U.S. sea levels rose by a record 5 inches in 2 years

Sea levels are on the rise, and they're not slowing down anytime soon.

A new study published in the journal Nature Communications found that sea levels north of New York City rose by 128mm — more than five inches — in two years. Scientists at the University of Arizona and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration found that sea level rising will likely become more common within the next century.

"The extreme sea level rise event during 2009-10 along the northeast coast of North America is unprecedented during the past century," Jianjun Yin of the University of Arizona told BBC News. "Statistical analysis indicates that it is a 1-in-850 year event."

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Yin explained that coastal storms cause extreme sea levels and storm surges, adding that coastal communities should "prepare for short and extreme sea level rise events" in addition to long-term sea level rising.