Dire warnings about the devastating effect that storms, flooding and high temperatures could have on Clydebank and nearby coastal areas in the coming decades have been sounded in a report on climate change.

The report, by Climate Ready Clyde (CRC), warns that the Erskine bridge will see “extreme exposure” to storms and could need costly wind barriers.

The Vale of Leven Hospital in Alexandria could be at risk from river flooding, says the report, and the Dumbarton-Helensburgh railway line could suffer erosion.

The study, Climate Action Clyde, said that by 2050 the region will be experiencing more powerful storms, regular heatwaves and heavy winter flooding, affecting up to 1.8 million people.

CRC warns that failing to adapt and prepare for climate change could cost the Glasgow region several hundred million pounds a year by the 2050s.

Local politicians expressed concern at the report’s findings and stressed now is the time to act.

Martin Docherty-Hughes MP said: “Scotland is a world leader in tackling climate change, but this report is a stark reminder our communities aren’t immune from the impact of global warming.

“Across the world we’re seeing the devastating impact of extreme weather, including record heatwaves, wildfires and hurricanes.

“Climate change is a threat that shouldn’t be underestimated, which is why I welcome the Scottish Government’s action to set the most ambitious climate-change targets in the world.

“The SNP is acting now to invest in renewables and cut carbon emissions by at least 90 per cent by 2050.

“It’s critical that the UK Government matches Scotland’s commitment and ambition to tackle climate change and protect our environment for generations to come.”

Ross Greer, West Scotland Green MSP, said: “This year alone the west of Scotland has seen the ‘Beast from the East’, a massive heatwave, and damage from high winds. Unless we take this threat seriously there’s more of this to come, and this report sets out just some of the problems we can expect to face in the next 30 years.

“The solution is about much more than individuals making a few changes to their lifestyles. The most effective thing would be for governments, including in Holyrood, and corporations to urgently stop their worship of fossil fuels and get serious about a carbon-free society.”

Gil Paterson, SNP MSP for Clydebank, said climate change is one of the biggest issues the world faces.

He added: “It’s a subject that can seem remote to many but environmental issues affect us all. Scotland is not immune to the threats.

“The Scottish Government has made enormous efforts to combat the dangers from climate change. We are world leaders on the issue and have frequently been quoted internationally.

“The targets that we have already met are some of the highest in the world as are the targets we are putting in place for the future.

“CRC have produced one of the most comprehensive assessments on the issue in the UK. It highlights how the waterfront communities in Dumbarton, Old Kilpatrick and Clydebank could be impacted in the future.”

A West Dunbartonshire Council spokeswoman said work had been ongoing over the last decade and the council had invested significantly to protect vulnerable householders, businesses and communities from flooding.

She added: “Further flood prevention work is scheduled for the coming year.”