Graph Coastal Inundation
Graph It
Graphs can be used to turn complex tabular U.S. Census data into understandable information.
Graphs help turn cumbersome data and information into easy-to-understand visualizations. Examples include demographic and economic data, which are valuable information when assessing community vulnerabilities. Some of the most effective graphs depict changes in conditions over time, such as coastal population growth and sea levels. By providing large quantities of information in a graphic format, communities can make better sense of the information and understand its relevance to them. This section provides resources that draw on graphic visualizations for conveying information.
- Coastal County Snapshot – Flood Exposure – Easy-to-understand charts and graphs are used to convey complex county-level flood risk and vulnerability data (population density, critical infrastructure, and land cover). Printable PDFs let you take the information with you to stakeholder and planning meetings.
- River Forecasts and Observations – This resource provides a graphical interpretation of river forecast and observed water levels for all U.S. river gages. The hydrograph is color coded to indicate which water levels are considered action, moderate, and major flood stage. This information is provided by NOAA’s National Weather Service Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service.
- Sea Level Trends – View regional trends of direction and magnitude of sea level change on NOAA’s Tides and Currents website.
- Land Cover Atlas - See how land has changed over time through maps and charts.
River forecasts and observations can be graphed to show users when crests will likely occur or flood waters will recede.
Local Examples
- Today’s Flood is Tomorrow’s High Tide – In Charleston, South Carolina, city planners are using a graph of the Charleston Harbor tide gauge to help local officials visualize the historic sea level rise trends and understand that sea level rise is likely to continue along this trend. View the handout developed.
- Illustrating the Importance of Critical Infrastructure Data for Louisiana Coastal Parishes – The Coastal County Snapshots – Flood Exposure tool was used to assess critical facility information for several parishes in Louisiana. Using this information, the Louisiana Geographic Information Center was able to determine the risk of their emergency shelters and services.