Rate of sea level rise growing more quickly than previously thought

By on January 22, 2015
Coastal area hit by elevated sea levels (Credit: NOAA)


Harvard scientists report that the rate sea level rise has has grown more quickly over the last 20 years than originally thought, according to a report from Click Green. Although the study showed global sea level estimates from 1900 to 1990 were overestimated up to 30 percent, it also validated estimates made after 1990.

Originally, annual sea level rise was believed to be between 1.5-1.8 millimeters during the 20th century, but the study puts the estimate at 1.2 millimeters. Now, the annual rate of sea level has been estimated at 3 millimeters.

Researchers fear that relying on sea level rise estimates from 1900-90 could affect the ability to accurately predict future sea level rise rates.

Top image: Coastal area hit by elevated sea levels (Credit: NOAA)

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