Newtok: The Water Is Rising

Newtok, a small Alaskan village situated on the Ninglick River, is facing an imminent threat from rising sea levels and eroding shorelines. Once home to hundreds of Yup'ik Eskimos, Newtok is now a symbol of climate change's devastating impact on coastal communities. The village's infrastructure, including homes, school, and community center, is gradually being swallowed by the encroaching waters, forcing residents to consider a difficult relocation to higher ground. The story of Newtok highlights the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for proactive adaptation strategies to protect vulnerable communities.