Women and children hardest hit because they will provide the sacrifices that will be offered to the gods to stop the rise of the oceans.
A chuckle, but...
Millenia ago, various sacrifices - food, valuables, animals, humans - were offered up to various Gods in hopes of placating them. Keep The Gods happy, and the seas will be smooth for sailing and The Weather will be good for bountiful crops.
Storms, floods and droughts were considered in much the same vein. "What have we done to anger The Gods? We must be more mindful of what the high priests say they desire."
Progressives haven't changed in 5000+ years.