Short Wave Why Scientists Are Racing To Save Historical Sea Level Records
Apr 16, 2021
In this engaging discussion, NPR climate correspondent Lauren Sommer shares insights on the crucial role of historical records in understanding sea level rise. She explains how century-old tidal data, meticulously documented by early researchers, helps predict future changes. The conversation highlights the challenges scientists face in accessing and digitizing these records. Sommer also emphasizes the urgent need for coastal communities, like Douala in Cameroon, to prepare for the impacts of climate change based on what history can teach us.
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Hilbre Island's Tide Logs
- Hilbre Island, off Liverpool's coast, is tidal, connected to the mainland only part-time.
- Former residents, who ran a telegraph and lifeboat station, meticulously recorded tide heights every 15 minutes for decades.
Value of Old Tide Data
- These old tide logs are now crucial for understanding sea level rise.
- Scientists need this historical data to predict future sea levels and help coastal communities prepare.
Tide Recording Process
- Tide measurements were recorded in detailed ledgers, sometimes with notes about missing data.
- An automatic system with a float and pen recorded the tide, which was then transcribed.