Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.
Coasts, Storms, and Sea Level Rise
Coasts, Storms, and Sea Level Rise Geonarratives
Check out some of our favorite tools and visually stunning interactive narratives describing our coastal work.
Check out some of our favorite tools and visually stunning interactive narratives describing our coastal work.
Sea Level Rise Modeling
Want to see how sea level rise may impact your favorite U.S. coast? Check out the USGS Coastal Change Hazards Portal.
Want to see how sea level rise may impact your favorite U.S. coast? Check out the USGS Coastal Change Hazards Portal.
Coral Reef Project
Learn how the USGS maps, monitors, and models coral reefs to help protect our Nation's reefs.
Learn how the USGS maps, monitors, and models coral reefs to help protect our Nation's reefs.
Featured Photos
Explore some of the beautiful photos taken by USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center scientists.
Explore some of the beautiful photos taken by USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center scientists.
Soundwaves Newsletter
Stay up to date with coastal and marine research news from across the USGS
Stay up to date with coastal and marine research news from across the USGS
Climate change poses significant risks to coasts, from sea level rise and high-tide flooding to accelerated erosion and intensifying storms. USGS scientists help coastal communities better understand climate change impacts, inform emergency responses, and provide insights to improve resilience and preserve coastal resources in the future.
How does Climate Change Affect U.S. Coasts?
Millions of Americans live and play along the coast. Coastal counties are home to 127 million people (and growing!), accounting for $8.6 trillion in goods and services each year. Coastal communities are well acquainted with the realities of living by the ocean – the storms, the waves, the salt, the sand. Yet climate change is altering the Nation’s coastal landscapes, creating new challenges for these communities that they are seldom equipped to face.
Media
Rising global temperatures create warmer oceans and, in turn, warmer and wetter ocean breezes. These factors feed tropical storms and create longer, more destructive hurricane seasons. The 2010s saw twice as many tropical cyclones as the 1980s and nearly ten times as much related property damage ($476 billion compared to $41 billion). Warming trends also mean that hurricanes are moving farther north, leaving new communities at risk of devastating storms. Learn more about USGS work with extreme storms.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
Warmer temperatures mean less ice. As ice melts, it releases huge amounts of water previously stored in sea ice and glaciers into the world’s oceans. Warmer water is also “bigger” -- water increases in volume as temperatures rise. Combined, these factors cause global sea levels to rise. Rising water levels worsen seasonal tidal flooding, creating high-tide and sunny day flooding. They also leave roads, houses, marinas, and even whole islands underwater. Even small amounts of sea level rise can damage sensitive coastal and marine ecosystems by flooding wetland and seagrass ecosystems and damaging mangroves. Learn more about USGS work on sea level rise.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
Intense storms and higher seas create more winds, waves, and floods, leading to increased coastal erosion. Hurricanes can wash away sandy barrier islands, leaving coastlines and islands unprotected from storm surge. Waves and winds can carry away beach sand little by little, shrinking scenic beaches. Erosion also exposes human infrastructure and sensitive archeological sites to tides and storms. Many beaches along the Nation’s coastline have lost more than six feet of shoreline a year over the last century. Coastal erosion estimates for much of the country are expected to increase in coming decades. Learn more about USGS work on coastal erosion.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
USGS Helps Communities Understand New Coastal Hazards
By helping people understand and respond to coastal change, the USGS helps communities become resilient to coastal hazards now and in the future.
USGS researchers use on-the-ground field work, high-resolution data, and modeling to help communities understand and respond to changes in coastal landscapes. Federal, Tribal, state, and local offices around the country use USGS data to inform coastal management and strategic planning. Some use our science to plan evacuation notices, inform city planning, and construct storm-resistant infrastructure. Others use USGS habitat assessments and decision support tools to restore coastal ecosystems, developing “green infrastructure” that can buffer against future storm damage and coastal erosion.
Our science helps to:
-
Forecast future storms, floods, and coastal erosion, and predict the resulting impacts on coasts
-
Build a better understanding of coastal ecosystems
-
Understand climate change impacts to coastal ecosystems and communities
-
Develop decision support tools to help coastal communities prepare for and recover from storms, floods, and erosion
-
Restore and protect coastal ecosystems that absorb greenhouse gasses, reducing the effects of climate change (blue carbon)
Science
Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS)
Software for calculating positional boundary change over time The Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) version 6 is a standalone application that calculates shoreline or boundary change over time. The GIS of a user’s choice is used to prepare the data for DSAS. Like previous versions, DSAS v.6 enables a user to calculate rate-of-change statistics from multiple historical shoreline positions...
Coastal Climate Impacts
The impacts of climate change and sea-level rise around the Pacific and Arctic Oceans can vary tremendously. Thus far the vast majority of national and international impact assessments and models of coastal climate change have focused on low-relief coastlines that are not near seismically active zones. Furthermore, the degree to which extreme waves and wind will add further stress to coastal...
Dynamic coastlines along the western U.S.
