century, sea levels have been rising in the New York Metropolitan region by about an inch per decade.

Recent research based on global climate models suggests a possible range of regional sea level rise of 2.5 to 7 inches in the next 25 years, 6 to 15 inches in the next 50 years, and 1 to 3 feet in the next 100 years.

These projections are uncertain, however, in part because climate models cannot currently tell us how ice sheets may respond to increasing temperatures. If melting of ice sheets accelerates, sea level rise will likely be higher.

How does an increase in temperature affect sea level rise?

Increasing ocean temperatures cause ocean water to expand, leading to higher sea levels. Increasing air temperatures can cause sea level to rise, either indirectly by causing ocean warming or directly by melting land ice that then flows to the sea. The situation is made even more complex by the role of atmospheric temperature change in modifying the balance of precipitation and evaporation over land and ocean.

Yearly seasonal temperatures as measured at Millstone Power Station in New London, CT. On average, temperatures have increased over the past 30 years
 

What are the implications of continued sea level rise in Long Island Sound, and what do we need to do to adapt if this trend continues?

Rising seas in Long Island Sound may increase the intensity, duration, and frequency of high water levels associated with coastal storm flooding. Coastal flooding threatens natural ecosystems as well as commercial, civil, and residential infrastructure and assets. Flooding can also cause groundwater pollution. A range of possible adaptation measures should be considered, including building seawalls, restoring wetlands to act as natural buffers, and modifying coastal development policies. 

Coastal storm flooding, as experienced in Guilford, CT as a consequence of a 2007 nor'easter, may increase in intensity as a result of rising seas.
 

Back to top