As required by a 2014 state statute, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has issued official sea level rise projections effective February 22. They reflect a range of possible scenarios; at the high end, sea level in the New York City area could rise 75 inches (6.2 feet) by the year 2100.

Now that they are embodied in a formal regulation (6 NYCRR Pt. 490), these projections may begin to affect a broad range of decisions in building and infrastructure siting, design, construction and materials; insurance and financing; securities disclosure; and estate planning.

Projections