Sea Level Rise: Impacts and Projections

NASA has observed Earth's warming and rising sea levels due to global warming. The ocean absorbs over 90% of this heat, causing water expansion and ice melting. This results in sea level rise, affecting millions living near coastlines and increasing flooding risks. Saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources is another concern. NASA measures these changes from space. Communities are adapting and addressing global warming to mitigate these effects. It's a significant challenge, but necessary as Earth is our only home.

What happens to water when it is heated?

• It contracts

• It expands

• It evaporates

• It freezes

How much of the heat from global warming is absorbed by Earth's ocean?

• 100%

• 90%

• 70%

• 50%

By how much can the ocean rise in the lifetime of a child born today?

• 1 to 2 feet

• 2 to 5 feet

• 3 to 6 feet

• 1 to 4 feet

How many people in the United States live within 4 feet of the local high tide level?

• 1 million

• 7 million

• 3 million

• 5 million

What are some communities doing to address rising sea levels?

• Building more dams

• Moving to higher ground

• Taking steps to adapt

• Ignoring the problem