Scientists at Florida's top universities have put together a picture of Florida's future in light of the phenomenon of global climate change, and it's not pretty. Here's a snapshot of how global warming will hit home in the Sunshine State; click on the boxed labels for explanations.

Sugarcane, tomato, and citrus in south Florida may decline, due to altered growing conditions.

More intense droughts may increase the threat wildfires pose to forests and property.

Anticipated sea level rise, combined with storm surge, will flood property and erode beaches in low-lying areas unless expensive protective measures are taken. Tourism and freshwater supplies may be damaged.

Elderly and low-income people, primarily in cities, are the most likely to be harmed by higher temperatures and increased risk of disease.

Anticipated sea level rise may inundate the Everglades and other coastal wetlands, destroying natural areas and hurting tourism.

Warmer water may contribute to widespread bleaching and decline of reefs.

Based on FEELING THE HEAT IN FLORIDA: Global Warming on the Local Level, an October 2001 report by the Florida Climate Alliance and the Natural Resources Defense Council.

Related NRDC Pages
Global Warming Threatens Florida
Fact Sheet: Hitting Us Where We Live

last revised 10.23.01