Damage from rising seas takes on many forms. Buildings and roads close to the water eventually will be flooded. These structures are also prone to damage from hurricanes and tropical storms. As the sea rises, beach erosion takes place, particularly on steep banks. Wetlands are lost as sea levels rise. In areas where dikes and walls are erected to protect populated areas, many of today's wetlands may disappear altogether, trapped by the sea on one side and civilization on the other.
Another serious problem is the threat of salt water intruding into fresh water aquifers in coastal areas. Many cities depend on these water sources. ***