"South Florida Sounds The Alarm Amid Threat Of Rising Sea Levels"

"One of the most vulnerable areas in the country isn't prepared to deal with climate change."

"Outdated and fast-aging flood control mechanisms won’t be enough to protect South Florida amid a rapidly-changing climate and rising sea levels. Local publications and activists are sounding the alarm about the region’s lack of preparedness, with sea levels set to rise at least 2 feet by 2060.

A partnership between the editorial boards of the Miami Herald, South Florida Sun Sentinel, and Palm Beach Post is aiming to draw attention to the threat rising sea levels pose to South Florida. With assistance from WLRN Public Media, the election year effort is meant to hold Florida lawmakers accountable and ensure action. That includes calling for Congress to prioritize the vulnerable area swiftly.

In an editorial published Sunday, the Miami Herald drew attention to South Florida’s aging flood-control system, which is between 50 and 70 years old. The current system, involving 2,000 miles of canals overseen by the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), prevents saltwater from reaching the mainland and separates canal water from the sea. Rising seas pose a threat to that balance, the Herald says."

E.A. Crunden reports for Think Progress May 7, 2018.