Ancient coastal city in Egypt feels impact of changing climate
Egypt’s second-largest city, Alexandria, lies in the Eastern Mediterranean, a top climate change hotspot that has dealt with record global air and ocean temperatures this year. Egypt-based photojournalist Hamada Elrasam presents scenes of everyday life that have been impacted by the changing climate phenomenon in the low-lying metropolis that has survived over two millennia, only to find itself on this century’s climate frontlines. Written in collaboration with Elle Kurancid.
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Dina Gohar, curator at the Alexandria National Museum, gives awareness-raising workshops and talks on the climate change crisis since “many heritage sites face erosion,” from Kom El-Shoqafa to the Qaitbay Citadel. Alexandria, Egypt, Sept 20, 2024.
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A cafe features a weathered mural of the at-risk Qaitbay Citadel. “The rising humidity and sea levels are posing major threats to our heritage sites,” says Dina Gohar. “Still, people have many careless practices.” Alexandria, Egypt, Sept. 20, 2024.
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The Sidi Morsi Abu Al-Abbas Mosque and other Islamic heritage sites are popular among local tourists. Experts warn the city’s infrastructure is under stress from overheating and overcrowding. Alexandria, Egypt, Sept. 20, 2024.
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Historic apartment buildings and critical road infrastructure, located just 150 meters inland from the sea, bear signs of saltwater-related damage. Alexandria, Egypt, Sept. 22, 2024.
