In Canada, where the total coastline exceeds 240,000 kilometres, sea level rise is a significant issue. Climate warming is expected to cause warming of the oceans and melting of glacier ice resulting in a global increase in sea level. A rise in sea level increases the level of wave attack and tides, causing changes in the stability of shorelines as well as flooding of lowlands.

Map 1 larger image [GIF, 60.8 kb, 718 X 538, notice]

Map 1 depicts the sensitivity of coastlines in Canada to an accelerated rise in sea level. The three main regions of high sensitivity include coastlines that have low relief, or low resistance to erosion; are exposed to high tidal ranges or high wave energy levels; or are areas presently experiencing rapid relative sea level rise due to crustal movements.

In the Maritimes, rising water levels could impact a wide range of human structures and activities. Flooding and dyke breaching in the Bay of Fundy is a particular concern. Portions of the Beaufort Sea coastline, including the community of Tuktoyaktuk, are also highly sensitive to sea level rise, and are now undergoing rapid coastal retreat, accentuated by melting of ground ice. The urbanized Fraser Delta near Vancouver could be sensitive to dyke breaching and flooding. Coastal archaeological sites on the Queen Charlotte Islands and other areas are also at risk from higher sea levels.

Contact: John Shaw