Coral reefs are important and productive ocean ecosystems, providing shelter and protection for diverse sea life. NOAA's latest seasonal outlook for coral bleaching shows potential for bleaching along the Pacific coast of Mexico and islands in the equatorial central Pacific Ocean.

On September 12, the extent of sea ice in the Arctic reached the third lowest level ever recorded since satellite records began in 1979. Only 2007 and 2008 have had smaller ice extents than 2009.

As the ocean absorbs atmospheric carbon dioxide, the pH of the water drops. The more acidic water harms corals and other shell-building sea life.

Improved computer models help scientists understand Earth’s ocean.

“If the sea level goes up two or three feet along the coast of Maine in this century, that’s a very significant change.”  

Climate scientists discuss what they know about global climate change today, and how they know it.

Climate scientists explain why they’re sure the primary cause of global climate change today is increasing human emission of greenhouse gases — mainly carbon dioxide.  

NOAA Earth scientists discuss their roles and responsibilities in sharing what they know about the climate system with the public.

“The fact is scientists really can’t predict at this time what the impacts will be on any particular species.”  

Rhode Island's coasts are already feeling the impacts of rising seas. The Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council and Rhode Island Sea Grant are working with the legislature to explicitly address sea level rise and climate change in the state's building code.