Parts of a South Coast city’s popular oceanfront boulevard could be hit by storm waves and ocean flooding in as little as a decade, according to a new report on sea level rise.
The sea level rise adaptation plan looks at some of the potential impacts on the City of Santa Barbara. The report says the city could face more than six feet of sea level rise by the year 2100, and recommends actions to deal with the issue.
The study says while the impacts of sea level rise have been minimal so far, the rate is now accelerating. The impacts include things like bluff erosion, and increased storm and tidal flooding.
It suggests that by 2030, storm waves could create coastal flooding on parts of Cabrillo Boulevard. And, it says that parts of Santa Barbara’s coastline will experience long-term bluff erosion.
Recommendations include increased sea level monitoring, adding sand berms or dunes at East Beach, Ledbetter Beach, and Arroyo Burro Beach, and relocating or flood-proofing sewer mains.