Question

Which coastal region of the United States will be the most impacted by sea level rise?

1) East Coast
2) West Coast
3) Gulf Coast
4) Great Lakes

Answer 1

The Gulf Coast option (3) is expected to be the most impacted region by sea level rise in the United States, with significant land loss already documented and exacerbated by regional vulnerabilities.

Step-by-step explanation:

The coastal region of the United States that will likely be the most impacted by sea level rise is the Gulf Coast. This determination is based on findings that indicate significant land area has already been lost to increasing sea levels, as seen in the Southeastern United States.

Figure 13.9.8 shows a negative net amount of land along the Atlantic coast, with a particular focus on the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, depicting substantial land lost to open water since 1996. Furthermore, the Gulf Coast has notable vulnerabilities due to its low elevation, subsidence issues, and exposure to tropical storms that can exacerbate the effects of sea level rise.

It's critical to note that warming temperatures contribute to sea level rise not only by melting polar ice but also by expanding ocean waters. Local factors, such as land elevation changes and regional geological forces, will influence the extent of relative sea level rises for specific coastlines.

Answer 2

The Gulf Coast of the United States will be the most impacted by sea level rise.

The answer is option ⇒3

Step-by-step explanation:

The Gulf Coast of the United States is indeed the coastal region that will be most impacted by sea level rise. Here are the key details supporting this answer:

1. Sea level rise impacts: Scientists have observed land area loss in the Gulf Coast region since 1996 due to increasing sea levels. The combination of rising sea levels and subsidence, which is the sinking of land, contributes to the vulnerability of the Gulf Coast.

2. Low-lying areas: The Gulf Coast is characterized by low-lying coastal plains, making it more susceptible to the effects of sea level rise. These low-lying areas are at higher risk of coastal erosion, flooding, and saltwater intrusion.

3. Storm vulnerability: The Gulf Coast is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, which can exacerbate the impacts of sea level rise. Storm surge, the rise in sea level during a storm, can cause significant coastal flooding and erosion.

4. Economic and ecological significance: The Gulf Coast is home to major cities such as Houston, New Orleans, and Tampa, as well as important industries including oil and gas production and tourism. The impacts of sea level rise on infrastructure, coastal communities, and ecosystems in the Gulf Coast could have far-reaching economic and environmental consequences.

The answer is option ⇒3