A recent report from Moody’s Analytics highlights the severe impact climate change may have on U.S. cities, identifying metro areas most at risk from sea-level rise, extreme heat, and water stress.
Cities like San Francisco, New York City, and Phoenix are among those facing the highest risks, according to the analysis.
The report evaluates cities based on long-term risks such as drought, extreme heat, and sea-level rise, as well as short-term threats including hurricanes, wildfires, and floods.
It finds that large coastal cities like San Francisco, New York City, and those in Florida are especially vulnerable, while inland northern cities face relatively less severe impacts, with a few small metro areas potentially seeing minimal benefits.
Baton Rouge remains resilient with low risks despite Louisiana’s frequent climate disasters.San Francisco ranks as the most exposed city due to its overall high-risk profile across multiple climate hazards. New York City, surrounded by water and heavily reliant on low-lying land and subway systems, faces significant threats from sea-level rise and flooding.
In contrast, Phoenix and Tucson, while shielded from sea-level rise due to their inland locations, are highly susceptible to water stress.
The report also identifies metro areas with the least exposure to extreme climate risks. Baton Rouge, Louisiana stands out for its climate resilience, benefiting from ample freshwater resources and low sea-level rise risk, despite broader challenges in Louisiana with frequent hurricanes. Other less exposed cities include Detroit, Knoxville, Warren, and Dayton.
The analysis underscores the need for targeted policy changes to address the varied risks faced by different regions and enhance their resilience to climate change impacts.