Ocean level rise could cost SC billions

Some experts say a rising ocean level could cost South Carolina billions of dollars in lost infrastructure.
   
Geologists joined community and business leaders in Charleston on Thursday. They discussed how levees might one day be needed along the Charleston peninsula and rising sea levels could wash over South Carolina’s barrier islands.
   
Duke University geologist Orin Pilkey said a water rise of 5 feet is “a genuine possibility” by the year 2100.

Maps from the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy show only a thin strip of Charleston peninsula would remain and be subject to flooding if steps aren’t taken.
   
The Southeast Coastal Climate Network sponsored the meeting. The environmental group works with local leaders to address the threat of global warming.