Final answer:
High-risk areas for flooding in Metro Vancouver include low-lying regions near the coast or river systems, such as the Fraser River delta. Urban planning and flood risk assessments are essential to mitigate potential impacts of sea level rise on critical infrastructure and densely populated areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
Metro Vancouver, like many other urban areas around the world, faces the risk of flooding due to rising sea levels and other climate-related changes. Reference to Figure 24.9.6 suggests that significant urban areas could be submerged with a relatively small rise in sea levels, severely affecting infrastructure such as airports, ports, and housing developments. While the specific high-risk areas in Metro Vancouver are not detailed here, the general rule is that low-lying areas close to sea level, particularly those near the coast or major river systems, would be at the highest risk.
For instance, based on the insights provided, areas such as the Fraser River delta, which include parts of Richmond, Delta, and potentially parts of the city of Vancouver that are close to sea level, would likely be at high risk. These are regions where the combination of being at or near sea level and the presence of critical infrastructure could lead to significant effects on urban life and the economy if a flood were to occur. Additionally, high-density residential areas that are built on floodplains or reclaimed land are also areas that would be vulnerable in such a scenario.
It is important for urban planners and policymakers to consider such flood risk assessments when planning for future developments and creating mitigation strategies to protect against the potential impacts of sea level rise and associated flooding events. Studies like those by Calder and Aylward (2006) advocate for an evidence-based approach to watershed and integrated flood management, which are crucial for areas like Metro Vancouver.