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Vulnerability of Hampton Roads, Virginia to Storm-Surge Flooding and Sea-Level Rise

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Abstract

Sea-level rise will increase the area covered by hurricane storm surges in coastal zones. This research assesses how patterns of vulnerability to storm-surge flooding could change in Hampton Roads, Virginia as a result of sea-level rise. Physical exposure to storm-surge flooding is mapped for all categories of hurricane, both for present sea level and for future sea-level rise. The locations of vulnerable sub-populations are determined through an analysis and mapping of socioeconomic characteristics commonly associated with vulnerability to environmental hazards and are compared to the flood-risk exposure zones. Scenarios are also developed that address uncertainties regarding future population growth and distribution. The results show that hurricane storm surge presents a significant hazard to Hampton Roads today, especially to the most vulnerable inhabitants of the region. In addition, future sea-level rise, population growth, and poorly planned development will increase the risk of storm-surge flooding, especially for vulnerable people, thus suggesting that planning should steer development away from low-lying coastal and near-coastal zones.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Center for Integrated Regional Assessment, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA

    Lisa R. Kleinosky, Brent Yarnal & Ann Fisher

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  1. Lisa R. Kleinosky
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  2. Brent Yarnal
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  3. Ann Fisher
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Correspondence to Brent Yarnal.

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Kleinosky, L.R., Yarnal, B. & Fisher, A. Vulnerability of Hampton Roads, Virginia to Storm-Surge Flooding and Sea-Level Rise. Nat Hazards 40, 43–70 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-006-0004-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-006-0004-z

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