Final answer:
A tectonic hazard that could cause coastal flooding is a tsunami, a series of waves caused by seismic activity such as underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. Rising sea levels from climate change worsen the impact, and coastal vegetation can help mitigate effects. Coastal cities must prepare for these natural disaster risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tectonic Hazards and Coastal Flooding
One tectonic hazard that could cause coastal flooding is a tsunami, which is a series of large waves generated by seismic activities such as underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. When tectonic plates shift abruptly beneath the ocean floor, they can displace vast amounts of water, creating waves that gain height and momentum as they travel towards the coast. The 2011 earthquake off the east coast of Japan serves as a tragic example, where the resulting tsunami caused extensive damage to coastal regions and even led to catastrophic effects at nuclear energy facilities.
Coastal cities are particularly vulnerable to the effects of tsunamis and other tectonic hazards, exacerbated by climate change. Rising sea levels, caused by the melting of ice due to global warming, further contribute to the risk of coastal inundation. Increases in sea level not only make tsunami impacts more severe but also amplify the risks from storm surges during extreme weather events, leading to recurrent flooding and long-term economic and environmental consequences.
With the ongoing threats posed by climate change and tectonic activity, regions near coastlines face continuous danger. Preparedness and adaptation strategies, including coastal vegetation that can provide a protective role against tsunamis, are essential to mitigate the impacts of these natural disasters on human lives and infrastructure.