Rising Seas Could Threaten Half of Arctic Communities by 2100

AGU Earth’s Future, 16 December 2024

This interdisciplinary risk assessment of coastal threats consolidated data on erosion, sea-level rise, and permafrost thaw across the Arctic to produce the first comprehensive map illustrating the vulnerability of coastal communities and infrastructure to climate change. Results show that by 2100, 45% of coastal settlements will be impacted by sea-level rise and 21% by coastal erosion, endangering both these communities and nearby wildlife. The study also shows permafrost is thawing quickly, with potentially 77% of current Arctic infrastructure resting on ground that is no longer frozen solid but crumbling and subsiding by 2100. This thaw, in addition to the sea-level rise and erosion, will greatly threaten Arctic settlements. The research emphasizes the need for action, resources, and adaptation strategies to protect these communities.

Full Paper: https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2024EF005013
Press Release from AGU: https://news.agu.org/press-release/most-arctic-infrastructure-faces-instability/