NEWBURYPORT — Storm Surge will host “High Stakes at High Tide: Understanding Coastal Flood Risks” on Thursday, June 12, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Newburyport Senior/Community Center, 331 High St.
The free event features Katie Giannakopoulos, coastal dynamics research associate at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute, who will examine the complex factors driving coastal flood risks in New England.
Her presentation will address both long-term climate change impacts and the immediate threats posed by severe weather events, including an analysis of the devastating January 2024 storms that significantly affected Gulf of Maine communities.
“Sea levels are rising, bringing both challenges and opportunities for coastal communities,” Giannakopoulos said. “We’ll explore how science and community action can transform vulnerability into strength and examine what it truly means to live and thrive at the water’s edge.”
The presentation will cover: forces driving coastal change, from gradual climate shifts to sudden storm impacts; lessons learned from the January 2024 storm events; science-based approaches to improving community preparedness; and strategies for building long-term coastal resilience
This free community event is part of Storm Surge’s 2025 Speaker Series, designed to inform and engage residents about critical environmental issues affecting the region. No registration is required, though advance notice helps organizers plan for adequate seating and refreshments.
Residents interested in attending can indicate their plans at: secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/b8ssZmPgFKsOUxiqCbGzhA.
For those who cannot attend in person, the talk will be streamed live on Port Media CH 9 and the NCMhub website starting at 7 p.m.