Approximately 20% of Ireland's coast is at risk of coastal erosion. That's according to the EPA, who say rising sea levels will contribute to the issue.
Several areas of Waterford's coastline, including Portally Cove, have recently been subject to landslides.
Local Councillor Jim Griffin raised his concerns to WLR this morning on Déise Today, saying the conditions are dangerous in several locations across the County.
"The saturation levels on cliff tops and dunes are at breaking point. The tendency is to go to the edge and take in the beauty and the glory of our coastline, but people need to remain cautious."
Pictures below are several areas impacted by coastal erosion in County Waterford.
Coastal erosion, County Waterford, taken by Councillor Jim Griffin
Coastal erosion, County Waterford, taken by Councillor Jim Griffin
Coastal erosion, County Waterford, taken by Councillor Jim Griffin
Coastal erosion at Boatstrand, photo: Joan Tubbritt
According to the EPA:
- Ireland has a coastline of approximately 7400 km, comprising of extensive rock-dominated coasts along the southwestern, western, and northern coasts and soft sediment-dominated coast along the east and southeast. The west coast is also characterised by major sedimentary areas in the form of large bays and estuaries.
- Currently, approximately 20% of Ireland's coast is at risk of coastal erosion. The coasts most susceptible to coastal erosion are those composed of unconsolidated (soft) sediment. These areas are most common on Ireland's eastern and southern coasts and also in isolated areas, sedimentary bays, on western and northern coasts (e.g. the Shannon estuary, Donegal, Clew, Tralee, and Dingle Bays).
- Projected changes in sea level in combination with projected increases in the severity of coastal storms are expected to exacerbate coastal erosion risk. It is thought that Ireland's coastal wetlands and soft sedimentary systems will be amongst the first in Europe to respond to storm-led sea level rise impacts.
- Coastal erosion currently represents a serious problem for Ireland and this is particularly the case where infrastructure or ecosystem services are at risk. Projected changes in sea level and in the occurrence of more intense coastal storms and surges mean that areas currently at risk will be at greater risk under projected changes in climate.
EPA coastal erosion map
Councillor Griffin continued, "I think it is up to everyone to remain safe. The council can only do so much, and I did bring the attention of the landslide in Portally Cove to the Council immediately when it happened.
"When you visit some of our beautiful cliff walks be it Dunmore or Ardmore, the onus has to be on the parents or the people walking whether it be with their dogs or children."
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