the result of this that the pace of warming is also increasing. There are several reasons for this. More of the sun's energy is retained in the atmosphere, and melting snow and ice means that less of the sun's heat is reflected away. In addition, as frozen ground in the far north warms, methane gas is released, and methane is an even stronger greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. In we do not this process, the forecast is frightening. Ice fields in the far north and on high mountains will melt, and the sea level will rise. Low-lying countries such as Bangladesh will struggle with floods, and some island nations might ultimately disappear. Researchers also predict that regional rainfall patterns will change and many areas of the world will become very dry. There will not be enough rainfall to yield enough food. This may lead to massive political and social problems in these areas. We might soon see "climate refugees"as people have to move from their homes to find food.