Working through the back story...

Img_6535

IPCC modelled sea level rise + the collapse of an ice sheet = 3m sea level rise in 50 years. Plus a storm surge of 6m+ increasingly often damaging flood defenses beyond reasonable repair. This is a realistic (highly possible) scenario for the abandonment of my home county (1/3 of which is below sea level) within my lifetime.
The Netherlands Delta Commission are preparing for a 6.5-15ft rise by 2200

Generally taking values from this NS article: http://bit.ly/asAF1B which someone kindly C+Vd for me.

The picture is from a tree near the top of the tallest hill for miles, near where I grew up.