The earth boasts of thousands of places worthy to explore but there are hundreds of them that become extinct by the ticking of the clock. Here’s a list of 11 places to see before they’re gone forever.
1. Venice
The romantic Italian city of Venice is sinking five times faster than expected. Scientific findings show that the “City of Canals” is tilting to the east side and is leading to the Adriatic Sea. People who would like to see this enchanting city and its intricate canal systems should head out there soon. Flash floods are recent occurrences in Venice so it is no secret that the floating city might no longer float within a few years.
2. Glacier National Park, Montana, USA
Glacier National Park lies in the state of Montana, USA. It boasts of rolling hills, unspoiled forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountain systems and impressive lakes. Strategically located in the Canadian borders of Alberta and British Columbia, this national park is home to a number of stunning glaciers that has an area of more than one million acres. Experts predicted that the remaining 25 glaciers will be gone by 2030 so it is advisable to go there before they become totally gone.
3. Belize Barrier Reef System
Considered to be the second largest reef system in the world, the Belize Barrier Reef System is one of the best diving spots to see. It features its claim-to-fame “Great Blue Hole” which is ideal for diving. Recently it is deemed to be in danger of disappearing due to substantial mangrove cutting to pave the way for development in the said area.
4. Tuvalu
This tropical paradise which sits between Australia and Hawaii is in danger of vanishing due to the damaging effect of global warming. Recent reports show that this small Polynesian island is slowly being submerged by rising water as ice caps and sheets melt due to drastic climate change.
5. Amazon rainforest
The diverse and lush flora and fauna of the Amazon jungle is also experiencing the harsh effects of global warming. Latest studies confirm that there is a sudden rise of global temperature of 2 degrees Celsius. This increase in temperature adversely affect 20-40% of the Amazon rainforest, the very reason why it will become extinct in the next century.
6. Mountains of Potosi, Bolivia
Bolivia is blessed with the Andes mountain range and one of its highlights is the incredibly towering, red and the impeccable conical shape of Potosi’s Cerro Rico or also known as Rich Hill. Potosi is known as a haven of pure silver so consistent mining was prevalent for the past 500 years. Efforts are now being exerted to preserve Potosi as it is in danger of being worn out.
7. Dead Sea, Israel
The Dead Sea is a well-renowned salty lake situated between the Jordan, Israel and Palestinian regions. It is a famous landmark that draws thousands of travelers and pilgrims for its Biblical significance and health benefits. However, the Dead Sea might not be around for a long time as freshwater starts to infiltrate its territory.
8. Maldives
Maldives is a favorite holiday destination for its famous clear blue waters and diverse 1,192 islands. This beautiful Asian country is dotted with hundreds of luxury hotels so it is no wonder why it is a perfect retreat for the rich and famous. However, Maldives is in danger of disappearing from the planet earth due to the rising sea levels brought about by extreme climate change.
9. Kiribati
The Republic of Kiribati is a picturesque island country that is strategically situated in central Pacific Ocean. The severe effects of global warming is widely felt in this tropical county as the warm weather renders most of its land uninhabitable. Majority of its residents are also being relocated to escape the unbearable heat.
10. Patagonia
Patagonia is a beautiful region being sandwiched by Argentina and Chile at the southern tip of South America. A land of pristine beauty and splendor, Patagonia is on the brink of disappearing due to the drastic results of climate change. Most of its glaciers are melting away due to rising temperatures.
11. Madagascar’s wildlife
Madagascar is the fourth biggest island in the world and considered to be a concentration camp of abundant flora and fauna. However since the arrival of men in this country, almost 90% of the country’s lush rainforest has been lost. The prevalent practice of slash-and-burn also dramatically affected its rich biodiversity.