One issue that has stirred controversy all over the news and in the current presidential debate is global warming. The effects have been seen around the world, and global warming is quickly becoming a major topic of concern. Global warming is the increase in the earth's temperature. When the earth's temperature rises, we have climate change. When this climate change occurs, changes in sea levels, precipitation, wildlife also occur, and this obviously affects humans. (Global Warming) It is caused by the release of carbon dioxide also known as Co2. Carbon dioxide is released from the use of man-made fossil fuels, such as oil, coal and natural gas. Co2 traps heat within the Earth's atmosphere that would normally be found in space, causing the greenhouse effect. As the Earth's surface warms, it becomes too hot to live on, and many people, animals and plants will suffer. (EPA) The earth's temperature changes naturally over the years, but record temperatures have risen dramatically over the last half century. Scientists have even warned us that we have seen record temperatures over the past decade, meaning the average temperature in the United States could rise by up to nine degrees. (NDRC) One of the main results of global warming that I have noticed while living in Florida is that it is making hurricanes stronger and more dangerous. Every year Florida is hit by hurricanes and tropical storms, but in the last five years the damage has really increased. There was a lot of damage to my house and neighborhood. As a Florida resident, I have to take more precautions when these storms hit, because I never know how strong they can get. Our roof blew in, there was flood damage, and trees fell into our house. Global warming makes ocean water warmer, which makes storms much more powerful. They can easily go from a Category 2 storm to a Category 4. Once again, there was a lot of damage to my home and neighborhood. (NDRC) Another frightening effect of global warming is rising sea levels. Scientists have found that this could eventually lead to coastal flooding. Areas of the United States that could be severely affected include the entire East Coast, areas of the Gulf of Mexico, and nearly all of Florida.