Buzz
The impact of rising sea levels may lead to the submersion of some of the world's most beautiful and bustling cities.
1. Venice
Venice has long been a dream destination for many around the globe, with its blend of religion, art, and architecture woven into every corner of life. However, with a complex network of canals and waterways, coupled with its low-lying terrain, the city is at serious risk from rising sea levels.
Recent flooding has caused significant damage to some architectural landmarks, prompting the city authorities to spend tens of millions of dollars on repairs. It is predicted that if sea levels rise by another meter, the entire city of Venice could be submerged.
2. Amsterdam
The entire Netherlands is considered a low-lying country, with a quarter of its land below sea level. With a network of canals tightly woven into the city, Amsterdam would also be submerged if the sea level rose by an additional 2m. It is estimated that in about 150 years, this beautiful city will be submerged.
3. Hamburg
The second largest city in Germany is also on the list of places at risk of being submerged. Hamburg sits on a floodplain of the Elbe River, just 100km from the North Sea coast. Additionally, the city has an extensive network of waterways, making it even more vulnerable to the continued rise in sea levels.
4. St. Petersburg
Once the capital of Russia, nicknamed the 'Venice of the North,' St. Petersburg is built on a series of islands at the mouth of the fierce Neva River. Consequently, since its founding, this city has often borne the brunt of floods. In recent years, the situation has become even more frequent and dangerous.
A barrier to protect the city, funded by the government, has been built. Without this system, St. Petersburg would undoubtedly be submerged in water.
5. Los Angeles
Being a coastal city, Los Angeles faces a high risk of flooding as sea levels rise. According to scientists, the city's coastline is gradually being eroded by the sea, which means that some coastal structures and buildings are at risk of flooding and severe architectural damage.
6. San Francisco
Another city in California, situated on a crescent-shaped peninsula, San Francisco naturally ranks among the cities at high risk of submersion. Although California is surrounded by tall mountain ranges, protecting the San Francisco peninsula from potential dangers if sea levels rise will be challenging.
7. Southern London
London is a low-lying city, so it also faces a high risk of being affected by rising sea levels. The city is built around the River Thames, with much of the area, especially to the south and west, being marshland. This means that the land here has absorbed too much water. Therefore, if rising sea levels cause the river to overflow, it would mean that Southern London would be completely submerged.
8. Shanghai
Shanghai is just one of many cities in China at serious risk of being heavily impacted by rising sea levels. At the current rate, in 400 years, the sea level will rise by an additional 6.5m, meaning the entire vibrant city of Shanghai will be submerged.
According to Depplus
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Reference: Mytour Travel Handbook
MytourMay 21st, 2014
