Sea level rise

Definition

Sea level rise refers to the increase in the average height of the ocean's surface, primarily driven by climate change. This phenomenon results from two main factors: the thermal expansion of seawater as it warms and the melting of ice sheets and glaciers. As global temperatures rise, more water enters the oceans, leading to significant impacts on coastal communities, ecosystems, and weather patterns.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sea level has risen approximately 8-9 inches since 1880, with rates accelerating in recent decades due to climate change.
2. By 2100, sea levels could rise by an additional 1-4 feet if current trends continue, posing serious risks to coastal cities and ecosystems.
3. Higher sea levels increase the frequency and intensity of coastal flooding, especially during storms and high tides.
4. Sea level rise can lead to saltwater intrusion into freshwater aquifers, affecting drinking water supplies in coastal regions.
5. The impact of sea level rise disproportionately affects low-lying areas and vulnerable populations, exacerbating social and economic inequalities.

Review Questions

• How does thermal expansion contribute to sea level rise, and what are the implications for coastal communities?
  • Thermal expansion occurs as ocean water warms, causing it to take up more space and resulting in rising sea levels. This process is a significant contributor to overall sea level rise. For coastal communities, this means increased flooding risk during storms and high tides, loss of land, and potential displacement of residents. The implications extend beyond just physical changes, impacting local economies, infrastructure, and ecosystems.
• Discuss the relationship between glacial melt and sea level rise, including the potential long-term consequences.
  • Glacial melt is a major factor in sea level rise as melting ice sheets and glaciers release freshwater into the oceans. As temperatures continue to increase due to climate change, this process is expected to accelerate. Long-term consequences include significant increases in sea levels that could inundate coastal areas, displacing millions of people and altering global weather patterns. This further emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change on a global scale.
• Evaluate the socio-economic impacts of sea level rise on vulnerable populations and suggest possible strategies for mitigation.
  • Sea level rise disproportionately affects low-income and marginalized communities that often reside in coastal areas. These populations face increased risks of flooding, loss of property, and disruption of livelihoods. To mitigate these impacts, strategies such as investing in resilient infrastructure, implementing managed retreat from vulnerable zones, and enhancing community preparedness can be crucial. Moreover, addressing social inequalities through policy changes can help ensure that all communities are better equipped to handle the challenges posed by rising seas.

Related terms

thermal expansion: The process in which water expands as it warms, contributing to sea level rise as global temperatures increase.

glacial melt:

The process of glaciers and ice sheets melting due to rising temperatures, adding freshwater to the oceans and raising sea levels.

coastal erosion: The loss of land along coastlines, often accelerated by sea level rise and leading to habitat loss and increased vulnerability of coastal communities.