Liquid water is essential to life on Earth; the first forms of life began in the oceans over three billion years ago, and all forms of life still depend on water in some way for survival. Humans can only live for a few days when deprived of fresh water.

    And yet water in overabundance can also be deadly. Over 1,800 Americans lost their lives as a result of Hurricane Katrina, and the region has yet to recover both economically and socially from Katrina's devastation.

    It is clear that both water scarcity and water inundation can lead to disaster. But what is the likelihood of either of these scenarios affecting the New York City Metropolitan Area?  What role might global warming play?  How might NYC's supply of fresh drinking water be affected?  What about sea levels?  Could a hurricane strike the city, and, if so, are we prepared?  Click on the links to the left to learn more!