A significant change in sea levels, and increased frequency of king tides in the coming years are cause for concern, but we emphasize that these events are not unmanageable. South Florida, like any other region, must grow and adapt. We believe the solution is to build better, build higher, and build resilient infrastructure. Credit: Steve Heap/Adobe Stock A significant change in sea levels, and increased frequency of king tides in the coming years are cause for concern, but we emphasize that these events are not unmanageable. South Florida, like any other region, must grow and adapt. We believe the solution is to build better, build higher and build resilient infrastructure. Credit: Steve Heap/Adobe Stock

It is no secret that rising sea levels and stormwater flooding threaten South Florida's coastal communities. South Florida sits atop limestone and muck (mud), which is porous and allows water to rise from underneath, creating a unique dilemma: Sea level rise will cause water to penetrate the ground from underneath as well as spill over land barriers.

Miami-Dade County and the surrounding areas have begun planning to address these risks. Over time, the county and many cities have established climate resiliency offices to address flooding and stormwater concerns, mapping out zones that they deemed high risk and developing solutions. Some measures have been taken to combat these concerns, such as installing stormwater pumps, raising roads and improving drainage. However, these measures alone will not provide enough relief.

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