What will happen to sea level?
By the year 2030, the global average sea level is likely to be between 3 and 17 cm higher than the 1990 level. By 2100, sea level is projected to rise by approximately 9 to 88 cm, compared with 1990. The rate and magnitude of sea-level change will vary from place to place in response to coastline features, changes in ocean currents, differences in tidal patterns and sea-water density, and vertical movements of the land itself. In some areas, sea level may actually fall. For much of the planet though, sea levels are expected to continue rising for hundreds of years even if atmospheric temperatures stabilise.
By the year 2030, the average world sea level is likely to be between 5 and 25 cm higher than now. By 2100, sea level is projected to rise by approximately 15 to 100 cm, compared with today, with a best estimate of about 50 cm. The rate and magnitude of sea-level change will vary from place to place in response to coastline features, changes in ocean currents, differences in tidal patterns and seawater density, and vertical movements of the land itself. In some areas, sea level may actually fall. For much of the planet though, sea levels are expected to continue rising for hundreds of years after atmospheric temperatures stabilise.
