This map shows where increases in sea level could affect New Orleans, Virginia Beach, Va., Miami, Tampa, Fla., New York and Washington, D.C. The colors indicate areas along the coast that are elevations of 1 meter or less (russet) or 6 meters or less (yellow) and have connectivity to the sea. (Map by Jeremy Weiss, University of Arizona)

A team of researchers at the University of Arizona has projected how future sea level rise will impact 180 of the largest coastal cities in the U.S. Their maps show that on average, 9% of land could be submerged by 2100.

“According to the most recent sea-level-rise science, that’s where we’re heading,” said lead researcher Jeremy L. Weiss, a senior research specialist in the UA’s department of geosciences. “Impacts from sea-level rise could be erosion, temporary flooding and permanent inundation.”

According to the maps produced on the right, Miami, Virginia Beach, and New Orleans will be particularly hard-hit. What will these cities do? For some, building sea walls to keep out rising waters will be built, but for others, the cost may be too great and residents will be forced to cede their land to the sea.

This map shows where increases in sea level could affect the southern and Gulf coasts of the US. The colors indicate areas along the coast that are elevations of 1 meter or less (russet) or 6 meters or less (yellow) and have connectivity to the sea. (Map by Jeremy Weiss, University of Arizona)