What is the likely outcome of rising sea levels due to climate change?

Rising sea levels due to climate change primarily result from the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, as well as the thermal expansion of seawater as it warms. This leads to the flooding of low-lying areas, which are particularly vulnerable to higher water levels. Coastal cities and communities often experience significant impacts, including the inundation of land, damage to infrastructure, loss of housing, and displacement of populations.

The flooding of these areas can also lead to more severe ecological consequences, such as the loss of freshwater ecosystems and changes in local biodiversity. As sea levels rise, saltwater intrusion can further compromise freshwater supplies and agricultural land.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of rising sea levels. While some coastal habitats might be negatively impacted, the notion of their expansion is not aligned with observed trends. Increased drought in all regions is a more complex issue tied to climate change but not directly caused by sea level rise. Lastly, one would expect rising sea levels to correlate with warmer, not lower, temperatures in coastal cities, as climate change generally leads to overall warming.