The scenario that best illustrates a potential long-term economic impact on coastal communities due to rising sea levels and altered weather patterns is:
3) A decline in local fisheries due to changes in species distribution and habitat loss, leading to job losses in fishing communities.
This scenario directly relates to the negative consequences of climate change on marine ecosystems, which can significantly impact local economies that rely on fishing. Altered weather patterns and rising sea levels can disrupt habitats, cause species to migrate to different areas, and reduce fish populations, consequently impacting the livelihoods of those dependent on fisheries. This scenario highlights the vulnerability of coastal communities to the adverse effects of climate change.