While previous research has largely focused on flooding, the new study highlights additional threats such as groundwater hazards, land subsidence, and beach erosion. These hazards, often underappreciated in climate discussions, will be amplified by sea levels projected to rise by one meter over the next century. The study estimates that up to 70% of coastal residents and $1 trillion in property could face challenges from shallow and emerging groundwater. This risk is 15 times greater than the exposure to daily tidal flooding alone.

“This is not just a flooding issue—it’s a multi-dimensional challenge,” said USGS Research Geologist Patrick Barnard, lead author of the study. "Comprehensive adaptation measures that account for the interconnectedness of these hazards are urgently needed."

The findings underscore the necessity of considering holistic approaches to climate adaptation including a variety of potential strategies, including enhancing coastal defenses via both hard structures and nature-based solutions, redesigning infrastructure, and possibly relocating at-risk communities. Without swift action, the cumulative impacts of these hazards could reshape the Southeast Atlantic coastline and the lives of its inhabitants.