Ocean City is home to some 7,000 year-round residents, but its population swells to more than 300,000 on summer weekends as vacationers from the region flock to its boardwalk, beaches, and fishing. Leisure and hospitality have recently accounted for the most growth in private-sector jobs in Maryland, putting Ocean City in a key position in the state economy. A recent report, however, outlines the potential for sea level rise to significantly affect jobs in the state.
Encroaching Tides
Because it sits on a fragile barrier island, Ocean City is highly vulnerable to flooding from storms and high tides—more so with sea level rise. While tidal flooding occurs about eight times a year today, the city is projected to face some 30 tidal floods each year by 2030, and more than 170 by 2045. These floods would be far more extensive than the limited flooding typically seen today—more along the lines of flooding associated with heavy rain or strong winds.
Sea level rise is also expected to worsen coastal erosion in coming decades, exposing Ocean City to even more flooding. Aware of the threat a rising sea poses to its tourism infrastructure, the town now requires developers to elevate new buildings, and the city council has drafted a policy to raise streets during periodic upgrades.
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