rising sea levels results in alarming projections, where water levels could rise up to eight feet by 2100, drastically impacting neighborhoods and threatening vital local economies.
Rising sea levels due to climate change are already increasing coastal flood risks in low-lying neighborhoods around Honolulu, and this new study shows that sinking land could significantly amplify those risks.
In rapidly subsiding areas, sea level rise impacts will be felt much sooner than previously estimated, which means that we must prepare for flooding on a shorter timeline.
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