The west coast of the United States is extremely complex and changeable because of tectonic activity, mountain building, and land subsidence. These active environments pose a major challenge for accurately assessing climate change impacts, since models were historically developed for more passive sandy coasts.
The Impact of Sea-Level Rise and Climate Change on Pacific Ocean Atolls
Providing basic understanding and specific information on storm-wave inundation of atoll islands that house Department of Defense installations, and assessing the resulting impact of sea-level rise and storm-wave inundation on infrastructure and freshwater availability under a variety of sea-level rise and climatic scenarios.
Climate impacts to Arctic coasts
The Arctic region is warming faster than anywhere else in the nation. Understanding the rates and causes of coastal change in Alaska is needed to identify and mitigate hazards that might affect people and animals that call Alaska home.
Multimedia
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist
Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ferdinand Oberle, Research Geologist
Along reef-lined shores of the Pacific Islands, USGS Research Geologist and Oceanographer Ferdinand Oberle studies how warming surface waters, nutrient runoff, and increasingly powerful storms impact coral reefs.
Along reef-lined shores of the Pacific Islands, USGS Research Geologist and Oceanographer Ferdinand Oberle studies how warming surface waters, nutrient runoff, and increasingly powerful storms impact coral reefs.
Eyes on Earth Episode 68 - Tracking Mangroves by Satellite
The sturdy root systems of mangrove forests act as buffer zones along the coastlines of some of the planet’s most vulnerable communities, protecting lives, ecosystems and property from the rigors of hurricanes and tsunamis.
The sturdy root systems of mangrove forests act as buffer zones along the coastlines of some of the planet’s most vulnerable communities, protecting lives, ecosystems and property from the rigors of hurricanes and tsunamis.
Tidal Marshland in the Plum Island Estuary, Massachusetts
The marshes of Plum Island Estuary are among those predicted by scientists to submerge during the next century under conservative projections of sea-level rise.
The marshes of Plum Island Estuary are among those predicted by scientists to submerge during the next century under conservative projections of sea-level rise.
Ridge-to-Reef and Icefield-to-Ocean: Collaborative Research in Extreme Environments
Steep watersheds with dramatic environmental gradients are common features of both the Pacific Islands and Southeast Alaska.
Steep watersheds with dramatic environmental gradients are common features of both the Pacific Islands and Southeast Alaska.
COP26-Communities on the Frontline-Jerilyn Kelly from Quinhagak, AK
This video was prepared for Douglas Beard's presentation at COP26, Communities on the Frontline. Jerilyn Kelly, from Quinhagak, AK shares video and photographs from her community and some of the climate related challenges her community faces. She describes how erosion and permafrost degradation impact her community and their housing.
This video was prepared for Douglas Beard's presentation at COP26, Communities on the Frontline. Jerilyn Kelly, from Quinhagak, AK shares video and photographs from her community and some of the climate related challenges her community faces. She describes how erosion and permafrost degradation impact her community and their housing.
Secrets of the Sediment on Barrier Islands
Join the USGS St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center as they uncover the secrets of the sediment on barrier islands in Pinellas County, Florida. This video was originally created for use at the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
Join the USGS St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center as they uncover the secrets of the sediment on barrier islands in Pinellas County, Florida. This video was originally created for use at the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
Hawai'i Island: Voices From Community-Based Climate Adaptation
Release: Climate Change Reduces Coral Reefs' Ability to Protect Coasts
Explore some of the many USGS science projects on coastal change, storms, and sea level rise.
Filter Total Items: 37
Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS)
Software for calculating positional boundary change over time The Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) version 6 is a standalone application that calculates shoreline or boundary change over time. The GIS of a user’s choice is used to prepare the data for DSAS. Like previous versions, DSAS v.6 enables a user to calculate rate-of-change statistics from multiple historical shoreline positions...
Coastal Climate Impacts
The impacts of climate change and sea-level rise around the Pacific and Arctic Oceans can vary tremendously. Thus far the vast majority of national and international impact assessments and models of coastal climate change have focused on low-relief coastlines that are not near seismically active zones. Furthermore, the degree to which extreme waves and wind will add further stress to coastal...
Dynamic coastlines along the western U.S.
The west coast of the United States is extremely complex and changeable because of tectonic activity, mountain building, and land subsidence. These active environments pose a major challenge for accurately assessing climate change impacts, since models were historically developed for more passive sandy coasts.
The Impact of Sea-Level Rise and Climate Change on Pacific Ocean Atolls
Providing basic understanding and specific information on storm-wave inundation of atoll islands that house Department of Defense installations, and assessing the resulting impact of sea-level rise and storm-wave inundation on infrastructure and freshwater availability under a variety of sea-level rise and climatic scenarios.
Climate impacts to Arctic coasts
The Arctic region is warming faster than anywhere else in the nation. Understanding the rates and causes of coastal change in Alaska is needed to identify and mitigate hazards that might affect people and animals that call Alaska home.
