Can a Rise in Sea Level Cause Earthquakes?
Global Climatologists are now predicting a rise in sea level up to 3 meters in the next 75 years due to Global Warming and Climate Change. Obviously this is not good news for anyone living close to the Ocean on islands, which are low in elevation or near beaches. But what else could this rise in ocean sea levels change? Well some believe it could increase seismic and volcanic activity as well. One gentleman recently brought this to mention in an online think tank and stated;
“I haven’t seen anything on this topic before and was wondering if there was any data on how increased ocean levels can effect plate tectonics? What I’m thinking is this. If ocean levels rise 3mm (yearly average) across 75% of the planet, what is the added pressure on tectonic plates?”
Yes, sure good point, although it would equal out and then be fine supposedly although you might have the interim during such a 30-70 year period with lots of more quakes than usual? Although some believe that water provides more lubrication and eases the problems with quakes?
“I’m also wondering how this would pan out in specific scenarios. For instance, the Pacific Plate is almost entirely covered with water, however, where it meets the North American plate, it’s hitting land.”
Good point could cause issues with squeezing or rapid change of the leading edge of the plate being crashed into now but pulling apart for a splinter in geological time. Could cause issues sure? Could it cause a slide onto Salt Lake City? Super Volcanoes in WY or Volcanic and seismic along mountains ranges; sure, perhaps? And thus maybe we might consider all this in 2006.
“Lance Winslow” – Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/
