Final answer:
Storm surge, caused by hurricane winds and low atmospheric pressure, leads to sudden sea level rises that, when combined with climate change-induced sea level rise, can devastate coastal areas, as seen with Hurricane Katrina.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Storm Surge and Sea Level Rise
When a hurricane makes landfall, it can cause sea levels to rise dramatically, creating a phenomenon known as storm surge. This surge is a sudden rise in sea level in coastal areas, significantly exacerbated by the strong winds of a storm or hurricane that blow onshore. The low atmospheric pressure associated with these weather systems also contributes to a local swell in water level. When coupled with high tide and heavy waves, it can lead to significant coastline retreat and increased flooding.
Climate change is also a driver of sea level rise, as it results in the melting of land ice and thermal expansion of ocean water. The current increase in mean sea level, although it appears minimal on daily basis, poses a substantial threat during storm events. It can lead to the destruction of human-engineered structures and has profound implications for coastal cities. The economic inequality and racial divisions can be highlighted during such catastrophic events, as seen with Hurricane Katrina's impact in 2005.