Lincolnshire has been named as one of the most vulnerable regions in the UK in the face of climate change.
The risk to properties is set to double between 1990 and 2050 as global warming increases and sea levels rise, according to a study published last week.
A model of threat has been compiled by XDI Systems and it looks at different regions of the world and how they are faring.
Lincolnshire was 184 out of 2,600 regions in terms of projected damage. As well as coastal and river flooding, extreme weather events can also overwhelm drainage systems.
The county council says the study underlines the need for investment in flood defences and other projects.
Coun Colin Davie, executive member for the environment, said: “Lincolnshire has battled with floods throughout history, and I’m not surprised to see it top this ‘at risk’ list. It’s vital then that the government recognise the unique risks to the Lincolnshire coast and continues to commit to projects that protect our communities.
“As a council, we will continue to take steps with other local and national partners to maintain and improve our defences where we can, and invest in schemes that tackle other flooding risks across the county, including improving drainage and investigating groundwater flooding.
“We also need to encourage communities along the coast to be prepared should the worst happen, by signing up for flood alerts and knowing what to do.”
Properties in Spalding, Pinchbeck and Market Rasen were hit by flash floods in August last year after weeks of drought.
Greater London, Wales and the East Riding of Yorkshire were also found to be particularly vulnerable over the coming decades.
Rosemary Robinson, of Lincolnshire Extinction Rebellion, said: “We are sadly aware how much of the county is at risk of flooding over the next 80 years.
“Many people seem to be treating the impact of climate change is inevitable. But if we can reduce the temperature rise by even 0.1C, that can still be worth it and potentially prevent us from reaching a tipping point. Hopefully the government grasps how severe the situation is and takes imminent action.”
The county council has been awarded £7m from the Flood and Coastal Innovation Programme to explore how groundwater contributes to flooding.
The study found that the east coast was most at risk, with seven regions in the UK’s top ten.
