Rising Seas Threaten Historic Alexandria

Recent research highlights the alarming rise in building collapses in Alexandria, Egypt, with incidents increasing from one per year to about 40, Earth.com reported. Researchers attribute this trend to sea-level rise and seawater intrusion, signaling a significant threat to the city’s historic structures.

Essam Heggy, a water scientist, emphasizes that the loss extends beyond physical buildings, reflecting the gradual disappearance of cultural heritage. Even minor sea-level increases can destabilize foundations, leading to widespread destruction.

The study, which analyzed data from 2001 to 2021, employed digital mapping and satellite imagery to reveal significant coastal retreat. Chemical isotope analysis confirmed that seawater intrusion is eroding foundations from below.

Proposed solutions include nature-based coastal defenses, such as sand dunes and vegetation, aimed at slowing seawater encroachment. The researchers stress the urgency of preserving Alexandria’s architectural legacy as a vital aspect of cultural identity amid escalating climate challenges. The findings are published in Earth’s Future, an AGU journal.