Rising Seas to Displace 1.5 Million Australians by 2050: Climate Report Sounds Alarm

Rising Seas Threaten 1.5 Million Australians by 2050: Landmark Climate Report Warns A landmark climate report has sounded the alarm on rising sea levels threatening 1.5 million Australians living in coastal areas by 2050, according to Australia's first National Climate Risk Assessment. The report, released just days before the government announces its emissions reduction targets for 2035, warns that no Australian community will be immune from climate risks. The assessment predicts more frequent and severe climate hazards like floods, cyclones, heatwaves, droughts, and bushfires. Timeline: By 2050, 1.5 million Australians living in coastal areas are at risk from rising sea levels. Australia has already reached warming of above 1.5C, with the report warning that at 3C, heat-related deaths in Sydney may rise by more than 400 and almost triple in Melbourne. Immediate Impact: Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen emphasized the urgent need for action, stating, "Australians are already living with the consequences of climate change today. Every degree of warming we prevent now will help future generations avoid the worst impacts in years to come." Background Context: Australia is one of the world's biggest polluters per capita, and this report highlights the country's vulnerability to climate change. The assessment looked at three global warming scenarios - above 1.5C, above 2C, and above 3C. What Happens Next: The government will announce its emissions reduction targets for 2035 in the coming days, with expectations that they will be more ambitious than previous targets. The report's findings are likely to influence these targets and shape Australia's climate policy moving forward. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Bbc reporting.*