More people, more problems: Why growing coastal cities are vulnerable to climate disasters

With nearly 40% of the U.S. population residing in coastal counties, the threat from hurricanes and flooding is exacerbated by the concentration of socially vulnerable communities.

The Gulf Coast is particularly susceptible to climate change-induced concurrent disasters, as illustrated by Hurricane Beryl's devastating impact in July 2024 on millions of residents.

Socially vulnerable populations, such as older adults, people living in poverty, and mobile-home dwellers, often lack the resources to prepare for and recover from hurricanes.

Rapid population growth in coastal cities places more individuals in high-risk flood zones, where they're exposed to the compounding threats of hurricanes and rising sea levels.

Read at Fast Company