mean sea level trends

Mean sea level (MSL) reflects the average height of the ocean's surface, and its trends indicate changes over time. Rising MSL is mainly due to climate change, as glaciers and ice sheets melt and global temperatures warm, causing water to expand. Other factors, like land subsidence or uplift, can also influence local sea levels. Monitoring MSL trends helps us understand climate impacts and plan for coastal protection. Overall, a rising mean sea level signals shifts in our planet’s climate system and poses challenges for coastal communities worldwide.