Weather Worries- New Jersey

Part II. The Case of Disappearing Land

Observe and Analyze- Based on the trend shown in the graph, what will the sea level change be in 100 years?

	Theoretical image showing areas in the state of Florida that would be affected by a one meter rise in sea level.
image source: NASA	image source: NASA

Investigation Question:   What effect would your forecasted sea level change have on New Jersey?

Collect Background Information

Begin your investigation by finding the answers to these questions.

• What parts of New Jersey would be below sea level based on your forecast?

• What effect would sea level rise have on New Jersey's rivers?
  • Use the topographic maps of New Jersey
  • Use the  elevation and river maps of New Jersey
  Sketch a map of New Jersey showing the effects of a rise in sea level. 

Evaluate Your Findings

Compare your map to the US Global Change Research Program map .

Check out what the experts think.

After watching the video, describe how climate change might be causing the following observed changes.

• Increased intensity of coastal storms
• Increased flooding
• Shorter cycle of severe storms

Bring It Home

What effect would a category 3 hurricane have on your community?  Find out what your community emergency plans are.  Write a newspaper story, or news broadcast script to report you findings.

Extend Your Investigation

Research the effect of tropical storm Floyd on New Jersey.  Interview people who were affected by the hurricane.  Contact schools in areas that were affected by the storm to find out how the community has recovered. 

Websites

New Jersey Office of Emergency Management - Go

Related Videos

"Flooding Protection”
NJN News
July 18, 2006

Information for Teachers - Lesson Planning

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