State of Our Nation's Coast
Discover USGS products, tools, and data with the Coastal Science Navigator! The Coastal Science Navigator serves as a gateway to USGS Coastal Change Hazards resources and assists users in finding products and tools that will meet their specific needs.
CASC Extreme Weather Highlights
Climate change can intensify extreme weather events such as hurricanes, heat waves, and floods, devastating human and ecological communities and fundamentally shifting ecosystem and water dynamics in the region. The CASC network produces knowledge, data, and tools to understand and predict extreme weather events and help develop strategies for protecting communities and ecosystems.
Coastal Storm Modeling System (CoSMoS)
The Coastal Storm Modeling System (CoSMoS) makes detailed predictions of storm-induced coastal flooding, erosion, and cliff failures over large geographic scales. CoSMoS was developed for hindcast studies, operational applications and future climate scenarios to provide emergency responders and coastal planners with critical storm-hazards information that can be used to increase public safety...
Coastal Resource Evaluation for Management Application (CREMA)
Coastal environments are dynamic systems that provide high ecological, economical, recreational, and cultural value. Managing coastal systems requires a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between geological and ecological processes, as well as the ability to predict both the near-term and long-term impacts of storms and sea-level rise. The Coastal Resource Evaluation for...
COAWST: A Coupled-Ocean-Atmosphere-Wave-Sediment Transport Modeling System
Understanding the processes responsible for coastal change is important for managing both our natural and economic coastal resources. Storms are one of the primary driving forces causing coastal change from a coupling of wave- and wind-driven flows. To better understand storm impacts and their effects on our coastlines, there is an international need to better predict storm paths and intensities...
Coastal Change Hazards - Technical Capabilities and Applications
The Technical Capabilities and Applications (TCA) component of the Coastal Change Hazards (CCH) program focus leverages technical talent across the Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program (CMHRP) to bridge capability, expertise, and cooperation between the three Coastal and Marine Science Centers: Woods Hole, Massachusetts; St. Petersburg, Florida; and Santa Cruz, California. TCA provides...
Coastal Change Hazards - Stakeholder Engagement and Communications
An important role of the Coastal Change Hazards (CCH) program focus is to foster communication and information exchange, promote collaboration, build partnerships, and connect people with CCH knowledge, data, and tools. Coastal communities and practitioners need scientific information to support decisions regarding development, economics, environmental health, and public safety along the coast...
Check out some of the amazing USGS photos, videos, podcasts, and webinars on coastal change, sea level rise, and storms.
Filter Total Items: 24
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist
Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.
Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ferdinand Oberle, Research Geologist
Along reef-lined shores of the Pacific Islands, USGS Research Geologist and Oceanographer Ferdinand Oberle studies how warming surface waters, nutrient runoff, and increasingly powerful storms impact coral reefs.
Along reef-lined shores of the Pacific Islands, USGS Research Geologist and Oceanographer Ferdinand Oberle studies how warming surface waters, nutrient runoff, and increasingly powerful storms impact coral reefs.
Eyes on Earth Episode 68 - Tracking Mangroves by Satellite
The sturdy root systems of mangrove forests act as buffer zones along the coastlines of some of the planet’s most vulnerable communities, protecting lives, ecosystems and property from the rigors of hurricanes and tsunamis.
The sturdy root systems of mangrove forests act as buffer zones along the coastlines of some of the planet’s most vulnerable communities, protecting lives, ecosystems and property from the rigors of hurricanes and tsunamis.
Tidal Marshland in the Plum Island Estuary, Massachusetts
The marshes of Plum Island Estuary are among those predicted by scientists to submerge during the next century under conservative projections of sea-level rise.
The marshes of Plum Island Estuary are among those predicted by scientists to submerge during the next century under conservative projections of sea-level rise.
Ridge-to-Reef and Icefield-to-Ocean: Collaborative Research in Extreme Environments
Steep watersheds with dramatic environmental gradients are common features of both the Pacific Islands and Southeast Alaska.
Steep watersheds with dramatic environmental gradients are common features of both the Pacific Islands and Southeast Alaska.
COP26-Communities on the Frontline-Jerilyn Kelly from Quinhagak, AK
This video was prepared for Douglas Beard's presentation at COP26, Communities on the Frontline. Jerilyn Kelly, from Quinhagak, AK shares video and photographs from her community and some of the climate related challenges her community faces. She describes how erosion and permafrost degradation impact her community and their housing.
This video was prepared for Douglas Beard's presentation at COP26, Communities on the Frontline. Jerilyn Kelly, from Quinhagak, AK shares video and photographs from her community and some of the climate related challenges her community faces. She describes how erosion and permafrost degradation impact her community and their housing.
Secrets of the Sediment on Barrier Islands
Join the USGS St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center as they uncover the secrets of the sediment on barrier islands in Pinellas County, Florida. This video was originally created for use at the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
Join the USGS St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center as they uncover the secrets of the sediment on barrier islands in Pinellas County, Florida. This video was originally created for use at the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
Hawai'i Island: Voices From Community-Based Climate Adaptation
Release: Climate Change Reduces Coral Reefs' Ability to Protect Coasts
Hurricane Ida Water Footprint Data Visualization
Hurricane Ida made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Louisiana, and brought widespread precipitation and flooding along its path and up the northeastern coast of U.S. in the following week.
