Scientists from UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography and NOAA’s National Estuarine Research Reserve System needed graphics to help convey the magnitude and potential impact of sea level rise in various Southern California locations, as well as how planners can use a step-wise approach to climate change adaptation.

Modeling shows that over the next 25 years, sea levels may rise more than they have over the last 100 years, and are likely to rise even faster after 2050. As a result, the next few decades are absolutely critical time for us to be innovative and test adaptation strategies before it is too late. Making thoughtful, purposeful choices in the ways we use and develop our coastlines today will help limit the impacts from storms, erosion and flooding. Communities that implement and test solutions before the rapid increase after 2050 will be better able to withstand more frequent and intense impacts.