CLIMATE experts have created a map showing how rising sea levels could submerge large parts of Colchester and the county. 

The study conducted by Climate Central, an independent organisation of leading scientists and journalists, shows climate change results and their impact on the Essex coast.

The organisation used current projections to produce a map showing which areas of Colchester could be underwater by 2030.

A map shows that plenty of coastal areas in Essex will lose at least some land to the rising sea levels.Gazette: Floods - Map showing Essex coast in seven years affected by Climate ChangeFloods - Map showing Essex coast in seven years affected by Climate Change (Image: Climate Central)

The interactive map also shows the damming impact on the coast in 2050.

The changes need to be made to slow the increase in the global temperature.

During the COP26 climate conference in 2021, leaders from across the world discussed how the matter can be addressed.

They have committed to tackling deforestation and methane leaks, while some of the world’s biggest producers of carbon have revealed deadlines for when they plan to become carbon neutral.

Here are the images the interactive map has predicted for Colchester and how the region could look just seven years from now.

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Mersea Island

Gazette: Effect - Mersea Island under waterEffect - Mersea Island under water (Image: Climate Central)

Parts of Mersea Island and the surrounding areas, including The Strood, and Blackwater Estuary Reserve could be badly hit by the impact of climate change.

Essex could encroach on the beaches and colourful huts displayed near the coastline. 

Rowhedge and Wivenhoe

Gazette: Rowhedge and WivenhoeRowhedge and Wivenhoe (Image: Climate Central)

Given the fact they are both located parallel to the River Colne, Rowhedge and Wivenhoe could be in trouble come 2030 if action is not taken.

The floods might affect changes to the railway as the map shows the train station under the water.

Hythe

Gazette: HytheHythe (Image: Climate Central)

Due to Climate Change, most of Hythe might find itself under water. 

A lot of businesses and University of Essex student accommodations are likely to become engulfed in water not least the problematic Haven Road, which is prone to flooding now.

Colchester city Centre

Gazette: Colchester City CentreColchester City Centre (Image: Climate Central)

Thankfully, even if rising sea levels are not stopped in their tracks, the majority of Colchester's city centre will escape unscathed.

However, sections of Castle Park will still be impacted, as will areas surrounding Cowdray Avenue.