How does climate change impact coastal areas?

The impact of climate change on coastal areas is significant, and rising sea levels along with increased storm intensity are direct consequences of this phenomenon. As global temperatures rise due to climate change, polar ice melts and ocean waters expand, leading to higher sea levels. This rise in sea levels can result in the flooding of low-lying coastal areas, loss of habitats, and increased salinity that can harm freshwater sources.

Moreover, climate change also contributes to the frequency and severity of storms, such as hurricanes and tropical storms. Warmer ocean temperatures provide more energy to storms, increasing their intensity and potential for destruction when they make landfall. This dual effect of rising sea levels and more powerful storms poses serious challenges for coastal management, infrastructure, and ecosystems.

While other choices may suggest different impacts on coastal areas, they do not accurately reflect the scientifically observed effects of climate change. For instance, increased biodiversity is not a direct result of climate change, and coastal temperatures are generally rising rather than decreasing. Stabilizing coastlines against erosion contradicts the reality that rising sea levels and intensified weather often exacerbate erosion processes. Therefore, the assertion that climate change causes rising sea levels and increased storm intensity accurately captures the essence of this critical environmental issue.