The local threat of coastal flooding for specific communities along the coast is illustrated on the "Coastal Flood Hazard Map" by the negative effects of surf conditions when salt water is deposited onto the beach.      

"An Extreme Threat to Life and Property within the Coastal Zone from Salt Water Flooding." Persistent battering surf conditions (lasting more than 36 hours) ... or... major extra-tropical storm surge event.  The potential for widespread breaching of dunes and seawalls.  Near-shore roads may become weakened or washed out affecting local escape routes.  Shoreline structures may experience significant damage resulting in local evacuations.  Significant damage to marinas and piers may occur.  

Extreme

"A High Threat to Life and Property within the Coastal Zone from Salt Water Flooding." Battering surf conditions (lasting less than 36 hours) ... or... moderate extra-tropical storm surge event.  The potential for surf to breach dunes and seawalls in scattered locations which may begin to affect sections of near-shore roads and shoreline structures.  Some damage to marinas and piers may occur.

High

"A Moderate Threat to Life and Property within the Coastal Zone from Salt Water Flooding." High (very heavy) surf conditions which may cause major beach erosion.  The potential for surf to breach dunes and seawalls in isolated locations, mainly in historically vulnerable spots.

Moderate

"A Low Threat to Life and Property within the Coastal Zone from Salt Water Flooding." High (heavy) surf conditions which may cause moderate beach erosion.

Low

" A Very Low Threat to Life and Property within the Coastal Zone from Salt Water Flooding." Rough surf conditions which may cause minor beach erosion.

Very Low

" No Discernable Threat to Life and Property within the Coastal Zone from Salt Water Flooding." Surf conditions are non-threatening.

Non-Threatening