Hong Kong is fortifying its defenses against coastal flooding by integrating high-resolution Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) with projections of future sea-level rise (SLR). This innovative approach aims to improve the accuracy of flood predictions, informing effective urban planning and disaster mitigation strategies.
The Hong Kong Lands Department has developed a comprehensive 5-meter grid DTM, providing a detailed representation of the region's topography. This model, derived from aerial photographs, offers a robust foundation for flood modeling and risk assessment. Accuracy is within ±5 meters at a 90% confidence level.
Projections indicate a significant rise in sea levels along Hong Kong's coastline due to climate change. By integrating the DTM with SLR scenarios, researchers can simulate potential inundation areas and assess the impacts of future coastal flooding. This enables the identification of at-risk regions, facilitating targeted mitigation measures.
Ongoing studies are refining these models by incorporating additional variables such as storm surges and precipitation patterns. The upcoming Convection-Permitting Climate Modeling (CPCM) Workshop will address these challenges. This advancement enhances Hong Kong's resilience against climate-induced challenges, safeguarding infrastructure and residents.