How Will Global Warming Change the Earth?

The impact of increased surface temperatures is significant in itself. But global warming will have additional, far-reaching effects on planet.

Changing Weather

For most places, global warming will result in more frequent hot days and fewer cool days, with the greatest warming occurring over land; more intense heat waves will become common. Storms, floods and droughts will be more severe as rainfall patterns change. Hurricanes may increase in intensity due to warmer ocean surface temperatures.

Rising Sea Levels

The weather isn’t the only thing global warming will impact: Rising sea levels will erode coasts and cause more frequent coastal flooding. Some island nations will disappear. The problem is serious because up to 10 percent of the world’s population lives in vulnerable areas less than 10 meters above sea level.

Impacting People

The changes to weather will also affect people more directly. Hardest hit will be those living in low-lying coastal areas, and residents of poorer countries who don’t have resources to adapt to changes in temperature extremes and water resources. As tropical temperature zones expand, the reach of some infectious diseases, will change. More intense rains and hurricanes and rising sea levels will lead to more severe flooding and loss of property and life.