Hurricane Ida made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Louisiana, and brought widespread precipitation and flooding along its path and up the northeastern coast of U.S. in the following week.
Reducing Flood Risks by Restoring Coral Reefs
R/V Sallenger and an oceanographic buoy
A solar-powered Sofar spotter buoy floats in the water next to the R/V (Research Vessel) Sallenger.
A solar-powered Sofar spotter buoy floats in the water next to the R/V (Research Vessel) Sallenger.
USGS Coastal Change Hazards
The USGS Coastal Change Hazards team works to identify and address the Nation’s coastal change hazards problems. By integrating research, technical capabilities and applications, and stakeholder engagement and communications, the Coastal Change Hazards team develops robust and accessible coastal change assessments, forecasts, and tools that help improve the lives,
The USGS Coastal Change Hazards team works to identify and address the Nation’s coastal change hazards problems. By integrating research, technical capabilities and applications, and stakeholder engagement and communications, the Coastal Change Hazards team develops robust and accessible coastal change assessments, forecasts, and tools that help improve the lives,
Collecting sediment core with vibracore equipment at Mullet Key, FL
Dan Ciarletta (right) working alongside Julie Bernier (left) to collect a sediment core on Mullet Key, an island within Fort de Soto Park in Pinellas County, Florida. The core will be used to reconstruct the geologic history of the island.
Dan Ciarletta (right) working alongside Julie Bernier (left) to collect a sediment core on Mullet Key, an island within Fort de Soto Park in Pinellas County, Florida. The core will be used to reconstruct the geologic history of the island.
Studying How the Beach Changes at Madeira Beach, Florida
The importance of our Nation’s coasts is indisputable. They provide homes for people and animals alike, and support the Nation’s economy. The USGS Coastal Change Hazards team studies how our shorelines change over time, especially following extreme events such as storms and hurricanes.
The importance of our Nation’s coasts is indisputable. They provide homes for people and animals alike, and support the Nation’s economy. The USGS Coastal Change Hazards team studies how our shorelines change over time, especially following extreme events such as storms and hurricanes.
Eyes on Earth Episode 25 - Rising Seas
Sea levels are rising globally. In some places, it is rising more than others, threatening communities and people as storm surges reach further inland and inundate more land.
Sea levels are rising globally. In some places, it is rising more than others, threatening communities and people as storm surges reach further inland and inundate more land.
Timing is Everything: Fish, Wildlife, and Timing of Life Events
Timing is Everything: How Fish and Wildlife are Responding to Climate Change Through Shifts in the Timing of Life Events
Timing is Everything: How Fish and Wildlife are Responding to Climate Change Through Shifts in the Timing of Life Events
Sea-Level Rise, El Niño, and Storm Effects on Coastal Tidal Marshes
Tidal marshes exist as a transitional environment between the land and sea, and provides habitat to fish and wildlife, protects human developments from coastal flooding, and stores carbon at high density, among other important ecosystem services.
Tidal marshes exist as a transitional environment between the land and sea, and provides habitat to fish and wildlife, protects human developments from coastal flooding, and stores carbon at high density, among other important ecosystem services.
Juvenile Mangroves on Jim Foot Key, Florida
In Photo: Juvenile mangroves on eastern berm of Jim Foot Key, April 2019. Mangroves are intermingled with saltwort, the dominant live vegetation on the damaged berms, and standing dead mangroves. Grid is 25 cm high. The question is whether these trees will mature fast enough to protect the berm from rising sea level.
In Photo: Juvenile mangroves on eastern berm of Jim Foot Key, April 2019. Mangroves are intermingled with saltwort, the dominant live vegetation on the damaged berms, and standing dead mangroves. Grid is 25 cm high. The question is whether these trees will mature fast enough to protect the berm from rising sea level.
Dauphin Island, Alabama
A view of a vegetated inland coastline overlooking the water on Dauphin Island, Alabama. The island protects mainland Alabama’s coastal communities and resources from storms, while also providing recreational opportunities (fishing, beach tourism, etc.) and other economic benefits to the local community and state.
A view of a vegetated inland coastline overlooking the water on Dauphin Island, Alabama. The island protects mainland Alabama’s coastal communities and resources from storms, while also providing recreational opportunities (fishing, beach tourism, etc.) and other economic benefits to the local community and state.
Healthy elkhorn coral on the seafloor in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Healthy elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) on the seafloor along the southeastern coast of Buck Island, U.S. Virgin Islands. Elkhorn coral is one of many important reef-building species that create 3D structure on the seafloor. Coral reef structure provides habitat for marine life and helps break up waves as they approach the coastline.
Healthy elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) on the seafloor along the southeastern coast of Buck Island, U.S. Virgin Islands. Elkhorn coral is one of many important reef-building species that create 3D structure on the seafloor. Coral reef structure provides habitat for marine life and helps break up waves as they approach the coastline.
