24th March, 2026
As powerful storms and rising seas reshape our coasts, a stark warning is emerging for Ireland’s beaches and dunes. In this compelling interview, Iris Moeller reflects on how Storm Chandra came dangerously close to triggering far worse flooding along the East Coast, missing a far more destructive impact by mere timing of the tides.
Drawing on the latest findings from the World Meteorological Organization, the discussion reveals how warming oceans are driving higher sea levels and intensifying storms, placing low-lying coastal communities increasingly at risk. But beyond the warnings, there’s a powerful message of possibility.
Rather than relying solely on hard sea walls, the conversation highlights the protective power of nature itself by restoring sand dunes, widening beaches, and revitalising coastal wetlands as resilient, living defences. These natural systems don’t just shield against storms, they enhance biodiversity, improve water quality, and create more beautiful, accessible coastlines for future generations.
For those who love and depend on our coasts, this is both a wake-up call and a vision for a more sustainable relationship with the sea.
