Coastal Village in Scotland Fights to Survive Rising Seas

In the coastal village of Johnshaven, Scotland, residents are facing a dire situation as sea levels continue to rise and extreme weather patterns exacerbate the risks. The northeastern coast of Scotland is experiencing significant sea level rises and worsening erosion, putting the small village of Johnshaven, with a population of 640, in a precarious position.

Local groups have been taking matters into their own hands, attempting to prevent erosion by placing rock armor, comprised of large boulders, along the coastline to protect against the waves. However, they have been desperately seeking grant funding to cover the costs of these protection measures, as the government lacks the necessary resources to assist them. "If small villages want anything like this to happen, it has got to be locally led, because we're not going to get much help from the government or the local council," said Caspar Lampkin, from the Benholm and Johnshaven Community Council.

If no action is taken, the consequences could be devastating. At least 100 houses in the area are at risk of flooding, and the road that goes through the rest of the village and the local park are also under threat. The rising sea levels pose a significant threat to the health, safety, and livelihoods of the residents of Johnshaven, as well as the economic security of the entire community.