So let’s face it. The Internet faces many threats, from ID hackers to censorship issues. But what about environmental issues and changes? Can rising seas threaten the Internet?
So studies from universities say yes they can. Also, the studies say the threat can come sooner than we think. Because in 15 years, by the 2030s, 4,000 miles of fiber-optic cables could go underwater! This would lead to internet outages and shortages all around the country. They would come suddenly. This is according to the University of Wisconson-Madison and University of Oregon.? They used maps that predicted rising seas and coasts.
Some cities and regions would be harder hit than others. For example, they think 20% of New York City’s fiber-optic cables will be gone by the year 2033. Then include the fiber-optic systems that connect from NYC to other cities and database centers. In 15 years, rising seas can destroy a third of them. They also say other coastal cities, like Seattle, Los Angeles and Miami, are especially venerable. Don’t think you’re off the hook because you’re inland. Because a river flood, and we see a lot of those lately, can cause Internet problems. That is if the ripple effects of the coastal cities don’t get you first.
Many scientist thought we had decades to address this issue. But now, we know better. This is a big problem and only a short time to address it. I think of Boston and our computer service shop. Many maps say before 2100, much of this great city will be underwater. I’m sure our city, and Internet and IT service industries are under the gun as well. Back in January 2018, some of the city flooded due to a combination of a blizzard and high tide. That’s all it took. If the sea rises in a short time like they predict, then can you imagine what damage it will do the the Internet? Can rising seas threaten the Internet? What do we do about it?