Santa Barbara Airport faces increased flooding risk from climate change and sea level rise

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

The January 15, 2025, Airport Commission meeting held by the City Council of Santa Barbara focused on a comprehensive climate vulnerability assessment and risk evaluation for the Santa Barbara Airport. The presentation, delivered by an engineer and hydrologist from Environmental Science Associates (ESA), outlined the first phase of a three-part climate adaptation plan aimed at addressing the impacts of climate change and sea level rise on airport operations.

The assessment, funded by a grant from the Coastal Commission, builds on previous planning efforts, including the City of Santa Barbara Adaptation Plan and the Galita Slough Management Plan from 2015. The primary goal is to inform adaptation strategies in light of projected climate changes, particularly concerning flooding risks.

Key findings from the assessment revealed that the airport is at significant risk from both sea level rise and increased precipitation due to climate change. The analysis identified three sea level rise scenarios: a near-term increase of 0.8 feet by 2048, a mid-term rise of 2.5 feet by 2076, and a long-term rise of 6.6 feet by 2130. The assessment indicated that flooding events, particularly in the northwest quadrant of the airport, are expected to increase in frequency and severity, with a 100% chance of flooding occurring annually with a 2.5-foot rise.

The presentation also highlighted that the primary cause of flooding at the airport is creek flooding rather than oceanic influences. Current models predict that precipitation events, which historically occurred once every five years, could happen every 2.5 years in the future, significantly impacting airport operations.

Economic implications were also discussed, with projections estimating that runway closures due to flooding could lead to substantial financial losses. An average storm could result in losses of approximately $68 million by 2075, while severe storms could incur losses of up to $158 million. The analysis indicated that passengers would bear a significant portion of these losses, with airlines also facing increased operational costs.

In terms of habitat changes, the assessment noted that rising sea levels would lead to a shift in local ecosystems, potentially resulting in the loss of marsh habitats critical for various species.

The meeting concluded with discussions on next steps, including community engagement and the development of adaptation strategies. The consultant emphasized the importance of considering both immediate and long-term planning to address the challenges posed by climate change and to ensure the airport's operational viability in the future. Public comments on the assessment are open until January 16, 2025, with further reports and findings to be made available on the airport's website.

Converted from January 15, 2025 Airport Commission meeting on January 21, 2025
Link to Full Meeting