AN interactive map has shown how several areas of Cumbria could be underwater by the end of the decade.
Created by an independent organisation of scientists and journalists, collectively known as Climate Central, the map shows areas of the country that could be under sea level by the end of 2030.
The map uses current projections and peer-reviewed science in leading journals.
Areas like Anthorn, Skinburness Creek, Whitrigg, and parts of Silloth are affected in the north and west of the county, with Skinburness Creek being nearly fully submerged on the map.
Looking north from Silloth to Skinburness, and beyond to Grune Point. Across the Wampool estuary is Anthorn, and beyond that the Solway Firth and Scotland (Image: Simon Ledingham)
Further down the west coast, Mawbray is partially submerged, as well as Maryport and Workington – while Whitehaven remains relatively unchanged.
Some of the coast’s railway stations will be packed in by 2030, such as Nethertown, Braystones, and Sellafield, according to the map.
Nethertown railway station (Image: John Holmes)
Further south, Newbiggin and Ravenglass may not look the same, with much of its areas near the River Esk submerged.
In South Cumbria, the flooding projections are worse.
Much of Walney Island is affected, as well as Askham-in-Furness, Barrow-in-Furness, Arnside, Goadsbarrow, Meathop, and Ulpha.
Coastal erosion at Walney (Image: Ben North)
Leisure-seekers hoping for fun in the south better get their skates on, as the Grange-over-Sands Golf Club and the Haven Lakeland Leisure Park will become waterparks by 2030, according to the map.
Flooding at Grange-over-Sands Golf Club (Image: Leslie Micklethwaite)
Climate Central maps are not based on physical storm and flood simulations and do not take into account factors such as erosion, future changes in the frequency or intensity of storms, inland flooding, or contributions from rainfall or rivers.
A spokesman for Climate Central said: “As these maps incorporate big datasets, which always include some error, these maps should be regarded as screening tools to identify places that may require deeper investigation of risk.
“Our approach makes it easy to map any scenario quickly and reflects threats from permanent future sea level rises as well.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel