Study Predicts Saltwater Intrusion in Coastal Groundwater by 2100

A NASA-led study predicts that by 2100, saltwater will infiltrate underground freshwater supplies in 77% of coastal areas worldwide due to sea level rise and reduced groundwater recharge, driven by climate change. This saltwater intrusion threatens to make coastal aquifers undrinkable, harm ecosystems, and damage infrastructure. The study highlights the need for tailored management strategies depending on whether sea level rise or reduced recharge is the dominant factor in a given area.