The areas of Southampton that could be underwater by 2030

The study has been conducted by Climate Central, an independent organisation of leading scientists and journalists who research climate change and its impact on the public.

The organisation used current projections to produce a map showing which areas of the country would be underwater by 2030.

Here the map shows that some areas of Southampton next to the River Itchen and the Solent could be under threat.

Areas of Southampton that are at risk

The main areas of Southampton that are under threat include the Southampton Harbour area.

Southampton Harbour could be under threat (Image: Climate Central)

Areas such as Northam and Chapel would be at risk, as well as the area where Red Funnel ferries operate and even the home of Southampton FC in St Mary's Stadium.

Southampton Docks would also be under threat, with the map encompassing some bits of Westquay, Southampton Central and Millbrook train stations, and the Mayflower Cruise terminal.

On the North West side of Southampton, the risk area encompasses much of Redbridge, including its train station, whilst on the North East side some of St Denys would be affected as well as some of Thomas Lewis Way and all the way along the River Itchen.

You can view the full map via the Climate Central website here.

The map shows swathes of Redbridge would be impacted (Image: Climate Central)

Datasets include 'some error'

Climate Central does admit the calculations that have led to fears of a nightmare scenario include "some error".

It says: "These maps incorporate big datasets, which always include some error. These maps should be regarded as screening tools to identify places that may require deeper investigation of risk."

The maps have been based on "global-scale datasets for elevation, tides and coastal flood likelihoods" and "imperfect data is used".

Somewhat comfortingly, Climate Central adds: "Our approach makes it easy to map any scenario quickly and reflects threats from permanent future sea-level rise well.

"However, the accuracy of these maps drops when assessing risks from extreme flood events.

"Our maps are not based on physical storm and flood simulations and do not take into account factors such as erosion, future changes in the frequency or intensity of storms, inland flooding, or contributions from rainfall or rivers."

But it adds: "Improved elevation data indicate far greater global threats from sea level rise and coastal flooding than previously thought, and thus greater benefits from reducing their causes."