Sea-level rise is expected to increase flooding and drive storm-related surges that can result in tree mortality, erosion, and longterm inundation in maritime forests.

Maritime forests are typically subjected to various impacts, depending on landscape position and exposure to salt spray, sea-level rise, and erosion. Rising sea levels are increasing storm surge and flooding, and this may become an even greater problem as storms become more frequent or severe. Prolonged inundation with salt water may cause stress or mortality of trees, depending on the tolerances of individual species to salt and inundation. Shifting sands may alter soil characteristics, destabilize root systems, and cause erosion.