Accelerated Sea Level Rise Threatens Pacific Islands, Warns WMO
Sea levels in the South-West Pacific are rising faster than the global average, posing a threat to low-lying islands and their inhabitants. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported that water levels are increasing at a rate of about 4 mm per year in some areas, slightly above the global mean rate. This could lead to the flooding and destruction of agricultural and habitable lands in countries like Tuvalu and the Solomon Islands. Additionally, the region has experienced marine heatwaves, damaging marine ecosystems and impacting local communities. The WMO warned that the return of El Niño this year would further exacerbate the situation, bringing higher temperatures, disruptive weather patterns, and more marine heatwaves.