Frequently Asked Questions

What time period does SeaLevelMap.io cover?

SeaLevelMap.io provides an interactive display of the global sea level changes spanning the past 135,000 years. It covers both the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs, encompassing Marine Isotope Stages 1-5 (MIS 1-5).

Note - Ice sheet layer is currently not complete beyond 60,000 years ago

How accurate is the sea level data on SeaLevelMap.io?

The sea level data on SeaLevelMap.io is gathered from scientific sources and research. However, given the complexities involved in modeling past sea levels, there are inherent uncertainties. Our models aim to provide the most accurate representation of past sea levels possible given current scientific understanding. Learn More

How do I navigate through different time periods on the map?

You can navigate through different time periods using the time slider at the bottom of the screen. As you adjust the slider, the map will automatically reflect the sea level changes corresponding to that particular time.

Does SeaLevelMap.io predict future sea level changes?

SeaLevelMap.io does not provide predictions of future sea level changes. Projecting future sea levels involves complex models that incorporate various factors, including ice melt rates, ocean warming, atmospheric conditions, and human-induced climate change.

Given the intricate nature of these variables, accurately predicting long-term sea level changes is a scientific challenge. Our platform is primarily designed to help users explore past changes in sea level and understand the geological history of Earth's coastlines and ice sheets.

For up-to-date information on future sea level rise predictions and ongoing scientific research, we recommend visiting these reputable sources:

• NASA's Sea Level Change Portal

• NOAA's CoastWatch Program

• Climate Central's Coastal Risk Screening Tool

• UCAR's Climate Data Guide on Sea Surface Height

Can I explore the Earth's sea levels in deeper time using SeaLevelMap.io?

SeaLevelMap.io is currently designed to visualize sea level changes over the past 135,000 years, encompassing the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs. For exploring sea levels and geological changes in "deeper time", beyond this period, we recommend the following resources:

• Ancient Earth by Dinosaur Pictures: This tool allows you to view the Earth's continents at various points in time, going back over 750 million years.

• Deep Time Maps: Here you can find paleogeographic maps representing the Earth's ancient landscapes through hundreds of millions of years of geologic time.

• EarthByte: The PaleoMap PaleoAtlas for GPlates provides digital maps that illustrate the plate tectonic development of ocean basins and continents, as well as the changing distribution of land and sea over the past 1100 million years.

What is the Last Glacial Maximum?

The Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) refers to the period in Earth's history when ice sheets were at their greatest extent, around 24,000-16,000 years ago. This period is covered by the interactive map. Learn More

What are Marine Isotope Stages (MIS)?

Marine Isotope Stages (MIS) are alternating warm and cold periods in the Earth's past, deduced from oxygen isotope data representing global ice volume and temperature change. SeaLevelMap.io specifically covers MIS 1-5. Learn More

What does BP stand for on the map scale?

“BP” means Before Present, so 60k BP is 60,000 years before present.

What do you mean by "global mean sea level"?

Global mean sea level (GMSL) is the average height of the ocean's surface (the midpoint between high and low tide), used as a standard to measure land elevation and ocean depths across the globe. It's important for understanding the overall rise or fall of sea levels over time. Learn More

What is Glacial-Isostatic Adjustment (GIA)?

Glacial Isostatic Adjustment (GIA) is the ongoing movement of land once burdened by ice-age glaciers. During the last ice age, the weight of massive ice sheets caused the Earth's crust to bend and depress. When the ice melted, the land began to slowly rise, a process that continues today. This is known as GIA and it's crucial to consider when studying sea level change because it affects our understanding of the rate at which ocean basins are changing volume, and therefore, how fast water levels are rising or falling. Learn More

Can I use SeaLevelMap.io for educational purposes?

Yes! We encourage the use of SeaLevelMap.io for educational purposes. The interactive map serves as a valuable tool for visualizing Earth's geological history and understanding the science of sea levels. Please contact us if you are an educator with additional questions.

Are there any plans to expand the time period covered by SeaLevelMap.io?

Yes, our goal is to expand and .evolve Sealevelmap.io. Please contact us if you like to contribute. Any updates will be communicated via our social and Discord communities.