The predicted increase in the next 30 year could be the same as the 100-year-old rise.
The Gulf Coast is likely to experience the most drastic changes, with sea levels rising between 14-18 inches. Levels will rise 10-14 inches on the East Coast. The West Coast will see a rise of between 4-8 inches.
In a statement Tuesday, Bill Nelson, NASA administrator, stated that sea levels continue to rise at an alarming pace, threatening communities all over the globe. “Science is undisputed and urgent action is needed to mitigate the climate crisis. This is well under way.”
This report, called the Global and Regional Sea Level Rise Report (G&R Sea Level Rise Report), is an update of 2017 findings. Scientists from several government agencies including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the United States Geological Survey used adjusted temporal trajectories, exceedance probabilities, and new data specifically created for this report. For their predictions, they also used satellite data, historical tide gauge observations and model projections.
After scientists found that high tide flooding is becoming more common over the last few years, due to rising sea levels, the report predicts greater frequency and severity of high tide flooding events as well as taller storm surges by 2050.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, floods cost the United States approximately $2.6 billion and caused at most seven deaths in 2021.
The study stated that “without additional risk-reduction steps, U.S. coast infrastructure, communities and ecosystems will suffer significant consequences.”
Scientists believe sea levels could rise beyond the projections of the study if oceans heat up and ice melts from glaciers and sheets — the primary drivers for changes in the world’s average sea level — continue to rise.
The NOAA estimates that up to 90% of planet’s heat excess is absorbed into the ocean. The agency has recorded seven of the highest ocean heat content levels in the past seven years.
Rick Spinrad, NOAA administrator, stated that the new research is a “global wake-up call” and provides Americans with the information they need to take action now in order to be the best prepared for the future.
He said that updated data could inform coastal communities about future and current vulnerabilities and help them make smarter decisions to ensure property and lives are protected over the long-term.
