Rising hot spots could threaten Riviera hotspots

Rising sea levels could threaten Riviera hotspots by 2100 - Parts of the Alpes-Maritimes and Var could be underwater by the end of the century, according to new data from the French Geological Survey (BRGM) and climate experts. Interactive maps using IPCC climate projections show that major coastal areas like Nice Airport, the Old Port of Cannes, and the Giens Peninsula are at risk of submersion due to rising sea levels.

Since 1993, oceans have risen by around 10 cm, a trend that’s accelerating with melting ice and warmer waters. By 2100, sea levels may climb between 63 cm and 1 metre, posing a serious threat to 500 French towns and 20% of the national coastline. Experts caution the tools are still in development and don’t account for sea walls or future defences. But they warn that areas like Hyères, Menton, Antibes, and Monaco must begin planning for long-term coastal impacts. “This isn’t about panic, it’s about being prepared,” said BRGM scientist Gonéri Le Cozannet, who helped lead the EU project behind the mapping tools.

 

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