The Impact of Increasing Ocean Wave Size on Earth's Ecosystems

Stormier seas and larger ocean swells, fueled by rising global temperatures, are causing increased wave energy that is pounding Earth's seafloor with more force, similar to tiny earthquakes. The North Atlantic Ocean has experienced the highest increase in wave energy, followed by the Southern Ocean around Antarctica. The intensifying waves, coupled with rising sea levels, pose a threat to coastal communities, erode land, and impact coastal infrastructure. The increase in wave activity is a result of stronger storms with intensified winds, driven by global warming. As temperatures continue to rise, wave activity is expected to intensify, exacerbating coastal risks.