Climate vulnerability assessments of coastal cities rarely include groundwater flooding induced by sea level rise. Unlike surface flooding from tides or storm surge, groundwater flooding is not prevented by seawalls. In cities where the underlying geology is relatively impermeable, groundwater can be drained and pumped over floodwalls as a defensive measure, as is done in the Netherlands. In areas where the underlying geology is highly permeable, managed retreat may be the only practical option. Considering the impacts of groundwater flooding is essential to improving urban vulnerability assessments and formulating realistic resilience strategies.
Rozell, DJ
Overestimating coastal urban resilience: The groundwater problem
Cities