Climate Change

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The environment of the Severn Estuary is one of the most dynamic in the UK, with changes in sea level, waves and storms all playing their part in shaping this coastline. Historical records show that severe storms have caused much coastal erosion and flooding, however, these extreme natural events are becoming more and more frequent. One of the biggest threats to the Estuary is from rising sea levels which, coupled with significant storm events, exacerbate the effects of coastal erosion and flooding. This causes significant issues for coastal planners, engineers, and local communities. The Severn Estuary coastline already boasts considerable defences, especially around the Wentlooge, Caldicot levels and Somerset Levels, with several small-scale localised defences existing elsewhere.