SCIENCE SUPPORTING THE DEVELOPMENT CLIMATE ADAPTATION STRATEGIES: LESSONS FROM THE SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY

The South Carolina Lowcountry is already experiencing the impact of climate change on a regular basis. Tidal, storm surge and rainfall event-based flooding make it one of America’s most vulnerable coastal regions. With the low elevation, a vast coastline, and estuary shorelines, flooding is the most important hazard to the residents of the region. However, rising water levels have already begun to impact the region, influencing infrastructure, property, and dollars. The increasing frequency of flooding and damage from these events has highlighted the need for better mapping and communication of the area’s most susceptible climate induced hazards. Which has translated into planning tools and strategies that are being implement across the region.

The low Country Hazards Center together with the South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium has been developing science-based products that help communities move to proactive planning, instead of reactive repair. This shift is essential to helping communities better adapt to the climate disruptions impacting communities across the country. Fluvial, Pluvial and Tidal models are helping communities better understand how future climate will impact their residents. The models and vulnerability maps show areas where flooding is most likely .Showing areas which will need action before problems become untenable. The maps allow planners to target parcels that are prone to chronic flooding and help provide owners plans and alternatives. Combining the vulnerability maps and models with an understanding the economics of the impacts is an essential part of the planning problem and part of making sure that all citizens have options not only those with means. Communities are beginning to move away for 5 – 10 year plans and thinking about 25 – 50 year strategies that will benefit all their citizens.