Climate Migration Overview

1. Temperature Shifts: By 2070, areas comfortable to live in will shift northward, increasing heat in the southern U.S.
2. Humidity Effects: Projected increases in humidity will exacerbate heat conditions in regions like Arizona and parts of the Midwest.
3. Rising Sea Levels: Coastal regions, particularly Louisiana and areas along the Eastern Seaboard, are at high risk of flooding.
4. Crop Viability Changes: Changes in temperature may hinder crop production in the South while improving conditions in the Upper Midwest.

Risk Assessments

• High-Risk Areas: Counties in Texas and Arizona face severe heat and wildfires, while the Southeast struggles with economic damage.
• Beneficial Regions: Northern growing areas like Vermont and the Great Lakes are less vulnerable according to climate risk models.

Migration Patterns

1. Current Migration Trends: Despite climate predictions, states like Arizona and Florida are witnessing population growth—potentially ignoring future risks.
2. Future Projections: Over the next 45 years, up to 1 in 12 Americans in southern states may migrate to the Northwest or Mountain West due to climate factors.
3. Potential Urban Challenges: Urban areas may experience chaotic growth without adequate infrastructure to handle a surge in population, increasing inequality.

Solutions for Urban Sustainability

• Ecological Restoration: Cities must enhance natural landscapes, manage watersheds, and create drainage systems that mimic natural processes.
• Public Transit and Affordable Housing: Promoting walkable communities and effective public transit can alleviate issues associated with rapid urban migration.
• Community Engagement: Any migration management strategies must focus on inclusive economic policies to mitigate increases in poverty and inequality.