By 2040, Scientists Fear These Cities May Become Unlivable

The impacts of climate change are no longer predictions for the distant future — they are rapidly becoming today’s reality. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and water scarcity are transforming the livability of many cities across the globe. Scientists warn that by 2040, several major cities could become dangerously unlivable, posing serious challenges for millions of residents.

Here’s a look at some cities that could be severely affected — and the reasons behind their looming crises.

1. Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, home to more than 10 million people, is sinking at an alarming rate. Experts estimate that nearly 40% of the city lies below sea level, and it’s sinking by up to 10 inches each year due to groundwater extraction and weak urban planning. Rising sea levels caused by climate change are only making matters worse.

Indonesia has already announced plans to move its capital to Borneo, highlighting just how serious Jakarta’s situation is. By 2040, large parts of the city could be submerged unless drastic measures are taken.

2. Lagos, Nigeria

Africa’s largest city is growing rapidly — but so are its environmental risks. Lagos faces extreme flooding during rainy seasons, made worse by rising sea levels. The city’s coastal position and poor drainage systems increase the likelihood of devastating floods.

Moreover, the combination of intense heat, overcrowding, and limited infrastructure could make living conditions unbearable by 2040 if climate change continues unchecked.

3. Miami, Florida, USA

Miami is often cited as one of the most climate-vulnerable cities in the United States. Rising sea levels are already causing “sunny day flooding,” where seawater backs up through the city’s storm drains on otherwise clear days.

By 2040, regular flooding could make entire neighborhoods uninhabitable. The cost of maintaining the city’s infrastructure against rising waters is skyrocketing, and scientists fear that without significant intervention, parts of Miami may have to be abandoned.

4. New Delhi, India

New Delhi is battling some of the worst air pollution on the planet. Combined with extreme heat waves — which are becoming more frequent and more intense — life in the Indian capital is growing increasingly difficult.

Projections suggest that by 2040, New Delhi could experience deadly heat levels for months at a time. Without serious improvements in air quality and heat management, the health risks for the city’s 30 million residents could make living there extremely hazardous.

5. Dhaka, Bangladesh

Dhaka is already one of the world’s most densely populated cities, and climate change is making it even more vulnerable. The city faces an increasing risk of severe floods, water scarcity, and heat waves.

With rising sea levels threatening Bangladesh’s coastline, millions may be forced to migrate inland, overwhelming Dhaka’s already strained resources. By 2040, these stresses could push the city toward crisis conditions.

6. Basra, Iraq

In southern Iraq, the city of Basra is facing a water crisis. Salinity levels in the Shatt al-Arab river, which provides the city’s drinking water, have skyrocketed due to reduced river flow and rising sea levels.

Combined with soaring temperatures that often exceed 50°C (122°F), Basra’s living conditions are becoming extreme. Scientists warn that by 2040, Basra could face unlivable levels of heat and water scarcity if no solutions are found.

The Bigger Picture: Climate Migration and Global Challenges

If these cities — home to tens of millions of people — become unlivable, the consequences will extend far beyond their borders. Climate migration could become one of the defining issues of the 21st century, triggering humanitarian crises, political instability, and economic challenges worldwide.

Addressing these threats requires urgent, coordinated action:

• Investing in resilient infrastructure to withstand extreme weather.
• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions to slow the pace of climate change.
• Protecting coastal cities with smart urban planning and flood defenses.
• Developing sustainable water management strategies for drought-prone areas.

Conclusion: The Time to Act is Now

The warnings are clear: without immediate and significant action, some of the world’s most iconic cities could face devastating futures by 2040. Scientists stress that while the outlook is serious, it’s not inevitable. Through innovation, global cooperation, and bold leadership, it’s still possible to turn the tide and create a more sustainable future for these at-risk cities — and for generations to come.