Coasts, Storms, and Sea Level Rise Geonarratives
Explore our Nation's coasts and the risks they face from sea level rise, high-tide flooding, accelerated erosion and intensifying storms. Learn how USGS science is used to forecast coastal change forecasts in real-time, and how we can apply our knowledge to improving coastal resilience into the future.
Climate change poses significant risks to coasts, from sea level rise and high-tide flooding to accelerated erosion and intensifying storms. USGS scientists help coastal communities better understand climate change impacts, inform emergency responses, and provide insights to improve resilience and preserve coastal resources in the future.
How does Climate Change Affect U.S. Coasts?
Millions of Americans live and play along the coast. Coastal counties are home to 127 million people (and growing!), accounting for $8.6 trillion in goods and services each year. Coastal communities are well acquainted with the realities of living by the ocean – the storms, the waves, the salt, the sand. Yet climate change is altering the Nation’s coastal landscapes, creating new challenges for these communities that they are seldom equipped to face.
Media
Rising global temperatures create warmer oceans and, in turn, warmer and wetter ocean breezes. These factors feed tropical storms and create longer, more destructive hurricane seasons. The 2010s saw twice as many tropical cyclones as the 1980s and nearly ten times as much related property damage ($476 billion compared to $41 billion). Warming trends also mean that hurricanes are moving farther north, leaving new communities at risk of devastating storms. Learn more about USGS work with extreme storms.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
Warmer temperatures mean less ice. As ice melts, it releases huge amounts of water previously stored in sea ice and glaciers into the world’s oceans. Warmer water is also “bigger” -- water increases in volume as temperatures rise. Combined, these factors cause global sea levels to rise. Rising water levels worsen seasonal tidal flooding, creating high-tide and sunny day flooding. They also leave roads, houses, marinas, and even whole islands underwater. Even small amounts of sea level rise can damage sensitive coastal and marine ecosystems by flooding wetland and seagrass ecosystems and damaging mangroves. Learn more about USGS work on sea level rise.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
Intense storms and higher seas create more winds, waves, and floods, leading to increased coastal erosion. Hurricanes can wash away sandy barrier islands, leaving coastlines and islands unprotected from storm surge. Waves and winds can carry away beach sand little by little, shrinking scenic beaches. Erosion also exposes human infrastructure and sensitive archeological sites to tides and storms. Many beaches along the Nation’s coastline have lost more than six feet of shoreline a year over the last century. Coastal erosion estimates for much of the country are expected to increase in coming decades. Learn more about USGS work on coastal erosion.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
USGS Helps Communities Understand New Coastal Hazards
By helping people understand and respond to coastal change, the USGS helps communities become resilient to coastal hazards now and in the future.
USGS researchers use on-the-ground field work, high-resolution data, and modeling to help communities understand and respond to changes in coastal landscapes. Federal, Tribal, state, and local offices around the country use USGS data to inform coastal management and strategic planning. Some use our science to plan evacuation notices, inform city planning, and construct storm-resistant infrastructure. Others use USGS habitat assessments and decision support tools to restore coastal ecosystems, developing “green infrastructure” that can buffer against future storm damage and coastal erosion.
Our science helps to:
-
Forecast future storms, floods, and coastal erosion, and predict the resulting impacts on coasts
-
Build a better understanding of coastal ecosystems
-
Understand climate change impacts to coastal ecosystems and communities
-
Develop decision support tools to help coastal communities prepare for and recover from storms, floods, and erosion
-
Restore and protect coastal ecosystems that absorb greenhouse gasses, reducing the effects of climate change (blue carbon)
Science
Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS)
Software for calculating positional boundary change over time The Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) version 6 is a standalone application that calculates shoreline or boundary change over time. The GIS of a user’s choice is used to prepare the data for DSAS. Like previous versions, DSAS v.6 enables a user to calculate rate-of-change statistics from multiple historical shoreline positions...
Coastal Climate Impacts
The impacts of climate change and sea-level rise around the Pacific and Arctic Oceans can vary tremendously. Thus far the vast majority of national and international impact assessments and models of coastal climate change have focused on low-relief coastlines that are not near seismically active zones. Furthermore, the degree to which extreme waves and wind will add further stress to coastal...
Dynamic coastlines along the western U.S.
The west coast of the United States is extremely complex and changeable because of tectonic activity, mountain building, and land subsidence. These active environments pose a major challenge for accurately assessing climate change impacts, since models were historically developed for more passive sandy coasts.
The Impact of Sea-Level Rise and Climate Change on Pacific Ocean Atolls
Providing basic understanding and specific information on storm-wave inundation of atoll islands that house Department of Defense installations, and assessing the resulting impact of sea-level rise and storm-wave inundation on infrastructure and freshwater availability under a variety of sea-level rise and climatic scenarios.
Climate impacts to Arctic coasts
The Arctic region is warming faster than anywhere else in the nation. Understanding the rates and causes of coastal change in Alaska is needed to identify and mitigate hazards that might affect people and animals that call Alaska home.
