Recent scientific research from Climate Central suggests that global sea levels will rise by an average of three feet by the year 2100, and anywhere from 18 to 29 feet over the next several centuries. Low-lying countries and coastal communities face an unprecedented challenge, and we have climate change to thank.
Think we’re safe here in North America? Think again!
The U.S. Geological Survey reports that there’s a hotspot along the East Coast where the sea level could rise three to four times the global average. New York City is one of the threatened cities. Climate Central reports that the funnel shape of New York Harbor has the potential to magnify storm surges already supplemented by sea level rise.
Another study by the National Research Council found that the California coast will see a six inch sea level rise by 2030, and an average of three feet by 2100. And the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development says Miami, Florida is one of the most vulnerable cities – sea levels there have already risen nearly a foot over the past century, and are expected to rise by three to five feet by 2100.
According to the scientific journal LiveScience, 84% of Antarctica’s glaciers have retreated as the region warmed over the past 50 years. And the rising temperatures over the next century will lead to continued glacial melting in the world’s polar regions.
While there are variations in sea level rise estimates, the risks are clear. We need to address global climate change, move to higher elevations, or buy a boat!
Web Links
http://www.livescience.com/210-antarctic–glaciers–melting–rapidly.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/25/east–coast–sea–level–rise_n_1624134.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/25/drowning–nations–sea–level–rise_n_1783931.html
Photo, photo was taken on November 15, 2008, courtesy of Julie G via Flickr.