Rising sea levels could affect some of these popular seaside towns as early as 2050, and many people wouldn’t want to see them go. Many Brits will have visited these coastal hotspots and may even have a day trip or staycation planned to visit one of them this summer. But rising sea levels mean these coastal spots could be under the sea in just 25 years, according to projections.
Research suggests that areas near Peterborough could be among the hardest hit, with significant water infiltration predicted. Further south, London is also expected to feel the effects, with the River Thames potentially overflowing its banks.
While the data from Climate Central may be concerning, it’s worth noting that many seaside towns are well prepared, with numerous coastal defence schemes already in place to tackle rising sea levels and prevent potential damage to local areas.
Weston-Super-Mare is one seaside destination which is at risk, reports MyLondon.
Located off the coast of Bristol this beach town draws nearly 750,000 visitors annually but in 27 years, it’s predicted that the entire beach and large parts of the surrounding areas will be consumed by the sea.
In fact, extensive areas along the Bristol coast are expected to be impacted by rising sea levels, reaching as far north as Gloucester.
Another seaside town at risk of being lost to the sea is Poole.
The coastline, comprising eight unique islands and a striking peninsula, offers numerous ways to make the most of a precious weekend getaway.
Poole’s seafront railway station will also be engulfed by the rising tide, inevitably forcing local authorities to adapt and relocate the transport links in and out of this popular seaside town.
Portsmouth also faces an uncertain future and is expected to be severely impacted by rising sea levels.
By 2050, it’s anticipated that the majority of this popular beach city will be submerged, leaving only a small strip of land untouched by the tide.
Rising sea levels are also predicted to impact the beaches of East and West Wittering in Chichester, as indicated by the red areas on the map.
West Wittering tends to attract more visitors, especially in the summer, but both offer breathtaking views out to sea, particularly at low tide when miles of sand are exposed.
Eastbourne in East Sussex is just an hour and a half from London, and is fast becoming a popular destination for summer day trips.
However, rising sea levels are expected to significantly affect the historic seaside town and nearby beaches like Pevensey Bay by 2050.
The sea is predicted to encroach far inland, reaching as far as Herstmonceux Castle within just 27 years.
Southend-on-Sea is a favourite summer destination for Londoners due to its close proximity to the capital, and is just under an hour’s train ride away.
Fortunately, by 2050, rising sea levels shouldn’t impact Southend-on-Sea too severely, but neighbouring beaches such as Roslin Beach, East Beach and Shoebury Common beach will be swallowed by the sea.