IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON WATERWAYS, COASTS, AND LAKES

May 20, 2024

IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON WATERWAYS, COASTS, AND LAKES

Rising Sea Levels

- Coastal Erosion: Rising sea levels lead to increased coastal erosion, which results in the loss of beaches and homes.

- Saltwater Intrusion: Higher sea levels cause saltwater to infiltrate freshwater sources, contaminating drinking water supplies.

Ocean Acidification

- Carbon Absorption: Increased atmospheric carbon leads to more carbon being absorbed by the oceans, causing acidification.

- Marine Life Impact: Acidification harms vital fisheries and coral reefs, disrupting marine ecosystems and local economies.

Warmer Oceans

- Coral Bleaching: Warmer sea temperatures lead to coral bleaching, which can decimate coral reefs.

- Migration Patterns: Changes in sea temperatures alter the migration patterns of marine animals, affecting biodiversity.

Increased Storm Surges

- Sewage Overflow: Higher storm surges can cause sewage systems to overflow, leading to contamination of water sources.

- Health Risks: Contaminated water from storm surges can lead to skin and respiratory infections in humans.

Effects on Inland Water Bodies

- Lake Warming: Higher temperatures also affect lakes, leading to warmer waters which can disrupt local ecosystems.

- Algal Blooms: Warmer temperatures promote algal blooms, which can be harmful to aquatic life and human health.

SRIRAM’s