The Hawaiʻi Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission recently unveiled an updated version of the State of Hawaiʻi Sea Level Rise Viewer. This online tool is designed to provide communities and local officials with more precise data and projections regarding the increasing threats to the state's coastlines. The viewer offers valuable insights for informed decision-making in the face of rising sea levels, impacting various sectors from tourism to real estate.
The updated viewer builds on existing resources to provide more detailed assessments. According to the PacIOOS, scientific advancements in sea level rise observations and forecasting have been incorporated to enhance the tool's accuracy and utility. It allows users to visualize potential impacts of sea level rise through maps and photos. In addition, the NOAA Office for Coastal Management Sea Level Rise Viewer also allows the user to learn about data and methods. This is an essential resource for those who are planning coastal developments or investments. The viewer helps to assess the areas that are vulnerable.
The implications of these updates are significant for Hawaii's business landscape. Coastal businesses, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors, may need to reassess their infrastructure and long-term planning. Real estate developers and investors should integrate these sea-level rise projections into their risk assessments and due diligence processes when considering properties. Furthermore, the Hawaiʻi Sea Level Rise Vulnerability and Adaptation Report provides data on vulnerable areas, which can inform decisions about infrastructure development, insurance premiums, and the overall economic viability of coastal properties. The U.S. Climate Resilience Toolkit provides an interactive map to measure the exposure and vulnerability of the selected areas according to a certain increase in sea level.
This proactive approach is critical for mitigating risks and fostering sustainable economic growth in Hawaii. By utilizing the updated Sea Level Rise Viewer, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers can make more informed decisions, promoting resilience and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the islands.
