ABSTRACT
The recently published report of the New York City Panel on Climate Change (NPCC) indicates that climate change poses a challenge for waterfront development in New York City (NYC), given the uncertain risks of sea-level rise and more flooding (NPCC, 2010). The NPCC states that NYC is vulnerable to coastal storm surges, which are associated with either late summer–autumn hurricanes or extra-tropical cyclones in the winter period (‘nor’easters’). Climate change and sea-level rise is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of flood events, and although these events are relatively rare, it is relevant to address flood risks in current and planned urban development activities, such as waterfronts, because they can cause considerable losses (Aerts et al, 2009).
