1. World problems
  2. Storm surges

Storm surges

  • Storm tides
  • Sea surges
  • Destructive high tides
  • Dangerous tidal surges

Nature

Storm surges are transient, localized disturbances at sea level, resulting from the action of a tropical cyclone, an extratropical cyclone, or a squall over the sea. (They should not to be confused with tsunamis, or tidal waves, which result from seismic disturbances). Such disturbances may be a major cause of the damage associated with cyclonic activity. Protection against storm surges may be achieved by the construction of dyke systems (as in the Netherlands), but since the most damaging surges only recur infrequently (the 1953 surge in the Netherlands which drowned 1,800 people was the first of that height for 300 years), there is an additional economic problem in justifying the construction of dykes of adequate height.

Incidence

Regions particularly vulnerable to storm surges include the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Coast of the USA, the Gulf of Bengal, Japan and other islands of the western Pacific which lie in the typhoon belt, and the coastal regions of the North Sea. Protection is especially difficult where there are numerous and complex estuary systems. In 1993, the UK Ministry of Agriculture spent approximately £60 million on sea defenses for the country's east coast.

Claim

Storm surges represent a critical and urgent threat to coastal communities worldwide. As climate change intensifies, these surges become more frequent and severe, leading to devastating flooding, loss of life, and economic destruction. Ignoring this issue is not an option; we must prioritize research, infrastructure improvements, and disaster preparedness. The safety of millions hangs in the balance, and proactive measures are essential to mitigate the catastrophic impacts of storm surges on our vulnerable coastlines.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Counter-claim

Storm surges are often exaggerated as a significant threat, but in reality, they are just one of many natural phenomena that occur. With proper infrastructure and preparedness, their impact can be mitigated effectively. Focusing on storm surges distracts from more pressing issues like climate change and economic stability. Instead of overemphasizing this relatively minor concern, we should prioritize solutions that address the broader challenges facing our society. Storm surges are simply not a critical problem.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Broader

Danger
Yet to rate

Aggravates

Tidal floods
Presentable
Marine accidents
Presentable
Tidal water damage
Unpresentable

Aggravated by

Hurricanes
Excellent
Rising sea level
Presentable
Bad weather
Presentable

Related

Tsunamis
Presentable

Strategy

Value

High-mindedness
Yet to rate
Destructiveness
Yet to rate
Dangerous
Yet to rate

Reference

SDG

Sustainable Development Goal #13: Climate ActionSustainable Development Goal #14: Life Below Water

Metadata

Database
World problems
Type
(D) Detailed problems
Biological classification
N/A
Subject
  • Meteorology » Meteorology
  • Oceanography » Oceanography
  • Oceanography » Seas
  • Societal problems » Hazards
  • Content quality
    Presentable
     Presentable
    Language
    English
    1A4N
    D2788
    DOCID
    11427880
    D7NID
    151213
    Last update
    Oct 4, 2020