Florida’s current climate
Several factors currently threaten the well-being of Florida’s climate, and if left alone they will greatly harm the state Data compilation by staff writer Lily Goron.
SEA LEVEL RISE
2.4%
RED TIDE
of Florida land is at risk of flooding due to rises in sea level.
Red Tide is a harmful algae bloom along Florida’s west coast.
The leading cause of sea level rise is greenhouse gas emissions.
The toxins within the algae bloom harm nervous systems after consumption.
100
8 inches
miles of red tide can spread along the Florida coastline.
Sea level is higher today than it was in 1950.
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Over million fish have been removed from waterways.
INVASIVE SPECIES 500+
Invasive species currently inhabit the state of Florida. Burmese Python: This invasive snake population occupies Florida’s Everglades.
Lionfish: These predatory reef fish wipe out native fish populations and disrupt the food chain. Green Iguana: The burrows of these reptiles disrupt the foundation of Florida’s infrastructure.
SOURCES: SeaLevelRise.org, Tampa Bay’s National Public Radio, Massachusetts institute of Technology, Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida, National Invasive Species Information Center, National Wildlife Federation, Visit Florida, NASA
opinion
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