An Australian government climate report published on Tuesday revealed that Sydney is "at risk" of rising sea levels due to climate change. The state of New South Wales, where the major Australian city is located, warned that Sydney could face an average temperature increase of 1.8 degrees Celsius by 2050, a rise that could potentially double by 2090 if the pace of climate warming is not curtailed.
These temperature increases could result in serious problems for residents of coastal areas and those close to forests. The report indicated that the Sydney Opera House, one of the city's most famous landmarks located by the harbor, as well as beaches in the northern part of the city, will be significantly affected by this situation.
Under the most pessimistic scenario, sea levels in Sydney could rise by 56 centimeters by 2090. However, cities farther from the coast will experience the worst temperature extremes. By 2090, residents in these areas may have to endure one-third of the year with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius, according to the study.
Authorities are seeking solutions to help these cities confront the "future hardship" as effectively as possible. Among these solutions is the establishment of shelters for residents in case of extreme heat, as well as ensuring that hospitals are equipped with necessary resources to treat heat-related illnesses.
New South Wales Climate Change Minister Penny Sharpe stated, "This data will help protect vital infrastructure, such as hospitals, transport networks, dams, and energy systems from the impacts of climate change, including extreme heat, fires, and floods.” According to national health data, heat was responsible for 7,104 hospital admissions and 293 deaths in Australia between 2012 and 2022.
