Coastal territorial vulnerability index: the importance of a local approach in anticipating the impacts of coastal flooding

Abstract

The continental coastal zone of Portugal is characterized by its morpho-sedimentary diversity. The high population density and range of land uses, occupation and activities make it an area of great national strategic value, and a multi-hazard zone. In this study, a multidimensional methodology to analyse, evaluate and interpret local vulnerability (Coastal Territorial Vulnerability Index - CTVI) has been developed and applied in three study areas.