Severity of coastal flooding will double in near future, according to USGS

General contractor Brad Watkins has worked on the colorful Venetian homes in Capitola for years. Replacing windows, gutting floors and total remodels. But since the condos are right on the beach, he always has to account for flooding.

“Last winter during king tides we had waves come through on a Saturday night all the way through the condominiums in the spillway back into the creek,” said Watkins. “It was pretty phenomenal.”

According to a recent USGS study, the intensity of coastal flooding will double in the next few decades due to the rate sea levels are rising. By 2050, sea levels will rise four to eight inches, creating more powerful waves and storm surges.

“It’s important to realize that decisions have to be made today to lessen the impact in the future,” said Patrick Barnard with USGS.

The City of Capitola said it’s working with researchers at MBARI to create a model of what to expect in a 30-year window. This will help city officials come up with plans and solutions to the problem. For example, short term solutions include fortifying the wharf and maintaining sand at the beaches.

But many locals know, there’s only so much that can be done.

“You can’t mitigate mother nature,” added Watkins. “Period.”