Global Sea Level Exceeds Predictions, Southeast Asia at the Frontline

Global coastal sea level is about 1 foot higher than previously assumed, with gaps up to 3 feet in Southeast Asia, because many studies relied on models without satellite measurements; a review of 385 papers found 90% used model-based estimates, risking 132 million more people being exposed sooner than projected. The authors call for recalibrating baselines by integrating satellite data with models, while long-term rise projections stay the same.