Can you imagine returning to planet Earth five thousand years from now and seeing that everything has changed? Global warming can and will alter the shape of the globe unless appropriate measures are taken. If all the ice melts, sea level will rise about 60 meters, putting at risk any life that may be on the coast.
Scientists from National Geographic have produced a series of maps where you can see the cities that could disappear due to an increase in temperatures caused by climate change. This phenomenon is also being studied in other regions where climate change has serious consequences.
On the planet it is estimated that there are more than 20 million cubic kilometers of ice, which would melt and end up in the sea if global temperatures rose more than 10 degrees Celsius. Added to this is the fact that if we continue to expel greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, we not only endanger ourselves by facilitating increasingly extreme weather events, but also future generations. This increase in temperatures is one of the main causes behind the dangers that cities face.
The scenario before us is catastrophic. But the truth is that there are already cities that are beginning to have serious problems with rising sea levels.
Cities as spectacular as Venice (Italia) Mexico, New Orleans (U.S), Bangkok (Thailand) or Shanghai (China), are just some of those that could be under water during this century. The most pessimistic say, however, that for example Venice could disappear in just seven yearsThis scenario is complemented by the need to take effective measures against climate change.
Paradise places like Hawai or the beaches of Australia are threatened by rising sea levels. So much so that if you want to visit them, it's advisable to do so as soon as possible. Click here here to see which cities could end up under the sea.
Thus, perhaps you don't have to wait so long to have redraw maps of the continents. What do you think?
The causes behind the disappearance of cities
Sea level rise is a phenomenon that is being driven by multiple factors, mainly due to the global warmingThermal expansion of water, melting glaciers, and shrinking glaciers are some of the most significant causes. If action is not taken soon, many cities will be at serious risk.
Furthermore, the heat island effect In cities, which is caused by the increased absorption of heat in urban areas due to building construction and street paving, it also contributes to local warming and, consequently, sea level rise. This phenomenon can lead to extreme weather conditions, exacerbating the impact of climate change on coastal communities. It is important to be aware that the consequences of climate change can be devastating.
Consequently, it is estimated that approximately 226 million people Living in coastal areas could be affected by flooding and land loss due to rising sea levels. This problem is exacerbated in places where the adaptation to climate change is even more difficult.
Cities at risk of disappearing
Numerous cities around the world are under imminent threat. Some of the most significant include:
- Venice, Italy, whose historic center already faces regular flooding.
- Bangkok, Thailand, which is sinking at an alarming rate and could lose key areas such as its international airport.
- New Orleans, USA, vulnerable to flooding due to increasingly intense hurricanes and storms.
- Shanghai, China, which is experiencing gradual subsidence and rising sea levels.
- Miami, USA, which is being affected by coastal erosion and rising sea levels.
- Alexandria, Egypt, which is facing a crisis over the climate change and the erosion of its coasts.
These cities are just a few examples of the many places that could suffer the consequences of climate change. Overall, it is estimated that more than 36 cities around the world could be at risk of being flooded to some extent due to this phenomenon. The situation is worrying and needs to be addressed urgently.
Governments need to take effective action to curb the impact of this phenomenon, as the pressure on our cities increases every year. Investing in green infrastructure could be an effective solution.
Spanish cities in danger
The case of Spain is especially worrying, since the country has an extensive coastline of more than 8.000 kilometersAccording to recent studies, several Spanish cities have been identified that could be seriously affected by rising sea levels:
- Barcelona: Estimates indicate that sea level could rise by up to 75 centimeters by 2100, affecting areas such as Barceloneta.
- Valencia: Neighborhoods like The Cabanyal y Malvarrosa could experience permanent flooding.
- MálagaThe Andalusian city is vulnerable to coastal erosion.
- CadizIts historic center could be flooded by rising sea levels.
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife: It also faces a high risk of flooding due to rising sea levels.
Projections indicate that many of these cities could experience significant economic damage, with losses that could reach 50.000 millones de euros by the end of the century. It is essential to address these challenges urgently.
The situation demands not only attention, but also a concerted response from all sectors of society. Climate change can significantly alter our environment, and affect various industries in the process.
Actions to mitigate the impact of climate change
Faced with this catastrophic scenario, it is imperative that cities and countries implement measures to mitigate the impact of climate change. These actions may include:
- Construction of retaining walls and other infrastructure to protect vulnerable areas.
- Restore coastal ecosystems, such as mangroves and wetlands, which can help absorb the impact of waves and flooding.
- Urban planification that takes into account climate risks and seeks to reduce the exposure of coastal communities.
- education and awareness on climate change and its impact on local communities.
The decisions we make today will influence the future of coastal cities. Collaboration between governments, communities, and individuals is crucial to creating a sustainable and resilient future in the face of climate change. Every action counts and can make the difference between the demise or the sustainability of many of these cities. Therefore, it is vital to address this challenge urgently.
It is essential that humanity realize the seriousness of climate change and act before it is too late. Implementing effective policies and using innovative technologies are crucial steps to address this global challenge and protect our cities and communities for the future.
