In recent years, a peculiar phenomenon known as ‘sunny day flooding’ or ‘nuisance flooding’ has been increasingly observed in Southern New Jersey. This type of flooding occurs on clear, calm days, with no rain or storms in sight, hence the name ‘sunny day.’ It is primarily driven by higher than usual tides, often linked to sea-level rise.
Understanding Sunny Day Flooding
Sunny day flooding, also known as high-tide flooding, occurs when tidal waters rise above the levels that coastal infrastructure was designed to accommodate. This event usually coincides with high tides and is exacerbated by factors such as sea-level rise, subsidence (sinking of land), and the loss of natural barriers.
Sea-Level Rise: The Primary Driver
The primary driver of increased sunny day flooding is sea-level rise, mainly from climate change. As global temperatures rise, polar ice melts, leading to an increase in ocean volume. Additionally, warmer water expands, contributing to higher sea levels. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that global sea levels could rise by 0.6 to 2 meters by 2100, depending on future greenhouse gas emissions.
The Impact in Southern New Jersey
Southern New Jersey, particularly the coastal regions, has witnessed a significant increase in sunny day flooding events. Cities like Atlantic City and Cape May have been particularly affected. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Atlantic City has seen a dramatic increase since the 1950s, with the frequency of such events expected to continue increasing.
These flooding events can disrupt daily life, with water inundating streets, blocking roads, damaging property, and overwhelming storm drains. While these floods are usually not as destructive as storm surges from hurricanes, their increasing frequency poses a significant challenge to local communities and infrastructure.
The Role of Local Land Subsidence
In addition to sea-level rise, land subsidence is contributing to the sunny day flooding problem in Southern New Jersey. Some areas are gradually sinking due to both natural processes and human activities such as groundwater extraction. This sinking can increase the relative sea-level rise and exacerbate the impact of tidal flooding.
Adapting to the New Reality
Communities in Southern New Jersey are working hard to adapt to this growing threat. Strategies include improving infrastructure resilience, modifying building codes, implementing natural flood barriers, and even relocating vulnerable communities.
The Need for Broader Climate Action
While local adaptation strategies are crucial, addressing sunny day flooding in the long term will require broader action in attempt to help climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Global action on climate change can help slow sea-level rise, giving communities more time to adapt to these changes.
Sunny day tidal flooding represents a clear and present challenge for Southern New Jersey, serving as a stark reminder of the tangible impacts of climate change. As sea levels continue to rise, such flooding events are projected to become more frequent and disruptive, requiring both local adaptation strategies and global efforts to mitigate climate change. Ultimately, the phenomenon underscores the urgent need for robust, coordinated action to safeguard our communities and the future of our planet.
