Researchers from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have warned that global sea levels could rise by 1.9 meters (6.2 feet) by 2100 if carbon dioxide emissions continue to increase.
The researchers confirmed that this rise in sea levels could lead to the flooding of many coastal cities around the world, including Hull, London, and Cardiff.
Dr. Benjamin Grandi, the lead author of the study, explained that the grim projections suggest officials need to take urgent measures to plan for future infrastructure, and emphasized the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
The study used an innovative approach combining statistical methods and expert judgment to provide more reliable estimates of sea level rise.
The researchers predicted that if high-emission scenarios continue, sea levels could rise between 0.5 meters and 1.9 meters by the end of the century.
The impact of this rise will be widespread, with many coastal areas in the UK, including cities like Hull, Skegness, and Grimsby, expected to be submerged, along with inland areas such as Peterborough and Lincoln.
Other cities around the world, like New Orleans and Galveston in the United States, are also expected to be affected.
The study aims to highlight the urgent need to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to face the challenges of climate change and protect coastal cities and communities from future risks.
