Storm surge is an abnormal rise in seawater level during a storm, measured as the height of the water above the normal predicted astronomical tide. It is primarily caused by strong winds from the storm pushing water toward the shore, causing it to pile up along the coast. A smaller contribution comes from the low atmospheric pressure at the storm's center, which slightly "pulls" the water level up. This rise in water level can lead to extreme coastal flooding, especially when it coincides with high tide, resulting in what is called a storm tide-the combined effect of storm surge and the normal tide

. The height and impact of a storm surge depend on several factors including the storm's intensity, size, speed, the orientation of the coastline, and the shape of the seabed. Storm surges can cause significant damage and loss of life, as seen in events like Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the 1953 North Sea flood. Additionally, strong winds during the storm can create large waves on top of the surge, further increasing flood risk and damage to coastal defenses

. In summary, storm surge is a dangerous rise in sea level caused mainly by storm winds pushing water onshore, leading to potentially devastating coastal flooding when combined with high tides.