As climate change increases, cities such as Surabaya are more affected by rising sea levels. A recent study published in Nature Climate Change demonstrates the concerning link between ocean warming and the irreversible disappearance of the Antarctic ice sheet, underlining the critical need for cities worldwide to prepare for the effects of climate change.
The researchers in the study, increased ocean temperatures are causing ice melt in Antarctica, adding to rising sea levels that put at risk coastal cities. The effects are already seen in Surabaya, where the majority of the population lives close to the coast. Flooding during the rainy season is becoming increasingly common, with neighbourhoods being submerged, interrupting daily life and economic activity.
To get a personally perspective on these difficulties, I spoke to Reda Damar, a student at a university in Surabaya and also the resident of Surabaya, who revealed her concerns. "Every year, the flooding gets worse," he says. "We used to only see water on the streets when it rained hard, but now floods could happen even after a small rain. This affects our houses and livelihoods."
According to the study, if current trends continue, sea levels may rise dramatically, placing pressure on urban infrastructure and increasing existing vulnerabilities. Surabaya, a city famed for its rich cultural heritage and thriving economy, is under threat. Increased flooding has the potential to sweep away homes, schools, and businesses, lowering citizens quality of life.
One of the most concerning features of the situation is its disproportionate impact on low-income areas. Many families live in informal settlements near the seaside, where floods can ruin homes and displace people. "We don't have the resources to move or repair our homes," Reda Damar adds. "When the water came, we lost everything."
(Hill et al., 2024) found that the effects of ocean warming are not simply a threat in the future, but are already occurring. As the Antarctic ice sheet melts, the impact on cities such as Surabaya will only worsen. The experts warn that without quick effort to mitigate climate change and adapt urban infrastructure, the situation will deteriorate.
To deal with these issues, experts recommend a multifaceted approach. Investing in resilient infrastructure, strengthening drainage systems, and implementing efficient urban design can help to mitigate the effects of flooding. Public education on climate adaption solutions is also essential, allowing homeowners to take proactive steps to protect their houses.
The urgency of the situation cannot be emphasised. As global temperatures and sea levels rise, towns like Surabaya must prioritise climate resilience to ensure their future. Decisions made today will decide whether communities can adapt or face a variable and volatile future.
As climate change continues to impact our globe, maintaining the safety and well-being of vulnerable coastal city people must become a global priority. The moment to act is now, before the tides of climate change wash away previous gains and endanger the lives of millions of people. Flooding during the rainy season is becoming increasingly common.
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Hill, E. A., Gudmundsson, G. H., & Chandler, D. M. (2024). Ocean warming as a trigger for irreversible retreat of the Antarctic ice sheet. Nature Climate Change. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41558-024-02134-8
