Soil Moisture Depletion Contributed to 10.78mm Sea-Level Rise, Study Finds
A new study links global soil moisture loss to a 10.78 mm rise in sea levels from 1979 to 2016, highlighting the growing impact of land water depletion on climate and agriculture. Soil moisture loss contributed to 10.78 mm of global sea-level rise between 1979 and 2016, with irreversible trends since 2003. The findings stress the importance of soil moisture data in climate models and disaster management.
A recent study has found that soil moisture depletion contributed to a global mean sea level (GMSL) rise of 10.78 millimetres between 1979 and 2016. The research estimates this corresponds to a loss of 3,941 gigatonnes of water from land. Notably, the decline has been irreversible since 2003, with an additional 2.76 millimetres of sea-level rise recorded between 2003 and 2016, equal to 1,009 gigatonnes of lost land water.
Soil moisture refers to the water content held in the soil, which plays a vital role in the water cycle, supporting agriculture, maintaining ecosystem health, and regulating local and regional climate. Its reduction impacts weather patterns, crop production, groundwater recharge, and contributes to rising sea levels due to the transfer of water from land to oceans.
The study underscores that reduced soil moisture not only contributes to sea-level rise but also intensifies drought conditions globally. Droughts have become more frequent and severe, affecting human populations, agriculture, and ecosystems. These shifts are driven by various climate variables, including changing monsoon patterns, rising temperatures, and inconsistent precipitation.
Experts point out that current drought and flood patterns are significantly influenced by soil moisture content. The loss of soil water affects temperature regulation and has been linked to rising temperatures in specific regions like north-central India. Groundwater depletion is another concern, as it is connected to soil moisture levels, agricultural practices, urban expansion, and reduced rainfall.
Accurate monitoring of soil moisture is essential for enhancing climate models, improving agricultural planning, and strengthening disaster preparedness. However, data remains limited due to a lack of on-ground observation systems, making it challenging to fully understand the broader climate implications.
The study emphasizes the need for better data collection methods for surface and subsurface soil moisture. With more precise data, climate forecasting, crop yield prediction, and water resource management can be improved.
As the effects of climate change intensify, understanding and addressing soil moisture loss is becoming a key factor in mitigating sea-level rise and managing water resources effectively.
Source: DownToEarth, Carbon Brief |
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