Scientists believe rising temperatures in the past century have been caused at least in part by man's activities, resulting in rising levels of oceans, which expand when warmed. A U.N.-organized network of scientists predicts continued emissions at current rates would raise global temperatures 2 to 6 degrees by 2100, and sea levels 6 inches to 3 feet. Islands and shorelines would be inundated, climate zones would shift abruptly, weather would grow more turbulent. Climate system's extreme complexity means computer simulations of warming and its impact are imprecise.
Skeptics say that's a weak basis for international action.
Major uncertainties involve the role of clouds in warming or cooling atmosphere, and the role of oceans in absorbing atmospheric heat. Copyright 1997 Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.