rising sea levels

Rising sea levels occur mainly because of two factors related to climate change: the melting of glaciers and ice sheets, and the warming of oceans. As global temperatures increase, ice stored on land melts and adds water to the oceans. Warmer water also expands in volume, which causes sea levels to rise. This process results in higher water levels along coastlines, increasing the risk of flooding, erosion, and habitat loss for both humans and wildlife. The pace of sea level rise varies regionally but is a clear sign of the ongoing impact of global warming on our planet.