Eeminterglasiaali

Eeminterglasiaali refers to the geological period that occurred approximately 130,000 to 115,000 years ago, during the last interglacial phase of the Pleistocene epoch. This warm period is named after the Eem Sea, located in the Netherlands, where evidence of its existence was first extensively studied. Compared to the present interglacial period, the Eemian was generally warmer and wetter globally.

During the Eeminterglasiaali, global sea levels were significantly higher than today, estimated to be around 6 to 9 meters above current levels. This rise in sea level was due to the melting of ice sheets, particularly in Greenland and Antarctica, driven by warmer temperatures. Evidence for these higher sea levels is found in coastal deposits and submerged landforms around the world.

The climate of the Eeminterglasiaali supported different ecosystems than those prevalent during glacial periods. Forests, including oak and elm, extended further north in Europe and North America than they do today. Fauna also reflected these warmer conditions, with species like hippopotamuses and straight-tusked elephants found in regions that are now too cold for them. The flora and fauna provide valuable insights into past climate conditions and the potential impacts of future warming. Studying the Eeminterglasiaali helps scientists understand natural climate variability and provides a baseline for assessing the impact of anthropogenic climate change.