Majuro Faces Existential Threat from Rising Sea Levels

Majuro, the narrow capital of the Republic of the Marshall Islands perched on a coral atoll, is increasingly vulnerable to sea‑level rise, storm surges and coastal erosion. The World Bank warns that, if current trends continue, the city could become uninhabitable within decades.

Experts note that the island’s low elevation, mangrove loss and coral‑reef degradation reduce natural protection, while intensified tides and waves accelerate shoreline erosion. Authorities are considering sea‑wall construction, land‑raising projects, population relocation and greater international climate‑finance support to protect the capital.

The situation underscores the acute local impacts of global climate change and highlights the urgent need for adaptation financing for small island states.