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El Niño-related wave headed to SoCal could bring dangerously high sea levels
ABC7 Los Angeles • • nation
Key Points:
- A Kelvin wave originating in the Western Equatorial Pacific Ocean is currently moving along the coast of Mexico and is expected to reach Southern California by early October.
- Kelvin waves contribute to El Niño by driving significant warming in the Eastern Equatorial Pacific and can raise sea levels by 6 to 12 inches above normal.
- Elevated sea levels caused by the Kelvin wave may persist for three to six months, increasing the risk of coastal flooding and inundation, especially during storms or high tides.
- As El Niño continues to strengthen, scientists warn that stronger storms combined with higher sea levels could lead to dangerous conditions for California's coastline in the upcoming fall and winter seasons.
- Although the Kelvin wave itself is not directly noticeable to swimmers or boaters, its impact on sea levels could exacerbate coastal hazards when it arrives in early October.
