A new simulation led by the University of Bristol offers a chilling glimpse into Earth’s distant future. In 250 million years, the planet could be unrecognizable. Conditions might become so extreme that they could push mammals, including humans, to extinction. As Earth’s landmasses merge, a supercontinent known as Pangaea Ultima will form. This new landmass will be subject to intense heat and volcanic activity, making survival nearly impossible for mammals.
According to the simulation, the formation of Pangaea Ultima will drastically change Earth’s climate. The supercontinent will create a heat trap in its landlocked interior. Without the moderating influence of oceans, temperatures could soar to 50°C (122°F) in many areas. Such extreme heat will create a hostile environment where mammals struggle to survive. Earth’s surface will become inhospitable, and the conditions could be lethal for species reliant on cooler temperatures.
THE TRIPLE THREAT: HEAT, HUMIDITY, AND VOLCANIC ACTIVITY
The future Earth will face more than just heat. Increased volcanic activity will release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, amplifying the greenhouse effect. As the Sun’s luminosity increases, temperatures will rise even further. The combination of heat, volcanic activity, and a higher carbon concentration will create a vicious cycle. This makes it increasingly difficult for mammals to thrive. Rising humidity levels will further hinder survival. Sweating will be less effective at evaporating, making it nearly impossible for mammals to cool down.
The study predicts that 92% of Earth’s land will become uninhabitable. Only polar and coastal regions might remain habitable, offering a slim chance for survival. Dr. Alexander Farnsworth, the study’s lead researcher, describes this scenario as a “triple whammy” for mammals. Extreme heat, high humidity, and volcanic activity work together to create deadly conditions.
HUMAN ADAPTATIONS AND THE POSSIBILITY OF SURVIVAL
What does this future hold for humans? While extinction is a possibility, humans might evolve heat-resistant traits over millions of years. The study also suggests that technology could play a key role in survival. Underground cities, for example, could offer protection from the unbearable surface conditions. Humans may even become nocturnal, much like desert creatures, to avoid the scorching daytime heat.
A NEW HOPE: COLONIZING OTHER PLANETS
Another possibility for humanity’s survival could lie beyond Earth. Some scientists believe that if humanity can colonize other planets, Earth’s looming catastrophe could be avoided. This scenario offers an alternative to the mass extinction that could unfold on our planet. However, the survival of humanity may no longer depend solely on Earth’s resources.
THE CYCLE OF MASS EXTINCTIONS AND SUPERCONTINENT SHIFTS
Supercontinents have played a role in mass extinctions throughout Earth’s history. The shifting of tectonic plates, coupled with volcanic activity, has led to severe climate changes that have wiped out species. The formation of Pangaea Ultima is expected to follow a similar pattern. It may cause disruptions to the planet’s climate. This could potentially lead to another mass extinction event.
ADAPTATION: EARTH’S RESILIENT FUTURE
Despite the grim predictions, Dr. Hannah Davies, a co-author of the study, believes life will adapt. While mass extinction is a possibility, life on Earth has always found ways to survive. Whether through evolutionary changes or technological advances, humans and other species might find ways to endure even in the face of extreme conditions.
THE UNCERTAIN FUTURE OF EARTH AND HUMANITY
Published in Nature, this study serves as a reminder that Earth’s climate is constantly evolving. While we won’t face this extreme catastrophe today, the planet’s vast timeline means that such changes are inevitable in the distant future. The future of humanity remains uncertain, but as history shows, life is resilient and will continue to adapt, regardless of the challenges ahead.
