Sea levels have risen globally by 8-9 inches since 1880, but island communities are most vulnerable. The state of Hawai’i has updated its Sea Level Rise Viewer to help prepare for destructive storm surges, floods, and erosion. The tool tracks rising seas and projects a potential sea level rise of up to four feet by the end of the century.
Rising sea levels pose significant concerns due to ongoing heat-trapping pollution and global temperature increases. Even if greenhouse gas emissions were stopped overnight, sea levels would still continue to rise for centuries.
To address this issue, some communities are moving inland, while others implement infrastructure such as “living shorelines” to absorb wave action. Experts agree that transitioning to renewable energy sources is crucial to tackle the root cause of rising seas.
The updated tool aims to provide clearer information for informed planning and policy decisions, enabling communities and leaders to plan smarter and protect people from the impacts unfolding along Hawai’i’s shores.
Source: https://www.thecooldown.com/outdoors/hawaii-sea-level-rise-tool-coastal-planning