Jane C. Timm
NYU's new campus in Abu Dhabi has presented many unique challenges to the university. Recently, an NYU administrator noted the potential threat of possible flooding affecting the campus.
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David Holland, director of NYU's Center of Atmosphere Ocean Science, gave a speech last Sunday in Abu Dhabi concerning the issue.
Abu Dhabi, the cosmopolitan capital of the United Arab Emirates, lies perfectly at sea level. Holland said recently the sea level has risen, making Abu Dhabi more vulnerable than more highly elevated cities.
He added that Abu Dhabi and other low-lying areas should take steps to combat the growing threat, and he thinks areas like these should invest more heavily in climate research. But he knows there are difficulties with the research.
"The science of this issue is very complex and is still not done, so we're in an awkward place because we cannot make projections," he said.
But Holland hopes NYUAD will be able to help with that issue, with things such as research. There's a lack of basic observation of sea level change, he said.
NYUAD spokesman Josh Taylor said the school is unsure whether it will continue with this research.
"We are in the midst of reviewing our first full complete round of research proposals," he said. He declined further comment while projects are under review.
Taylor also said it was not just Abu Dhabi that would be susceptible to such flooding, but also dozens of other cities.
"It's important to understand that Abu Dhabi is no more susceptible to flooding than any of the world's other major cities and countries located at sea level," he said. "New York, for instance, is also at sea level and at risk of being flooded."
In addition to Abu Dhabi, other low-lying areas that are at risk include Mumbai, Florida, parts of Holland and New Orleans.
Taylor said large-scale flooding in Abu Dhabi is unlikely for at least another 100 years.
