Global sea levels have been underestimated due to poor modelling, research suggests
The Guardian • • world
Key Points:
- New research reveals that global sea levels have been underestimated by an average of 30cm, with some regions in the global south experiencing levels 100-150cm higher than previously thought.
- The study highlights that over 90% of prior research relied on land elevation measurements referenced to global geoid models, which do not account for local factors like winds, ocean currents, and water temperature, leading to significant inaccuracies.
- The findings suggest that 37% more coastal areas could be submerged after a 1-meter sea level rise, potentially impacting up to 132 million people worldwide.
- Scientists warn that underestimated sea levels mean coastal impacts from climate change will occur sooner than projected, urging a re-evaluation of coastal hazard assessments and climate
