Understanding Erosion and Flooding in PEI for Your
Home

Coastal Erosion
what is it and why does it happen?

Coastal erosion is the wearing away of land along the shoreline. It is caused by natural processes such as waves, tides, currents, wind, weather, and changes in sea level.

In PEI, erosion rates vary from place to place depending on exposure, shore type, water run-off, vegetation, and land use. As sea levels rise and storms become stronger, erosion is expected to increase.

Coastal Flooding
why does it happen?

Coastal flooding happens when seawater temporarily moves onto land that is normally dry. This can happen during storm surges, high tides, severe storms, or extreme weather, with large waves pushing water farther inland.

As sea levels continue to rise, coastal flooding events can reach higher elevations and affect areas farther inland and become permanent over time.

Inland Flooding
I don’t live near the coast, am I at risk of flooding?

You do not need to live near the coast to be at risk of flooding. Inland flooding can happen when heavy rainfall or snowmelt cannot soak into the ground quickly enough.

Hard surfaces such as buildings, parking lots, roads, and frozen ground increase runoff. Developing fields or green spaces can add hard surfaces and create new flood risks. Stormwater management plans can help manage runoff and reduce these risks.

Water can also enter homes through foundations, basement windows, drains, or plumbing systems.