Which Texas Cities Will Be Under Water in 25 Years? Check These Interactive Maps

HOUSTON, Texas (KPEL News) - Rising sea levels are a serious threat to Texas' coastal communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems. Low-lying areas face increased risks of flooding, erosion, and storm surges, which could result in property damage, loss of life, and displacement.

Scientists are deeply concerned about rising sea levels along Texas' coast. The state's coastline is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of sea-level rise due to factors such as land subsidence, coastal erosion, and human activities like oil and gas extraction and urban development.

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With hurricane season underway and activity picking up in the Gulf, many people along the Texas Gulf Coast are worried about flooding. That's the immediate concern.

Looking ahead, there's growing concern about climate change and its effects on the U.S., particularly our coastal areas from Texas to Florida and beyond.

Coastal habitats like marshes, wetlands, and estuaries are also in danger of being flooded or damaged, which could harm wildlife, fisheries, and recreational areas.

Texas' coastal economy, which includes industries such as fishing, tourism, and shipping, is vulnerable to the impacts of sea-level rise, as well. Coastal infrastructure, including ports, roads, and utilities, may also be compromised, leading to disruptions in transportation, energy supply, and emergency response capabilities.

Given these risks, scientists and policymakers are working to better understand the drivers and impacts of sea-level rise along Texas' coast and develop strategies to adapt to and mitigate its effects. This includes implementing coastal management and restoration projects, improving flood protection measures, and incorporating sea-level rise projections into long-term planning and development decisions.

What Could the Texas Coast Look Like?

A lot of cities along the Texas coast could be at risk of being underwater in 25 years, scientific maps at Climate Central predict.

One popular tourist destination, Galveston, looks like it could be particularly ravaged over time. As an island surrounded on all sides by water, Galveston and its biggest attractions - including Moody Gardens - could be underwater if things don't change, climate scientists warn.

Are you worried about how threats to the coast could affect you in Texas? You can check out Climate Central's maps and see for yourself what could happen.