sea level rise resilience

Last year was the hottest year in recorded history, both in terms of air temperatures and ocean temperatures. And it was the eighth record-breaking year in a row. And while climate scientists have been telling us for decades that as temperatures increase we’re going to see disruptions in our weather patterns — someday in 'the future' — it’s starting to feel like that future is already upon us. We’re previewing the 2024 Southwest Florida Climate Summit, hosted by the Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Partnership, which gathers experts to present the latest climate science pertaining to our region, and methods for building resiliency in our communities. It’s Wed. and Thurs., Feb. 28 and 29 at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center in Punta Gorda. The summit is free and open to anyone but pre-registration is required.

Lee County leaders are planning to do away with language that currently restrict heights of homes on Captiva Island to two-stories. Islanders fear the charm will be lost and they will be in harm's way as more people pack onto the island.

$300 million awarded for projects to protect communities from impacts of flooding and storm surge; Lee, Hendry projects part of those funded.

All 67 counties in Florida will take part and complete a vulnerability assessment and be eligible for inclusion in future iterations of the Statewide Flooding and Sea Level Rise Resilience Plan, which proposes funding for the highest ranked resilience and adaptation projects across the state.

Big Hickory Island is one of many barrier islands that protect Southwest Florida's shores when storms batter the peninsula.Florida Gulf Coast University…