Preparing for Climate Change

Delray Beach, FL

protecting Our Vibrant Coastal Community

Visionary and strategic investments in downtown Delray’s economic development have transformed it into the jewel of South Florida’s Gold Coast, attracting visitors and new businesses. This economic strength is a key asset of Delray Beach, one that will be increasingly challenged as the community confronts the impacts of a changing climate.
Climate change can lead to rising tides, hotter summers, wetter rainy seasons, and King Tides – all of which are affecting coastal communities. To help mitigate the effects of climate change, it is crucial to increase sustainability in the community. In addition, it is important to prepare for the effects of climate change and learn to Adapt by increasing resilience.
Whether it’s coastal flooding or saltwater intrusion, Delray Beach is on the offensive in the challenge of combating the problems which result from climate change. There are many projects under way and in the design process that will aid in the relief effort. You can read more about the City’s efforts under both the “Resilience” and “Sustainability” menu options.

Today’s Air Quality Index

Resilience

The Center for Climate and Energy Solutions defines Climate Resilience as the ability to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to hazardous events, trends, or disturbances related to climate. Resilient efforts include a broad range of actions and planning efforts, which will better prepare our community to handle the effects of climate change, including heavier rainfall events, stronger tropical storms, and higher sea levels.

Sustainability

An often-used definition for sustainability comes from the UN World Commission on Environment and Development, “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” In even more basic terms this means living in a way that minimizes waste of resources while enhancing quality of life. Sustainable practices purpose to provide a healthy, economically viable situation for our children, grandchildren, and future generations.

Delray Beach

Delray Beach is a diverse community situated on the Atlantic Ocean in south Palm Beach County. A small and intimate town with big-city sophistication, Delray Beach was voted Most Fun Small Town in America by Rand McNally and USA Today. Delray’s Atlantic Avenue, which runs through the center of town from I-95 to the ocean, is the longest main street in Florida. Our town is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, filled with art galleries, upscale shops, fine restaurants and nightly entertainment.
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The fact that Delray Beach is a slightly higher elevation may ” buy our community more time”, but it does not alter the future of rising sea level and increased extreme rain events. This “Extra time” should not lead to complacency, but rather to more strategic and thoughtful action.

Quick Links

The National Flood Insurance Program aims to reduce the impact of flooding on private and public structures.

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Use this web mapping tool to visualize community-level impacts from coastal flooding or sea level rise.

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A nonprofit focused on empowering homeowners to protect their property from flooding.

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