Multimedia
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist
Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.
Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ferdinand Oberle, Research Geologist
Along reef-lined shores of the Pacific Islands, USGS Research Geologist and Oceanographer Ferdinand Oberle studies how warming surface waters, nutrient runoff, and increasingly powerful storms impact coral reefs.
Along reef-lined shores of the Pacific Islands, USGS Research Geologist and Oceanographer Ferdinand Oberle studies how warming surface waters, nutrient runoff, and increasingly powerful storms impact coral reefs.
Eyes on Earth Episode 68 - Tracking Mangroves by Satellite
The sturdy root systems of mangrove forests act as buffer zones along the coastlines of some of the planet’s most vulnerable communities, protecting lives, ecosystems and property from the rigors of hurricanes and tsunamis.
The sturdy root systems of mangrove forests act as buffer zones along the coastlines of some of the planet’s most vulnerable communities, protecting lives, ecosystems and property from the rigors of hurricanes and tsunamis.
Tidal Marshland in the Plum Island Estuary, Massachusetts
The marshes of Plum Island Estuary are among those predicted by scientists to submerge during the next century under conservative projections of sea-level rise.
The marshes of Plum Island Estuary are among those predicted by scientists to submerge during the next century under conservative projections of sea-level rise.
Ridge-to-Reef and Icefield-to-Ocean: Collaborative Research in Extreme Environments
Steep watersheds with dramatic environmental gradients are common features of both the Pacific Islands and Southeast Alaska.
Steep watersheds with dramatic environmental gradients are common features of both the Pacific Islands and Southeast Alaska.
COP26-Communities on the Frontline-Jerilyn Kelly from Quinhagak, AK
This video was prepared for Douglas Beard's presentation at COP26, Communities on the Frontline. Jerilyn Kelly, from Quinhagak, AK shares video and photographs from her community and some of the climate related challenges her community faces. She describes how erosion and permafrost degradation impact her community and their housing.
This video was prepared for Douglas Beard's presentation at COP26, Communities on the Frontline. Jerilyn Kelly, from Quinhagak, AK shares video and photographs from her community and some of the climate related challenges her community faces. She describes how erosion and permafrost degradation impact her community and their housing.
Secrets of the Sediment on Barrier Islands
Join the USGS St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center as they uncover the secrets of the sediment on barrier islands in Pinellas County, Florida. This video was originally created for use at the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
Join the USGS St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center as they uncover the secrets of the sediment on barrier islands in Pinellas County, Florida. This video was originally created for use at the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
Hawai'i Island: Voices From Community-Based Climate Adaptation
Release: Climate Change Reduces Coral Reefs' Ability to Protect Coasts
Explore some of the many USGS science projects on coastal change, storms, and sea level rise.
Filter Total Items: 37
Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS)
Software for calculating positional boundary change over time The Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) version 6 is a standalone application that calculates shoreline or boundary change over time. The GIS of a user’s choice is used to prepare the data for DSAS. Like previous versions, DSAS v.6 enables a user to calculate rate-of-change statistics from multiple historical shoreline positions...
Coastal Climate Impacts
The impacts of climate change and sea-level rise around the Pacific and Arctic Oceans can vary tremendously. Thus far the vast majority of national and international impact assessments and models of coastal climate change have focused on low-relief coastlines that are not near seismically active zones. Furthermore, the degree to which extreme waves and wind will add further stress to coastal...
Dynamic coastlines along the western U.S.
The west coast of the United States is extremely complex and changeable because of tectonic activity, mountain building, and land subsidence. These active environments pose a major challenge for accurately assessing climate change impacts, since models were historically developed for more passive sandy coasts.
The Impact of Sea-Level Rise and Climate Change on Pacific Ocean Atolls
Providing basic understanding and specific information on storm-wave inundation of atoll islands that house Department of Defense installations, and assessing the resulting impact of sea-level rise and storm-wave inundation on infrastructure and freshwater availability under a variety of sea-level rise and climatic scenarios.
Climate impacts to Arctic coasts
The Arctic region is warming faster than anywhere else in the nation. Understanding the rates and causes of coastal change in Alaska is needed to identify and mitigate hazards that might affect people and animals that call Alaska home.
State of Our Nation's Coast
Discover USGS products, tools, and data with the Coastal Science Navigator! The Coastal Science Navigator serves as a gateway to USGS Coastal Change Hazards resources and assists users in finding products and tools that will meet their specific needs.
CASC Extreme Weather Highlights
Climate change can intensify extreme weather events such as hurricanes, heat waves, and floods, devastating human and ecological communities and fundamentally shifting ecosystem and water dynamics in the region. The CASC network produces knowledge, data, and tools to understand and predict extreme weather events and help develop strategies for protecting communities and ecosystems.
