The rise of sea levels in certain regions of the Pacific Ocean faster than the global average A recent report from the World Meteorological Organization reveals that the global sea level has risen at an average rate of 3.4 mm per year between 1993 and 2023. However, some regions of the Pacific Ocean are facing a faster rise in sea levels than this average. This acceleration of sea level rise in the Pacific is a major concern for scientists and local populations. Indeed, the consequences of this rise in sea level can be disastrous for these island regions that are already vulnerable to extreme weather events. Experts emphasize that climate change is largely responsible for this alarming increase in sea level. Greenhouse gas emissions are causing global warming, which in turn is melting glaciers and ice sheets, contributing to the rising oceans. Faced with this critical situation, it is urgent that concrete measures be taken to combat climate change and mitigate its harmful effects on the coastal regions of the Pacific. It is essential for governments worldwide to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development policies to protect our oceans and coastal populations. It is therefore crucial to raise greater awareness of the climate emergency and mobilize citizens around the world to act together in favor of preserving our planet and its oceans. The climate crisis is a reality we must confront now, before it is too late.

According to information provided by the World Meteorological Organization, there is a global increase in sea level, with an average of 3.4 mm per year between the years 1993 and 2023.

Pacific Islands Threatened by Climate Change

The Pacific archipelagos are facing a major risk of submersion due to climate change. According to the latest report from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) revealed at the Pacific Islands Forum, sea level rise in certain areas of the ocean is faster than the global average. The 18 member states, including New Caledonia and French Polynesia, are on the frontline in the fight against this phenomenon, highlighted Baron Waqa, the organization’s secretary-general, at the summit’s opening.

Pacific Ocean Warming

Over thirty years, between 1993 and 2023, sea level has risen on average by 3.4 mm per year globally. However, in the Pacific, this rise is more pronounced than the average, particularly around Southeast Asia (4.52 mm) and in the southern Oceania (4.13 mm).

OMM scientist Peer Hechler explains that this variation in sea level is linked to ocean temperatures, which are increasing due to climate change. In addition to glacier melting, ocean warming causes water expansion, thereby increasing ocean volume.

The report highlights that between 1981 and 2023, most of the southwest Pacific recorded ocean surface warming, reaching +0.4°C per decade in some places, three times faster than the global average estimated at +0.15°C per decade. This trend intensified in 2023, under the combined effect of El Niño and climate change.

“Greenhouse gases – largely generated by the combustion of fossil fuels – are causing our planet to overheat. And the sea is feeling the consequences.”

Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General

in a statement

Antonio Guterres emphasizes that the global average sea level is increasing unprecedentedly, with a rise of about 11 cm since 1993. Sea level rise has accelerated in recent years, going from 2.1 mm/year in the period 1993-2002 to 4.8 mm/year in 2014-2023, according to Peer Hechler.

A Highly Threatened Region

This phenomenon puts millions of people and entire archipelagos in the Pacific region at risk. Celeste Saulo, WMO Secretary-General, highlights that human activities contribute to transforming the situation into a growing threat, with increased coastal flooding, shoreline retreat, contamination of freshwater reserves by saltwater, and community displacement.

“A global disaster is threatening this Pacific paradise.”

Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General

in a statement

Experts estimate that sea levels will continue to rise in the region. For example, sea level in Sydney (Australia) could rise by 56 cm by 2090 according to a recent government report. Celeste Saulo emphasizes that the cascading impacts of climate change strongly affect communities, economies, and ecosystems throughout the Southwest Pacific region, underscoring the urgency of reversing the trend.

Since the nineteenth century, the Earth’s average temperature has increased by 1.1°C due to human activities, including the consumption of fossil fuels. This warming threatens the future of societies and biodiversity, but solutions exist, such as renewable energies, moderation, and reducing meat consumption. Discover our answers to your questions about the climate crisis.

Article Source: Francetvinfo

Pascal Petibon