World's narrowest island capital just 150 metres wide could disappear beneath rising seas, World Bank warns

Majuro, capital of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, is just 150 metres wide and the world's narrowest island capital, facing existential threat from rising sea levels.

A World Bank study warns that 40% of Majuro's buildings and 96% of the city are at risk of frequent flooding due to climate change.

Coastal erosion in Majuro is accelerated by increased wind speeds: a 10% rise in wind speed can increase sediment transport by 25%.

With an average elevation of only two metres, Majuro has no high ground, making entire neighbourhoods vulnerable to submergence during high tides.

Adaptation measures like sea walls and land raising are considered, but migration may become a last resort for the Marshallese people.