Coastal Storm Modeling System (CoSMoS)
The Coastal Storm Modeling System (CoSMoS) makes detailed predictions of storm-induced coastal flooding, erosion, and cliff failures over large geographic scales. CoSMoS was developed for hindcast studies, operational applications and future climate scenarios to provide emergency responders and coastal planners with critical storm-hazards information that can be used to increase public safety...
Coastal Resource Evaluation for Management Application (CREMA)
Coastal environments are dynamic systems that provide high ecological, economical, recreational, and cultural value. Managing coastal systems requires a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between geological and ecological processes, as well as the ability to predict both the near-term and long-term impacts of storms and sea-level rise. The Coastal Resource Evaluation for...
COAWST: A Coupled-Ocean-Atmosphere-Wave-Sediment Transport Modeling System
Understanding the processes responsible for coastal change is important for managing both our natural and economic coastal resources. Storms are one of the primary driving forces causing coastal change from a coupling of wave- and wind-driven flows. To better understand storm impacts and their effects on our coastlines, there is an international need to better predict storm paths and intensities...
Coastal Change Hazards - Technical Capabilities and Applications
The Technical Capabilities and Applications (TCA) component of the Coastal Change Hazards (CCH) program focus leverages technical talent across the Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program (CMHRP) to bridge capability, expertise, and cooperation between the three Coastal and Marine Science Centers: Woods Hole, Massachusetts; St. Petersburg, Florida; and Santa Cruz, California. TCA provides...
Coastal Change Hazards - Stakeholder Engagement and Communications
An important role of the Coastal Change Hazards (CCH) program focus is to foster communication and information exchange, promote collaboration, build partnerships, and connect people with CCH knowledge, data, and tools. Coastal communities and practitioners need scientific information to support decisions regarding development, economics, environmental health, and public safety along the coast...
Check out some of the amazing USGS photos, videos, podcasts, and webinars on coastal change, sea level rise, and storms.
Filter Total Items: 24
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ann Gibbs, Geologist
Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.
Geologist Ann Gibbs studies the vulnerability of the rapidly-warming Alaska coast to climate change effects like sea level rise and permafrost thawing.
Climate Science Champions, Season 2: Ferdinand Oberle, Research Geologist
Along reef-lined shores of the Pacific Islands, USGS Research Geologist and Oceanographer Ferdinand Oberle studies how warming surface waters, nutrient runoff, and increasingly powerful storms impact coral reefs.
Along reef-lined shores of the Pacific Islands, USGS Research Geologist and Oceanographer Ferdinand Oberle studies how warming surface waters, nutrient runoff, and increasingly powerful storms impact coral reefs.
Eyes on Earth Episode 68 - Tracking Mangroves by Satellite
The sturdy root systems of mangrove forests act as buffer zones along the coastlines of some of the planet’s most vulnerable communities, protecting lives, ecosystems and property from the rigors of hurricanes and tsunamis.
The sturdy root systems of mangrove forests act as buffer zones along the coastlines of some of the planet’s most vulnerable communities, protecting lives, ecosystems and property from the rigors of hurricanes and tsunamis.
Tidal Marshland in the Plum Island Estuary, Massachusetts
The marshes of Plum Island Estuary are among those predicted by scientists to submerge during the next century under conservative projections of sea-level rise.
The marshes of Plum Island Estuary are among those predicted by scientists to submerge during the next century under conservative projections of sea-level rise.
Ridge-to-Reef and Icefield-to-Ocean: Collaborative Research in Extreme Environments
Steep watersheds with dramatic environmental gradients are common features of both the Pacific Islands and Southeast Alaska.
Steep watersheds with dramatic environmental gradients are common features of both the Pacific Islands and Southeast Alaska.
COP26-Communities on the Frontline-Jerilyn Kelly from Quinhagak, AK
This video was prepared for Douglas Beard's presentation at COP26, Communities on the Frontline. Jerilyn Kelly, from Quinhagak, AK shares video and photographs from her community and some of the climate related challenges her community faces. She describes how erosion and permafrost degradation impact her community and their housing.
This video was prepared for Douglas Beard's presentation at COP26, Communities on the Frontline. Jerilyn Kelly, from Quinhagak, AK shares video and photographs from her community and some of the climate related challenges her community faces. She describes how erosion and permafrost degradation impact her community and their housing.
Secrets of the Sediment on Barrier Islands
Join the USGS St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center as they uncover the secrets of the sediment on barrier islands in Pinellas County, Florida. This video was originally created for use at the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
Join the USGS St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center as they uncover the secrets of the sediment on barrier islands in Pinellas County, Florida. This video was originally created for use at the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
Hawai'i Island: Voices From Community-Based Climate Adaptation
Release: Climate Change Reduces Coral Reefs' Ability to Protect Coasts
Hurricane Ida Water Footprint Data Visualization
Hurricane Ida made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Louisiana, and brought widespread precipitation and flooding along its path and up the northeastern coast of U.S. in the following week.
Hurricane Ida made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Louisiana, and brought widespread precipitation and flooding along its path and up the northeastern coast of U.S. in the following week.
