Ayrshire could be devastated by flooding, a new study has warned.

A report by Climate Central, a US-based scientific organisation, shows large areas along the coast at risk by 2050.

Improved data shows much of the coastline from Ballantrae to Skelmorlie affected because of rising sea levels.

Prestwick, Braehead and almost all of Troon are just some of the places within the red zone.

Climate Central have published a map using sea levels and annual flood risk showing the areas at risk of being swallowed up in 30 years time and factors in moderate cuts to global pollution levels.

Sea level rise alone will leave Ayrshire largely unaffected in the coming decades according to the calculations but when moderate to severe flooding is factored in the results are widespread.

Prestwick Airport, Ayr Sheriff Court and waterfront houses in Prestwick, Ayr, Seafield, Doonfoot, Girvan and Ballantrae are all at risk along with the length of the Esplanade in Ayr.

Climate Central’s report read: “Sea level rise is one of the best known of climate change’s many dangers.

“As humanity pollutes the atmosphere with greenhouse gases, the planet warms.

“And as it does, warming sea water expands, increasing the volume of the world’s oceans.

“The consequences range from near-term increases in coastal flooding that can damage infrastructure and crops to the permanent displacement of coastal communities.

“Areas shaded red reflect places that are lower than the selected local sea-level and/or coastal flood projection.

“Over the course of the 21st century, global sea levels are projected to rise between about two and seven feet, and possibly more.”

The report added: “Despite these existing defences, increasing ocean flooding, permanent submergence, and coastal defence costs are likely to deliver profound humanitarian, economic, and political consequences.

“This will happen not just in the distant future, but also within the lifetimes of most people alive today.”

South Ayrshire Council did not respond to the Advertiser’s request for comment.

In November, 80 per cent of Venice was submerged by a combination of high tides and heavy rainfall.

Experts noted this was a sign of what will be widespread in coming years.