Summary
A new study found that sea levels are higher than scientists previously believed due to miscalculations. This could mean millions more people are at risk from rising seas, especially in areas like the Pacific and Southeast Asia.
Key Facts
- A study published in the journal Nature found that scientists underestimated how high coastal waters are by about 1 foot (30 centimeters).
- This underestimation could place millions more people at risk from rising sea levels.
- The error was found in about 90% of the scientific studies examined.
- The issue is more common in regions like the Global South, the Pacific, and Southeast Asia.
- The problem comes from a mismatch in how sea and land heights are measured.
- A "methodological blind spot" in measurement techniques caused the error, according to a researcher involved in the study.
- The study highlights the need for more accurate assessments to better understand climate risks.