Reducing Flood Risks by Restoring Coral Reefs
R/V Sallenger and an oceanographic buoy
A solar-powered Sofar spotter buoy floats in the water next to the R/V (Research Vessel) Sallenger.
A solar-powered Sofar spotter buoy floats in the water next to the R/V (Research Vessel) Sallenger.
USGS Coastal Change Hazards
The USGS Coastal Change Hazards team works to identify and address the Nation’s coastal change hazards problems. By integrating research, technical capabilities and applications, and stakeholder engagement and communications, the Coastal Change Hazards team develops robust and accessible coastal change assessments, forecasts, and tools that help improve the lives,
The USGS Coastal Change Hazards team works to identify and address the Nation’s coastal change hazards problems. By integrating research, technical capabilities and applications, and stakeholder engagement and communications, the Coastal Change Hazards team develops robust and accessible coastal change assessments, forecasts, and tools that help improve the lives,
Collecting sediment core with vibracore equipment at Mullet Key, FL
Dan Ciarletta (right) working alongside Julie Bernier (left) to collect a sediment core on Mullet Key, an island within Fort de Soto Park in Pinellas County, Florida. The core will be used to reconstruct the geologic history of the island.
Dan Ciarletta (right) working alongside Julie Bernier (left) to collect a sediment core on Mullet Key, an island within Fort de Soto Park in Pinellas County, Florida. The core will be used to reconstruct the geologic history of the island.
Studying How the Beach Changes at Madeira Beach, Florida
The importance of our Nation’s coasts is indisputable. They provide homes for people and animals alike, and support the Nation’s economy. The USGS Coastal Change Hazards team studies how our shorelines change over time, especially following extreme events such as storms and hurricanes.
The importance of our Nation’s coasts is indisputable. They provide homes for people and animals alike, and support the Nation’s economy. The USGS Coastal Change Hazards team studies how our shorelines change over time, especially following extreme events such as storms and hurricanes.
Eyes on Earth Episode 25 - Rising Seas
Sea levels are rising globally. In some places, it is rising more than others, threatening communities and people as storm surges reach further inland and inundate more land.
Sea levels are rising globally. In some places, it is rising more than others, threatening communities and people as storm surges reach further inland and inundate more land.
Timing is Everything: Fish, Wildlife, and Timing of Life Events
Timing is Everything: How Fish and Wildlife are Responding to Climate Change Through Shifts in the Timing of Life Events
Timing is Everything: How Fish and Wildlife are Responding to Climate Change Through Shifts in the Timing of Life Events
Sea-Level Rise, El Niño, and Storm Effects on Coastal Tidal Marshes
Tidal marshes exist as a transitional environment between the land and sea, and provides habitat to fish and wildlife, protects human developments from coastal flooding, and stores carbon at high density, among other important ecosystem services.
Tidal marshes exist as a transitional environment between the land and sea, and provides habitat to fish and wildlife, protects human developments from coastal flooding, and stores carbon at high density, among other important ecosystem services.
Juvenile Mangroves on Jim Foot Key, Florida
In Photo: Juvenile mangroves on eastern berm of Jim Foot Key, April 2019. Mangroves are intermingled with saltwort, the dominant live vegetation on the damaged berms, and standing dead mangroves. Grid is 25 cm high. The question is whether these trees will mature fast enough to protect the berm from rising sea level.
In Photo: Juvenile mangroves on eastern berm of Jim Foot Key, April 2019. Mangroves are intermingled with saltwort, the dominant live vegetation on the damaged berms, and standing dead mangroves. Grid is 25 cm high. The question is whether these trees will mature fast enough to protect the berm from rising sea level.
Dauphin Island, Alabama
A view of a vegetated inland coastline overlooking the water on Dauphin Island, Alabama. The island protects mainland Alabama’s coastal communities and resources from storms, while also providing recreational opportunities (fishing, beach tourism, etc.) and other economic benefits to the local community and state.
A view of a vegetated inland coastline overlooking the water on Dauphin Island, Alabama. The island protects mainland Alabama’s coastal communities and resources from storms, while also providing recreational opportunities (fishing, beach tourism, etc.) and other economic benefits to the local community and state.
Healthy elkhorn coral on the seafloor in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Healthy elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) on the seafloor along the southeastern coast of Buck Island, U.S. Virgin Islands. Elkhorn coral is one of many important reef-building species that create 3D structure on the seafloor. Coral reef structure provides habitat for marine life and helps break up waves as they approach the coastline.
Healthy elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) on the seafloor along the southeastern coast of Buck Island, U.S. Virgin Islands. Elkhorn coral is one of many important reef-building species that create 3D structure on the seafloor. Coral reef structure provides habitat for marine life and helps break up waves as they approach the coastline.
Coasts, Storms, and Sea Level Rise Geonarratives
Explore our Nation's coasts and the risks they face from sea level rise, high-tide flooding, accelerated erosion and intensifying storms. Learn how USGS science is used to forecast coastal change forecasts in real-time, and how we can apply our knowledge to improving coastal resilience into the future.