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How Much Has Sea Level Risen Since I Was Born?

Global sea levels have been rising steadily due to thermal expansion of warming oceans and melting ice sheets. See how much the seas have risen during your lifetime.

Track Your Lifetime of Sea Level Rise

Enter your birthdate to discover how much sea level has risen since you were born — a measure of the warming your life has witnessed.

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The Science of Sea Level Rise

Causes of Sea Level Rise

Sea level rise is driven primarily by thermal expansion of warming ocean water and the melting of land-based ice (glaciers and ice sheets). Since 1993, global sea level has risen at an accelerating rate of approximately 3.6 mm per year.

Future Projections

The IPCC projects sea levels could rise by 0.3 to 1.1 meters by 2100, depending on emissions scenarios. Even the most optimistic scenarios imply continued rise for centuries due to the thermal inertia of the oceans.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much has sea level risen since 1900?

Global average sea level has risen by approximately 21-24 cm (8-10 inches) since 1900, with the rate accelerating in recent decades.

What is the current rate of sea level rise?

The current rate is approximately 3.6 mm per year, and it is accelerating. In some regions, the rate is even higher due to local factors.

How does sea level rise affect coastal cities?

Rising seas threaten coastal communities through increased flooding, storm surge intensity, saltwater intrusion into freshwater, and erosion of shorelines. Over 1 billion people live in low-lying coastal zones.

How does UniversePulse calculate sea level rise?

UniversePulse uses a mathematical model based on IPCC data and satellite observations, estimating cumulative sea level rise since your birthdate.

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