The impact of global warming on African cities

Sea levels rising at an alarming rate pose a significant threat to African cities, including coastal cities in South Africa. Dr. Ben Strauss, Vice President at Princeton, sheds light on the severity of this threat during a recent interview on CNBC Africa. According to Dr. Strauss, the risk of sea levels rising faster and sooner than previously anticipated is becoming increasingly likely due to the instability of the Antarctic ice sheet. In worst-case scenarios, sea levels could rise by two meters or more within this century. This presents a grave danger to coastal cities worldwide, including those in South Africa. Nations such as Egypt and Nigeria, situated on deltas, face the greatest risk. South Africa, particularly a major city like Durban, is also vulnerable to immense flooding caused by rising sea levels. The urgency of addressing this issue is underscored by the drastic difference in impact between a 2-degree and a 4-degree temperature rise. Dr. Strauss emphasizes the need for nations to transition to clean energy economies, reduce carbon emissions, and implement sustainable practices to limit temperature rise to 2 degrees or less. Despite the challenges posed by climate change, there is a growing political will to combat these issues. The Paris Agreement was a significant step in this direction, but uncertainties remain, especially with the changing administrations in various countries like the United States. Dr. Strauss highlights the importance of timely action to prevent irreversible damage to the planet and future generations. The global community must come together to address the imminent threat of rising sea levels and safeguard our collective heritage.