SEA


Sea Level


Coastal Change

Shoreline changes have become of paramount concern for coastal engineers and land use planners because a significant portion of the world's population lives within the coastal zone. The continuance of coastal change is virtually assured due to natural forces and human modifications. Moreover, should global warming occur, it will add to this effect by melting land-based ice and causing the near-surface ocean waters to expand thermally, raising sea levels in the future. Sea level rise is one of the most certain consequences of the greenhouse effect, and is an indicator of climate change.

Sea level rise caused by global warming will have pronounced impacts on coastal areas by causing submergence of low-lying areas and loss of wetlands, as well as erosion of beaches. Unfortunately, many of the buildings and facilities humans have built along the coasts are not adequately above existing water levels or located far enough inland to ensure survival and safety of residents during storms. This hazard is becoming increasingly apparent as relative sea levels have risen throughout the twentieth century.

sea12.gif